Weekend Away With Your Toller: The Complete Packing Checklist
A weekend away with your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever can be a fantastic opportunity to explore somewhere new together.
You might be heading to a dog-friendly cabin, visiting family, exploring a new part of the countryside or planning a few days of walking.
But travelling with a dog requires a little more preparation than simply throwing a bag into the car and setting off.
You need to think about your dog's routine, the destination, travel arrangements and the essentials that will help them settle somewhere unfamiliar.
Here's how to prepare for a comfortable weekend away.
1. Confirm That Your Accommodation Welcomes Dogs
Before packing, check the accommodation's dog policy.
Some places allow dogs in every room, while others have restrictions on size, number or access to shared spaces.
Find out whether you need to bring anything specific and whether there are additional cleaning requirements.
Also check the surrounding area.
Are there suitable walking routes nearby? Are dogs permitted in local parks or on the beach? Is there a secure outdoor space, if that's important for your plans?
Knowing the answers in advance will help you choose activities that work for everyone.
2. Keep Your Dog's Routine Familiar
Travel can introduce plenty of changes.
Your Toller may be sleeping somewhere new, hearing unfamiliar noises and exploring different surroundings.
Keeping parts of the usual routine can help make the transition easier.
Try to maintain familiar meal times, provide suitable opportunities for rest and avoid packing the schedule with too many activities.
Bring any familiar items that help your dog settle, provided they're practical for the trip.
For a puppy or a dog that finds unfamiliar environments difficult, plan a gentler itinerary and allow additional time to adjust.
3. Pack Food and Feeding Equipment
Bring enough of your dog's usual food for the entire trip, plus a little extra in case plans change.
Depending on your arrangements, you may also need:
- Food containers.
- A suitable bowl.
- A water bowl.
- Treats.
- Medication.
- Instructions for any care requirements.
Avoid changing your dog's diet just because you're away unless there's a specific reason to do so.
Familiar food and routines can help keep the trip straightforward.
4. Bring the Right Walking Equipment
Your destination will influence what you need.
For most trips, consider:
- A suitable lead.
- A collar or harness.
- Poo bags.
- Water and a bowl.
- A towel.
- Appropriate weather protection.
- Any equipment required for your planned activities.
If you're visiting somewhere with unfamiliar wildlife, livestock or road traffic, make sure your walking arrangements are appropriate.
Don't assume that your dog can safely be off lead just because a route looks quiet.
5. Plan for Wet Weather
Autumn weekends can bring rain, mud and damp walking routes.
Pack clothing for yourself and bring a towel for your dog.
You may also want a separate bag or container for muddy items.
Keeping wet towels and dirty equipment apart from clean clothing makes unpacking easier when you arrive home.
6. Prepare for the Journey
Before setting off, plan how your dog will travel safely.
Use an appropriate vehicle restraint or travel setup, and ensure your dog has enough space to remain comfortable.
For longer journeys, consider suitable breaks and check the route for convenient places to stop.
Never leave your dog unattended in a vehicle when temperatures or conditions could become unsafe.
If your Toller is not used to long journeys, build up their experience gradually rather than assuming they'll be comfortable with several hours of travel.
7. Organise Your Personal Travel Essentials
When you're away with your dog, it's easy for your belongings to become mixed with walking equipment, towels and treats.
Keep your personal items together so you can find what you need quickly.
A tote can be useful for carrying:
- Your phone and wallet.
- A water bottle.
- Snacks.
- A book or notebook.
- A spare layer.
- Small personal essentials.
The Toller Club Tote Bag is an everyday option for organising your own belongings.
If you want something with a more distinctive design, the Three Tollers Tote Bag is another option.
Use separate containers for food, wet towels and dirty equipment. A standard tote shouldn't be treated as waterproof storage.
8. Choose Practical Clothing for the Trip
Your clothing should suit the destination and activities.
If you're planning outdoor walks, comfortable footwear and layers are more important than dressing for photographs alone.
For everyday wear, the Toller Retriever Cap (Black) offers a classic breed-inspired style.
The NSDTR Cap (Blue) is another option for owners who want to celebrate their Toller while travelling.
Remember that caps are accessories, not replacements for suitable rainwear or cold-weather clothing.
9. Plan Activities Around Your Dog
A weekend away doesn't have to be packed with long walks and new experiences.
Think about your dog's age, health, fitness and confidence.
You might plan one main outing each day, with shorter walks and plenty of time to relax.
Our guide to How Much Exercise Does a Toller Need? can help you think about balancing physical activity and mental stimulation.
For more inspiration, explore Best Activities for Tollers.
10. Prepare for the Journey Home
Before leaving your accommodation, check that you have collected everything.
Look for leads, bowls, toys, towels and any personal items that may have been left behind.
Give your dog a suitable opportunity to relieve themselves before travelling, and make sure the car is prepared for the journey.
Once home, allow time for your Toller to return to their usual routine.
A quiet evening may be more appropriate than immediately planning another big adventure.
Weekend Away Packing Checklist
For your Toller
- Usual food and treats.
- Food and water bowls.
- Lead and suitable walking equipment.
- Poo bags.
- Towel.
- Medication and relevant instructions.
- Familiar bedding or settling items, if practical.
- Any equipment needed for planned activities.
For you
- Clothing suitable for the weather.
- Comfortable footwear.
- Phone and charger.
- Wallet and booking details.
- Water bottle.
- Snacks and personal essentials.
- A bag for keeping personal items organised.
Make your next trip a little easier
The best travel setup is one that helps you find your essentials without overpacking. Explore the Toller Club Tote Bag or browse the full collection for everyday accessories inspired by life with your Toller.