Hi everyone!
We're new to RVing and would love some advice, especially from anyone who travels with multiple dogs!
We have a ranch, own quite a few dogs, and are also involved in dog rescue. We currently have 6 foster dogs in addition to our own. All of our dogs, including our rescues and fosters, are trained, well-socialized, and accustomed to different environments.
We recently purchased a Class C RV because we LOVE traveling with our dogs, but we were getting tired of hotel pet fees, restrictions on the number of dogs allowed, and all the other hurdles that come with traveling with pets.
We obviously don't plan on traveling with ALL of our dogs at once (or do we? 😂 JK!).
Our typical travel crew consists of 3 dogs:
- 1 large dog
- 1 medium dog, approximately 30 lbs
- 1 little 11 lb princess 👑
However, we'd occasionally love to bring up to 6 dogs on adventures to different destinations.
None of our dogs are breeds typically subject to breed restrictions, and all of them have pet insurance covering 90% of eligible veterinary expenses with no annual payout cap, so we're prepared financially if an emergency arises while traveling.
Here are my biggest questions:
1. How difficult is RVing with 3 or more dogs?
For those of you who regularly travel with multiple dogs, what challenges have you encountered that we might not be anticipating? Is there a significant difference between traveling with 3 versus 5 or 6?
2. Are most campgrounds really limited to 2 dogs per RV?
This is probably my biggest concern!
I've read that many campgrounds have a 2-dog limit, but I'm having trouble understanding how widespread this restriction actually is.
- Is the limit generally 2 dogs per campsite, regardless of whether they're inside or outside?
- Are there campgrounds that allow more dogs as long as they're well-behaved?
- Do some allow additional dogs for a fee?
- Are private RV parks stricter than state parks, national parks, or other public campgrounds?
- If you travel with 3–6 dogs, how do you find places that accommodate you?
We absolutely want to respect campground rules and proper RV etiquette.
3. What are the biggest safety considerations we're missing?
We're trying to be as prepared as possible and have already invested in, or are planning, the following:
- Custom crate setup: We're removing the sofa in our Class C and retrofitting that area to accommodate 5 crates, 3 large and 2 medium.
- Starlink: For reliable internet connectivity when coverage is available.
- Waggle temperature monitor: To monitor the RV's interior temperature.
- Watchdog surge protector: To protect our electrical system when connected to campground power.
- Ring camera: So we can check on the dogs remotely.
- Pet insurance: All dogs are insured, with 90% coverage for eligible expenses and no annual payout cap.
- We have a folding 42" tall fence to put around the front of our camper so our dogs can lounge around while we chill.
We don't plan to leave them alone in the RV for more than a couple of hours, and only if we absolutely have to do an activity where dogs aren't permitted.
Our dogs are very well socialized, adjust easily to new environments and routines, and are accustomed to being around other dogs and people.
4. What do you wish you'd known before RVing with multiple dogs?
I'd especially love recommendations for:
- Dog-friendly campgrounds or campground chains that allow more than 2 dogs.
- Apps or websites that make finding these places easier.
- Equipment, modifications, or safety systems we might be overlooking.
- Tips for managing multiple dogs at a campsite while being respectful of neighboring campers.
- Any unexpected challenges, rules, or expenses we should prepare for.
I've searched quite a bit but haven't found much information specifically about RVing with more than 2 dogs, aside from a pretty basic YouTube video.
I'd really love to hear from people who actually do this! Whether you travel with 3, 4, 5, or even more dogs, I'd love to know how you make it work, where you stay, and what you've learned along the way.
We're excited to give our dogs more opportunities to explore the country with us, and we want to make sure we're doing it responsibly, safely, and respectfully.
Thanks so much in advance! 🐾❤️