Leaving your dog behind in a kennel while you jet off on holiday is never easy. The packing guilt, the anxious look as the suitcases come out, and the constant worrying while you are away can take the shine right off your trip.
But what if you didn’t have to leave them?
Taking dogs to Europe in a motorhome is one of the fastest-growing travel trends for UK pet owners, and for good reason. It offers the absolute freedom of the open road without sacrificing the comfort of home. When you opt for pet friendly motorhome hire in the UK, you unlock a seamless way to travel across the Channel where your four-legged family member is the co-pilot. From the vast beaches of Normandy to the crisp mountain air of the Black Forest, a luxury motorhome gives you the flexibility to explore Europe at your own pace, all year round.
Why a Luxury Motorhome is the Best Way to Travel with Your Dog
When planning a trip abroad with a pet, traditional travel presents massive hurdles. Airlines impose strict, stressful regulations on pets in cargo, and finding multiple dog-friendly hotels across different European cities can quickly become a booking nightmare.
Choosing a dog friendly motorhome rental completely eliminates these friction points.
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A Home on Wheels: Dogs are creatures of habit. A motorhome provides a stable, familiar environment that travels with you. No matter which country you park in tonight, your dog goes to sleep in the exact same spot, with their own bed, toys, and routine intact. This significantly reduces travel anxiety.
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Space to Relax: Unlike a cramped car boot, our premium motorhomes offer plenty of floor space for your dog to stretch out comfortably safely on the move or while you are parked up.
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All-Weather Comfort: At Priory Rentals, our entire fleet is equipped for year-round adventures. High-spec insulation, central heating, and modern climate controls mean that whether you are escaping for a crisp autumn road trip or a mid-summer expedition, your dog will remain safe, cool, and comfortable inside.
Essential Paperwork to Get Your Dog from the UK to Europe
The rules for travelling to the continent with your pet have changed significantly. Crucially, the regulations tightened further in April 2026: EU pet passports held by GB residents are no longer valid travel documents for entering the EU from Great Britain.
To guarantee a smooth journey across the border, you must secure an animal health certificate (AHC) for your dog before you depart. Here is what the current compliance checklist looks like:
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Microchipping: Your dog must be microchipped, and the chip number must be recorded on all documentation.
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Rabies Vaccination: Your dog must be vaccinated against rabies. If it is a primary vaccination, you must wait at least 21 days after the jab before your AHC can be signed or before you can travel.
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The 10-Day Window: Your AHC must be issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV) within 10 days of your departure date. Once you enter the EU, this certificate is valid for up to 4 months of onward travel and your eventual return to the UK.
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The Return Journey Tapeworm Treatment: Before you cross back into Great Britain, your dog must receive an approved tapeworm treatment administered by an EU vet. This must be given and officially stamped in your paperwork no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (1 to 5 days) before you arrive at the UK border.
Smooth Crossings: Ferries and the Eurotunnel with Pets
Getting across the English Channel with a large vehicle and a pet is incredibly straightforward, provided you choose the right route for your dog’s personality.
The Eurotunnel Le Shuttle remains the most popular choice for motorhome travellers with pets. The journey from Folkestone to Calais takes just 35 minutes, and the biggest benefit is that your dog stays right by your side inside the comfort of the motorhome for the entire transit. You simply drive on, park up, stretch your legs within your living space, and drive off in France.
If you prefer a European motorhome rental from the UK that includes a classic sea crossing, major ferry operators like P&O and DFDS offer excellent pet facilities. While traditional routes required pets to remain in the vehicle on the car deck, many modern ships now feature designated pet-friendly lounges or private pet cabins that you can book in advance.
Whichever route you take, always allow an extra 30 to 45 minutes to go through the dedicated Pet Reception at the terminal before boarding to have your dog’s microchip and AHC scanned.
Packing Checklist for Your Four-Legged Co-Pilot
Travelling in a luxury motorhome means you don’t have to pack light, but keeping your pet organized makes life on the road effortless. Beyond the standard lead and poop bags, ensure your packing list includes:
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Crash-Tested Travel Restraints: Safety is paramount while driving. Your dog must be safely secured using a heavy-duty, crash-tested harness attached to the motorhome’s seatbelt points, or placed in a secure, well-ventilated travel crate in the living area.
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Familiar Food and Water Logistics: Switching your dog’s diet while abroad can cause unexpected stomach upsets. Pack enough of their regular food for the entire duration of the trip. Collapsible bowls are excellent for space-saving inside the camper kitchen.
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A Long Tie-Out Stake: When you are relaxing at a scenic continental campsite, a long tie-out cable allows your dog the freedom to lounge outside on the grass right next to your motorhome awning without wandering off.
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Pet First Aid Kit: Pack tick-removal tools, paw balm for rough terrain, dog-safe antiseptic spray, and any regular prescription medications they require.
Top Dog-Friendly Regions in Europe to Explore
Europe is famously accommodating to dogs. In many continental countries, it is entirely normal to see dogs sitting politely under tables in high-end restaurants, riding public transit, or joining their owners in local shops. If you are looking for destination inspiration for your rental, consider these brilliant regions:
Brittany & Normandy, France
Just a short drive from the Calais ferry terminals, northern France is a paradise for dogs. The region boasts miles of wide, uncrowded sandy beaches, dramatic coastal walking paths, and historic towns where local bistros will gladly bring out a fresh bowl of water for your pup before they serve your dinner.
The Black Forest, Germany
If your dog loves forest hikes and cooler mountain air, point your motorhome toward southwest Germany. The Black Forest offers thousands of miles of densely wooded, well-mapped walking trails, beautiful clear lakes, and brilliant, highly regulated motorhome campsites (Stellplätze) that cater directly to pet owners.
The Belgian Ardennes
Perfect for an active holiday, the rolling hills and winding rivers of the Ardennes offer endless opportunities for forest tracking and river swimming. It is a highly accessible stopover region if you plan to journey deeper into Europe.
Book Your Pet-Friendly European Adventure with Priory Rentals
The open road is calling, and you don’t have to leave your best friend behind to answer it. At Priory Rentals, we take pride in maintaining a premium, meticulously cleaned selection of vehicles within our dedicated pet friendly fleet.
Our hiring packages are designed for stress-free international travel, coming fully equipped with comprehensive European insurance cover and unlimited mileage. Whether you are planning a summer coastal cruise or a cosy off-season winter retreat, we have the perfect 4-berth and 6-berth models to accommodate your entire family – two legs and four.
Check availability online today or speak with our team to secure your luxury home on wheels for your next European tour.
