Traveling With Cats: Build a Better Trip Kit With Your AAA Membership

Article overview

In this article, you'll learn how to build your cat travel kit that includes:

• What to pack for safe transport, litter needs and easy cleanup.
• How to bring familiar food, water and comforts along.
• What identification and emergency information to keep handy.
• How your AAA Membership can earn you cash back and shop helpful pet resources.

Traveling with cats takes a little extra planning, especially if the road trip includes a hotel stay. A thoughtfully packed cat travel kit can help you handle everyday needs without having to hunt for supplies. Start with what your cat already uses, then fill the gaps. Your AAA Membership can help you shop for essentials and explore resources for the journey ahead.

Safe transport: Choose your cat travel carrier first

Look for a sturdy, well-ventilated cat travel carrier with secure closures, a washable liner and enough room for your cat to stand, turn around and lie down. Be sure to check the manufacturer's vehicle-placement and restraint instructions. Add absorbent liners and a spare towel to your packing list. Keep your cat in a secure carrier while driving and never leave your cat alone in a parked vehicle.

Tip: Introduce the carrier at home before departure, using familiar bedding and short practice rides. 

Litter and cleanup: Prepare for messes

A portable litter box belongs near the top of your cat travel checklist. Choose one that's easy to clean and large enough for your cat and bring familiar litter rather than introducing a new variety on vacation. Pack a scoop, waste bags, extra liners, paper towels and a pet-safe cleaner. Keep cleanup supplies together in a separate, easy-to-reach bag. Offer litter access during planned stops in a securely enclosed space, never with vehicle doors open. 

Food and hydration: Bring a familiar menu

Pack your cat's regular food, drinking water, bowls and any utensils needed for serving. Pre-portioned meals in sealed containers can simplify feeding while on the go. Pack a little extra food to provide a cushion for delays. Ask your veterinarian about feeding timing if your cat experiences motion sickness and follow storage directions for wet food and medications.

Comfort: Take a little piece of home

Your cat's favorite blanket may earn a spot in the suitcase more than a brand-new toy. Bring familiar bedding, a favorite toy and a compact scratching surface for the room. Before booking pet-friendly hotels, confirm that cats are welcome. Ask about fees, limits and rules for leaving pets unattended. Once inside, check for escape routes and inaccessible hiding spots before opening the carrier.

Identification and emergency preparation: Keep details close

Check that identification tags and microchip registration list current contact information. Carry a recent photo, vaccination records, your veterinarian's number and details for emergency veterinary clinics along your route. Bring prescribed medications in their labeled packaging, along with any health documents your destination requires. A small pet first-aid kit is another useful purchase; ask your veterinarian what to include and how to use it. 

Shop your checklist through the AAA Dollars Online Mall

Before buying, AAA Members can shop the AAA Dollars Online Mall for participating retailers such as Chewy or Target where purchases can be redeemed for cash back.

Membership benefits: Explore AAA pet discounts and resources

• Spot Pet Insurance: Explore a separate policy for eligible veterinary expenses and review available AAA Member discounts. Coverage isn't included with membership; waiting periods, exclusions and state-specific terms apply.
• Help4Pets: The Pet Emergency Tag System connects responders and caregivers with important pet information. AAA currently advertises 30% off first-year membership. It complements, rather than replaces, identification and microchipping.
• Pet medications: Browse current Online Mall offers like 1800PetMeds and PetCareRx. Check prescription requirements, shipping timelines and purchase eligibility before ordering.

A better cat travel kit doesn't have to mean buying everything new. Start with familiar essentials, choose practical additions and use your AAA Membership to fill in the gaps. With the details handled before departure, you can focus on helping your feline passenger settle in.