🐾 Wild Camping with Dogs: Our Kit List and Considerations

What I pack for Teddy and Buddy, and why it matters

Taking dogs wild camping is incredibly rewarding, but it takes planning. From freezing fog to glorious sunshine, our two poodles have seen it all from the tent flap, and their comfort and safety are always a top priority. Here’s what I bring along, what I’ve learned, and what I always make space for, even when trimming weight.

🎒 Dog Kit Essentials

1. Lightweight Waterproof Dog Coats
Seen in most of our photos, these keep Teddy and Buddy dry and help with wind chill, especially when they are standing still. Teddy in particular hates being wet, so a good fitting coat is essential for his comfort.

2. Collapsible Water Bowl
We use a soft, foldable bowl that packs flat. It is great for water stops and meals, and does not take up much space. I often tuck it in the tent porch or side pocket of the rucksack.

3. Leashes and Harnesses (Not Collars Alone)
Harnesses are safer on steep ground or if I need to help them up or down. I use lightweight, well fitted harnesses and keep them on during the trip, even in the tent.

4. Towels or Microfibre Dog Blanket
We carry a compact towel each. They are great for drying off after rain, or for laying down inside the tent. They help keep the sleeping area clean and warm.

5. Food and Snacks (Pre-Portioned)
I pack enough for each day plus a little extra. I use small resealable bags or containers that fit neatly into a dry sack. High reward treats are useful when morale (theirs or mine) dips.

6. Sleeping Comfort
They sleep inside the tent with me, no question. I bring a lightweight fleece blanket for them to share and use spare clothing or a folded mat to create extra padding.

7. Poo Bags and Carry Out Kit
Even when wild camping, we bag and carry out. I keep a stash in the top of the pack and have a sealable container or spare dry bag for used ones until we reach a bin.

8. Visibility
We are often on remote trails or walking in low light. Their harnesses have some reflective detail, but I am looking at adding clip on lights or glow tags for extra visibility.

💡 Extra Considerations for Dog Safety and Comfort

• Weather Suitability
  If the forecast is very wet, too cold, or dangerously hot, we do not go. They rely on me to decide what is safe.
  On our recent Berwyn trip, I started feeling guilty during the worst weather, especially for Teddy. That was when I knew it was time to change course.

• Route Planning
  I always plan for water stops, avoid steep scrambles, and choose camp pitches where they can relax safely, either free roaming or on long lines.

• Pack Management
  I carry all their gear. They are toy poodles and under 7kg each, so panniers are not suitable. It adds weight, but they are my responsibility.

• Overnight Routine
  Once we are in the tent, they are dried off, fed, and settled before I do anything else. They relax faster that way, and if they are calm, so am I.

🐩 Final Thoughts

Wild camping with dogs is incredibly special, but it is not just about bringing them along. It is about building the trip around them. They are part of the team, and it is my job to make sure they are safe, warm, and happy. And to be honest, I would not want to camp without them.