Fresh stats show a growing demand for travel experiences that welcome pets. According to Allianz Partners USA’s 2024 Annual Vacation Confidence Index, more than 40% of US travelers aged 34–54 plan to bring their pets on their next trip, and 24% of those over 55 will do the same.
In the UK, many travel companies have noticed a jump in pet-friendly bookings over the last few years. Paws & Stay, a site specializing in dog-friendly stays, has seen bookings shoot up by 125% since 2023. Meanwhile, Haven, which operates 38 UK holiday parks, reported a nearly 15% rise in demand for pet-friendly getaways during the same period. A 2024 study from the University of Surrey predicts the dog-friendly travel market could hit nearly £40bn by 2030.
Why the surge?
The pandemic played a big role, with more people adopting pets due to remote work. In the UK, 38% of people have brought home a new pet since 2020—3.2 million households did so just in the first year of the pandemic. Since pet sitters can cost over £50 a night—and with high demand making them harder to book—taking your pet along has become a more budget-friendly option.
How are hotels adapting?
The hospitality industry has fully embraced the trend. These days, spotting dogs (and even the occasional cat) at hotel check-ins is no surprise. Take Kimpton, for example—their hotels welcome almost any animal, as long as it fits in the elevator. They even provide a special dog menu, branded bowls, and a guide to nearby pet-friendly spots.
UK-based Devonshire Hotels gives dogs their own four-poster beds, while Somerset’s Homewood Hotel near Bath offers an on-site dog creche for guests who want spa time without leaving their pets alone. Agility courses and secure walking fields are also popping up at dog-friendly hotels. For self-catering stays, properties are drawing in pet owners with a major perk: fenced gardens. Paws & Stay says 70% of their 2024 bookings were for places with enclosed outdoor spaces.
What about other parts of the travel industry?
Hotels aren’t the only ones cashing in on the “puppy pound.” Places like London’s Tower Bridge and Cotswold Wildlife Park now welcome dogs. Last year, Cruise Tails announced the world’s first dog-friendly cruise, setting sail from Florida in November with room for 2,650 passengers—and 250 dogs.
Can you fly with pets?
In the UK, only assistance dogs can travel in the cabin; other pets go in the hold. In the US and Europe, small pets usually ride in a carrier under the seat, while larger ones go below. There’s also extra paperwork and a health check involved.
Some companies are tackling these challenges with private charters. “People want to travel with their dogs, but airlines have tightened restrictions,” says Mike Novotny of Bark Air, which flies between cities like New York and London. “We ensure dogs travel with dignity—no cargo, no cramped spaces.” That luxury comes at a steep price, though: around $8,000 (£6,300) per person with a dog.
Trains are a more affordable option in Europe. Pets ride free on UK trains and at a discount on many continental routes. For a small fee, they can even join you in sleeper cabins on trips from London to Cornwall or Scotland.
Any tips for traveling with pets?
“Research and plan ahead,” advises TV dog behaviorist Adem Fehmi. “Where will your dog sleep? Some places don’t allow pets on beds, so prepare for that or find alternatives.” He also recommends bringing familiar items—like their bed, toys, and bowl—to help them feel at ease.