How to Find Pet Friendly Hotels While Traveling

Traveling with a pet can be rewarding, but it requires extra planning — especially when it comes to booking accommodations. Not every hotel is pet friendly, and even those that are may have restrictions, fees, or limited space. Here's how to confidently find hotels that welcome your four-legged companion, without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Start with the Right Search Platforms

Begin your hotel hunt using platforms that specialize in or support pet-friendly filtering:

- Booking.com and Expedia both allow you to filter by pet friendly accommodations.
- BringFido is a dedicated site and app for pet travelers that includes user reviews, fees, and breed restrictions.
- Google Hotels now has a pet-friendly filter as well.
- Airbnb lets you check a "pets allowed" option, but be sure to read the house rules carefully.

Pro tip: Use multiple platforms to compare results. Some hotels only list their pet policies on their own websites, not third-party platforms.

Use Filters That Actually Work

Not all filters are equal. Some platforms allow you to check “pet friendly” but don’t clarify what kind of pets, how many, or any added fees. Look for listings with clearly stated:

- Pet weight limits
- Number of pets allowed per room
- Breed restrictions (especially for dogs)
- Nightly pet fees or cleaning charges
- On-leash rules for property areas

If those details aren’t visible, always click through to the hotel’s official website or contact them directly.

Call Ahead for Specific Pet Policies

Even if a hotel says it’s pet friendly, that doesn’t mean all pets are treated equally. Call ahead and ask:

- Are there extra cleaning fees or refundable deposits?
- Is there a pet size or breed restriction?
- Can pets be left unattended in the room?
- Are there designated relief areas or nearby parks?

Speaking directly with hotel staff also allows you to build rapport, which can help in case of special requests.

Understand Common Pet Fees and Restrictions

Pet policies can vary widely. Here’s what to watch for:

- Flat Rate Fees: A one-time charge per stay, often around 50 to 100 dollars.
- Per Night Fees: Charged nightly, this can add up quickly over a multi-day trip.
- Refundable Deposits: Some hotels require a security deposit to cover damages.
- Cleaning Surcharges: These are occasionally added after checkout if the room requires deep cleaning.

Always ask what the fee includes. Some hotels may waive charges for service animals or repeat customers.

Look for Pet-Friendly Amenities

The best pet-friendly hotels go beyond just allowing animals — they cater to them. Look for places that offer:

- Designated pet play or relief areas
- Welcome treats or pet beds
- On-site dog walking services
- Maps to nearby parks or trails
- Ground floor access for easy outdoor entry

Luxury chains like Kimpton Hotels and select Loews properties even offer room service pet menus and grooming services.

Final Tips for a Smooth Stay

Here are a few final considerations to ensure you and your pet have a stress-free trip:

- Bring your own pet bedding, bowls, and food to avoid stomach issues or allergies.
- Keep your pet’s medical records on hand, especially if you’re crossing state or country lines.
- Don’t leave your pet unattended unless explicitly allowed by the hotel.
- Use a crate or carrier when left alone to prevent damage or stress.
- Be respectful of other guests. Clean up after your pet and avoid excessive barking or noise.

Finding pet friendly hotels takes a little extra effort, but with the right tools and mindset, it’s completely doable. From national hotel chains to boutique stays and vacation rentals, the options for pet travelers are more diverse than ever.

Plan ahead, ask questions, and choose accommodations that value your pet as much as you do. A little planning can turn your trip from stressful to seamless — for both you and your furry travel buddy.