Pet-friendly travel grows as fall tourism booms
More travelers pack leashes alongside their luggage this fall as pet-friendly trips expand. With the global pet travel services market expected to grow by about 9% each year from 2025 to 2030, more destinations are adapting to meet the demand. Hotels and farms are responding with tailored experiences, from outdoor activities and pet-friendly patios to special packages that treat animals as valued guests.
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Dog beds, treats and walking maps are now part of accommodation packages. Some properties even use part of their proceeds to assist nearby animal shelters, while wineries open outdoor areas so guests can enjoy tastings while their leashed pets relax nearby.
Americans take pets on the road
More than 66% of households in the United States, or about 90 million homes, now include at least one animal companion. Millennials account for the largest share of owners and are the most likely to view their pets as part of the family, influencing where and how they travel.
Researchers estimate that the global pet travel services market, valued at about $2.4 billion in 2024, will reach $3.9 billion by 2030. This growth comes from rising pet adoption, wider hotel and transport access for animals and renewed enthusiasm for travel after the pandemic years. These factors are turning pet-friendly trips into one of the most noticeable shifts in fall tourism.
Trips reach new distances
Last year, most pet owners chose to stay close to home when traveling with their animals. Domestic trips made up about 77% of the pet travel market, driven by lower costs, simpler requirements and shorter transit time. Local getaways offered flexibility, with road trips and short flights proving easier on both pets and owners.
International pet travel, however, is starting to catch up. Analysts expect it to grow by about 9.5% each year from 2025 to 2030 as border rules, pet passports and airline services make overseas travel easier. More destinations now welcome pets, and owners are better informed about international care, from veterinary access to boarding options. These improvements are helping pet owners extend their plans beyond domestic borders.
Fall outings go pet-friendly
More fall attractions now welcome travelers and their pets as seasonal tourism expands. Orchards and pumpkin patches now allow leashed dogs, letting owners bring their pets along for classic autumn outings. In California, Pa’s Pumpkin Patch admits well-behaved dogs of non-aggressive breeds, and in New Jersey, Working Dog Winery lets visitors enjoy tastings with their pets on the lawn. Farms are also embracing the season by hosting dog days and pet-friendly harvest festivals that make fall celebrations more inclusive for animal lovers.
Lodgings expand pet amenities
Hotels are expanding their pet offerings as travelers look for getaways that include their animals. Many properties now feature dedicated pet packages with essentials like dog beds, treats, walking maps and in-room amenities to make stays more comfortable. Some even offer concierge services or guided walks to help guests explore nearby parks and trails.
In Los Angeles, Kimpton Hotel Palomar welcomes pets of all sizes and breeds with no fees or deposits. Guests receive water bowls, courtesy bags for walks and access to a nightly wine reception where pets are invited to join.
In Florida, The Alfond Inn’s V.I.P. Very Important Pup Package includes a two-night stay, a portable bowl, a gourmet barkuterie board, a plush toy and a donation made in the pet’s name to a local animal shelter. These added touches make travel more convenient for pet owners and turn hotel stays into fuller experiences for both owners and their companions.
Scenic road trips and foliage routes
Fall road trips have become a favorite for pet owners who don’t want to leave their animals behind. The Blue Ridge Parkway, which stretches through North Carolina and Virginia, offers hundreds of miles of scenic roads and trails with sweeping mountain views. Many of its hiking paths welcome dogs, giving travelers a chance to stop and explore.
In Maine, Acadia National Park stands out as one of the country’s most pet-friendly destinations, with leashed dogs allowed on trails and carriage roads. The park’s rocky shoreline and fall colors make it an ideal stop for those combining outdoor adventure with pet-friendly travel.
Pet adventures need extra steps
Even as pet-friendly travel expands, owners still face a few hurdles. Not all hotels, restaurants or attractions allow animals, and some accommodations add cleaning fees or limit the number, size or breed of pets per room. Airlines and trains also have carrier and weight restrictions that can complicate trips, while long delays or extreme temperatures may pose safety risks during transit.
Planning ahead helps avoid setbacks, especially when travel rules call for vaccination papers, microchips or vet clearances before departure. Pets can also feel stressed in unfamiliar settings or around large crowds, which means extra attention and preparation are essential. Some policies exclude pet-related damage or emergencies, leaving owners to handle unexpected costs on their own.
Destinations open doors to pets
More travelers are bringing their pets along as fall tourism grows across the country. Hotels, farms and parks now add pet-friendly amenities and open spaces that make trips easier. With better access and rising demand, pet travel has become a familiar part of how people plan their getaways.
Jennifer Allen is a retired chef turned traveler, cookbook author and nationally syndicated journalist; she’s also a co-founder of Food Drink Life, where she shares expert travel tips, cruise insights and luxury destination guides. A recognized cruise expert with a deep passion for high-end experiences and off-the-beaten-path destinations, Jennifer explores the world with curiosity, depth and a storyteller’s perspective. Her articles are regularly featured on the Associated Press Wire, The Washington Post, Seattle Times, MSN and more.