We’re all feeling the crunch with the economy slugging along. High fuel and food prices make us evaluate where we can save money. If you like taking a pet on the road with you for company, there’s no need to sacrifice taking them along to try and save money. There’s a lot you can do to save a buck when on the road with your companion. It all comes down to preparation!
Here are the top 5 money saving tips when on the road with your pet. 
- Make a Pet Packing List & Pack Early: Discovering you left behind your pet’s medication, favorite toy, dog food, pet bed or leash will cost you! Be sure to prepare a list of all the items to pack for your pet and pack them early! Buying these things while on the road will cost you more in money, time, and fuel. It certainly pays to be prepared.
- Find Hotels Where Pets Stay for Free: Hotel pet fees can range from about $10 to $50+ per night. The key is finding hotels that don’t charge pet fees. There are a lot of pet friendly hotels where you, your pet, and your truck will be welcome and won’t cost you an arm and a leg. You’ll save a big chunk of change if you stay at these hotels where pets stay FREE - Motel 6, La Quinta Inns & Suites, Red Roof Inn, Drury Hotels, and Kimpton Hotels. Double check on hotel4truckers.com to make sure the location you want to stay at is indeed pet and trucker friendly as it can vary from location to location.
- Book Pet Friendly Hotels Early: If possible, determine where and when you’ll need pet friendly accommodations before you head out on the road. Booking early allows you to shop around for the best rates and find a deal on pet friendly hotels & accommodations. Early preparation will reduce the chance of unexpected expenses.
- Take Care of Hotel Room AND Truck: Even if you’re staying at a pet friendly hotel where pets stay free, if Fido or Fluffy do any damage, you are responsible to pay for damages. The most well behaved pets can act out when in a strange environment. It is recommended that you do not leave your pet unattended in a hotel room. If you must, don’t be gone long and be sure your pet is crated. You can also turn on the TV for some comfort sound. If the hotel does not allow you to leave your pet unattended in your room, don’t do it. If you are driving a leased truck, many carriers require a deposit if you bring a pet on the road. Clean up after your pet to avoid losing your deposit. If you don’t already have one, an inexpensive seat cover is a good idea to protect the cab seats.
- Pet Vehicle Safety: In your desire to save money, don’t skimp on the safety of your pet. It doesn’t cost much to keep your pet safe and secured when on the road. Pet road injuries happen more often than people think. Dogs who stick their heads out the window often times get debris and stones kicked up into their eyes and face which can cause serious injuries and costly vet bills. Pets should be properly secured while on the road with you. Pets can easily be injured by sliding off the seat from a fast stop…or much, much, worse. There are many economical options to secure your pet in the truck - pet travel carriers, pet seats, vehicle pet barriers, and pet seat belts. Members of Team Run Smart get 10% off at the TWP Pet Travel Store. Go to the Member Deals page on Team Run Smart to get the coupon code for this special offer.
Take the time to properly prepare and plan for your pet to be on the road with you, it will indeed save you money! Drive safe for you and your pet.