Travelling with Your Pet? Tips for a Safe and Comfy Trip
Travelling with your pet in and within Australia takes more thought than most expect. Long drives through regional Victoria and sudden weather changes can throw routines off quickly. The pet travel tips we have discussed below are based on what works, especially when trying to keep your animal settled and safe during long trips.
While pet policies vary across states, the biggest shift often comes with how transport providers handle crates, medical records, and boarding. Getting familiar with these requirements early is best to avoid delays, especially during busy weekends or holidays.
Get ready: What do you do before you travel with your pet?
Early preparation makes the biggest difference when travelling with animals, especially when crossing regional or interstate lines. You'll want to ensure your pet is packed for and fully prepared to move safely.
Start with a vet visit and health check
It's worth booking a vet visit before your trip, especially if you'll be on the road for more than a day. Always confirm that your pet's vaccination records are current. You should also check to ensure that parasite prevention, including flea and tick protection, is in place. If heading far from your region, especially overseas, ask about your rabies shot schedule.
Make sure your pet has an ID and a microchip
A collar helps, but it's not enough if your pet goes missing during travel. Ensure your animal is microchipped with current contact details. If you're flying, check that the chip meets ISO microchip standards. Note that some destinations may also require a pet passport before boarding.
Sort out the paperwork early
Travel paperwork can take time, so it helps to prepare documents early. Ensure you organise your health certificates and confirm import or export permits where required. If quarantine is expected, secure a quarantine booking early. You should also consider having up-to-date pet travel insurance, which helps cover surprise expenses like emergency vet visits.
Help your pet get used to travelling
If a crate is part of your setup, ensure it meets IATA crate guidelines. For first-timers, introduce the carrier a couple of months or weeks before the travel as part of crate training. Add soft bedding with adequate padding thickness, and use odour-neutral liners for longer trips. You should also ask your vet about anti-anxiety medication if your pet struggles with noise or motion.
Travelling around Australia with your pet
Moving around Australia with a pet adds another layer to your travel plans. If you're arriving from Melbourne, regional NSW, or interstate, a few planning steps make travelling into Bendigo with your pet much easier.
Flying with pets on domestic flights
Each airline has different rules for animals in transit. Pets travelling as checked baggage must meet strict airline rules on carrier size and pressurised cabin handling. Most in-cabin pets must be within the allowed weight threshold and should stay inside a soft crate. Always check the airline pet policy, including any weight restriction (usually ≤20 lbs/9 kg) before booking.
Road trips with pets: safe and comfy car travel
Unrestrained pets can cause trouble in cars. Many pet owners now use a pet car harness or dog seat belt to restrain their pets. A crash-tested crate is another option, especially for longer drives. You should also have a first-aid kit for pets and keep an emergency vet locator or 24/7 vet hotline on hand.
As you travel toward Bendigo, note that nearby towns such as Castlemaine and Heathcote also have reliable vet clinics. Having those numbers saved in advance can make a big difference during a late-night emergency or roadside stop. Consider doing a thorough research of nearby vets before your visit, that way, you know what to expect.
Heading overseas? International pet travel tips
Bringing your pet into Australia takes more than paperwork. If you're travelling to Bendigo or planning a stop in this historic town, getting the travel process right from the start makes everything manageable.
Know the rules for flying into or out of Australia
Direct flights into Victoria often simplify pet arrivals, as EU layovers can complicate timing and paperwork. Pets that arrive as air cargo must follow national entry procedures. These include strict routes and designated stops like Melbourne quarantine. You want to review your rabies shot schedule well in advance, as some countries require confirmation before departure.
What to expect with quarantine and arrival
When pets arrive in Australia, they undergo routine checks, regardless of breed, age, or origin. You should have your health certificates ready and ensure all parasite prevention measures are up to date. A quarantine booking is usually required before arrival, and most stays last a minimum of 10 days.
Consider a pet travel pro for big trips
Many travellers use pet relocation services for support during long or multi-leg trips. A licensed pet relocation company helps manage complex routes and timing. Many also handle crate compliance, booking support, and pet travel insurance. This can take the pressure off, especially if you are new to Australia or travelling with a pet for the first time.
Quick recap: Pet travel tips by transport type
No matter how you reach Bendigo, travelling with your four-legged friend means planning early and knowing what your mode of transport requires. Here's a fast breakdown of what to expect as you plan to travel with a pet.
| Mode | Setup Essentials | Health and Documents | Support to Consider |
| Air - Domestic | IATA crate, soft carrier, 9 kg weight limit | Airline policy, booking confirmation | Local vet for prep and sedation advice |
| Road - Car | Seat harness, crate, window shade | Vet access plan, first-aid kit for pets | 24/7 vet hotline, nearby clinics |
| Air - International | Cargo booking, approved crate, direct routing | Quarantine booking, vaccine records | Licensed relocation provider |
Travelling with your pet? Stay comfortably at Bendigo Signature Accommodation
Looking for reliable, Bendigo pet-friendly accommodation? Bendigo Signature Accommodation designed with pets offers quiet locations, fenced yards, and nearby parks for everyday comfort. Whether you're looking for Bendigo short-term accommodation or planning a longer stay, our fully equipped homes cater to all needs:
Hargreaves Street: Spacious, central – perfect for families or groups.
Honeysuckle: Private, ideal for couples or small families.
Loddon Retreat: Peaceful, spacious – great for longer stays.
All of our properties are pet-friendly (dogs and cats welcome). Explore our accommodation options and book your stay today!
