Traveling in a pack: the logistical challenge
In France, one in five households with a dog has at least two. Going from traveling with one dog to traveling with two or three means changing dimension. Transportation, accommodation, budget, daily management — everything must be rethought and multiplied. With rigorous organization, it's multiplied happiness.
Multi-dog transport
| Transport | Max dogs | Cost per dog | Practical notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car | 2-4 depending size | 0 € (shared fuel) | Most flexible. Gate + crates. SUV recommended from 2 large dogs. |
| Train (SNCF) | 2 per traveler | 7 € (<6 kg) / 50% (>6 kg) | 3 dogs = 2 adults minimum. Muzzle >6 kg. |
| Plane | 1-2 depending airline | 40-200 € | Very restrictive. Often 1 animal per passenger in cabin. |
| Van / RV | 3-5+ | 0 € (included) | Multi-dog queen solution. Space + sleeping + storage. |
Organizing a trip with 2+ dogs
Most accommodations accept 1-2 dogs. Always call beforehand. Rural lodges and campsites are more flexible. Some specialized lodges accept up to 5 dogs.
Two connecting rooms or two adjacent camping spots. Private rentals (Airbnb, Abritel) offer more flexibility — negotiate directly.
Each dog has its space: individual crate, gate or separate harness. Never leave two dogs free together in a trunk. SUV or wagon minimum for 2 large dogs.
Each dog has its bowl, leash, identified collar. Plan a dedicated bag per dog to avoid mixing treatments, kibble and toys.
Alternate: one adult goes out with 1-2 dogs while the other stays. For group walks, use a coupler (double leash). Avoid very crowded places with 3+ dogs.
The budget increases linearly: accommodation surcharge × N, train tickets × N, insurance × N. Plan 200-300 € emergency per dog. Travel with 3 dogs = +50-80% cost.
- Maximum 2 animals per traveler — 3 dogs = 2 adults minimum.
- Each animal pays its ticket — <6 kg: 7 € in closed bag. >6 kg: 50% of full 2nd class fare, muzzle + leash.
- Not side by side with other travelers' animals — Plan seats in square or spaced out.
- Reservation recommended — TGV bike space sometimes offers more room.
- TER alternative — More space, no mandatory reservation, frequent stops.
Multi-dog kit
Car and hotel room exacerbate tensions. Physically separate dogs (individual crates, separate blankets). Respect pack hierarchy: feed the dominant first. If two dogs don't get along, block visual contact and take separate breaks.
Traveling with several dogs means multiplying logistics — but also multiplying happiness.
— Family with 3 Australian shepherds, confirmed road-trippersMulti-dog departure checklist
For transport, our car guide details safety devices. For accommodation, our accommodations guide lists the most flexible. And our budget calculator helps anticipate multiplied costs.
Frequently asked questions
Can you book a hotel with 3 dogs?
Rare but possible. Most limit to 1-2. Lodges, rentals and campsites are more flexible. On Airbnb, contact the owner directly. Tip: two connecting rooms.
Do you need insurance per dog?
Yes, each dog must have its own insurance or liability. Some mutuals offer degressive rates (2nd dog -10%, 3rd -15%).
Does camping accept a pack?
Campsites are most tolerant. 2 dogs: no problem. 3: often tolerated. Beyond: case by case. Farm campsites and natural areas are most flexible.
Two dogs who don't get along in the car?
Physical separation: one in crate in trunk, other in harness on back seat. Block visual contact. Separate breaks. In accommodation, distinct zones per dog.
