How to Keep Your RV Clean When Traveling with Pets
Traveling cross-country with your furry friends in an RV can make any adventure even better. However, camping with pets presents a unique set of challenges, such as their comfort, safety, and cleanliness. One of the most important aspects of camping with pets is maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for both you and your pets.
We have traveled the U.S. with two dogs and a rabbit and fully understand the importance of keeping your living space clean and working on it daily before it builds up. We carefully choose our routes to include pet friendly RV parks. This guide will provide tips and tricks to keep your RV or camper clean and tidy while traveling with pets.
Preparation for Pet-Friendly Travel
Pet-Friendly RV Essentials
Before hitting the road, ensure your RV is well-equipped for pet-friendly travel. Invest in items such as pet beds, crates, leashes, and food and water dishes to create a comfortable space for your pets. You can also designate a specific area for your pets if your camper or RV is large enough. Having their own space is great because you can train them to return to their area throughout the day and night. We also bring outside toys for our dogs to play with to help with boredom.
Pet-Proofing Your RV
Pet-proofing your RV involves securing potential hazards and preventing messes. Use baby gates to restrict access to certain areas, secure cabinets, and cover your upholstery to protect against scratches and accidents.
We also cover our leather couches to prevent Ranger and Scout’s nails from scratching them. We’ve also found it handy to use the spaces by the door to store dog leashes, poop bags, and shoes for when they need to go outside fast.
Cleaning Supplies for RV Travel with Pets
Must-Have Cleaning Products
Pack a cleaning kit with essentials like pet-safe cleaning solutions, paper towels, stain removers, and odor neutralizers. These items will help you tackle messes promptly and effectively. You won’t realize it when your camper begins to smell because you’ve gotten used to it, so you will want to clean it a little each day.
Organizing Your Cleaning Kit
Keeping your cleaning supplies organized and easily accessible will save you time and stress. Consider storage solutions to keep everything in its place. We like to use clear containers that are easy to stash under the couch or dinner table.
Creating a Pet-Friendly Space
Designating Pet Zones in Your RV
Establish designated pet zones in your RV where your furry friends can eat, sleep, and play. This not only keeps them comfortable but also minimizes the spread of pet-related messes. We have trained our dogs to return to their designated pet zone, which is in front of the door where their beds are located.
Pet Comfort and Safety in Transit
Ensure your pets are secure during travel by using seatbelts, crates, or pet carriers. This not only enhances safety but also prevents them from roaming freely and creating messes.
Daily Cleaning Routine
Maintaining Cleanliness on the Road
Set a daily cleaning routine to stay on top of messes. Quickly dispose of waste, wipe down surfaces, and vacuum pet hair to maintain a clean and hygienic environment. We do a quick daily cleaning to keep it from building up on a long trip.
Tacking Pet Messes Promptly
Accidents can happen, but addressing them promptly is essential. Use pet-friendly stain removers and odor neutralizers to clean and deodorize the affected areas effectively. We clean pet messes the moment they happen to cut down on smells in the RV.
Boondocking Camping
Your cleaning routine may differ if you’re boondocking in your RV. There may not be any trashcans available for you to throw your trash away, so you will have to plan accordingly.
Storing Pet-Related Items
Organizing Pet Supplies in Your RV
Use storage containers and designated cabinets to keep pet supplies organized. This prevents clutter and makes it easy to find what you need when you need it. Organizing your pet supplies is the best way to keep your RV or camper tidy and comfortable.
Tips for Storing Pet Food and Toys
Properly store pet food to prevent it from spilling or attracting pests. You can purchase see-through plastic containers anywhere in various sizes. Keep toys in designated bins to keep them clean and your RV clutter-free.
Preventing Pet Odors
Dealing with Pet Odors in Your RV
Pet odors in a camper or RV can be a challenge, but there are effective ways to manage them. Use air purifiers and open windows to improve ventilation. Regularly wash pet bedding and clean litter boxes.
Freshening Up Your RV’s Air
Invest in air fresheners or natural alternatives like baking soda to maintain a fresh and pleasant atmosphere inside your RV.
Health and Safety Considerations
Keeping Your Pets Healthy on the Road
Make sure your pets have access to clean water and healthy food. Keep up with their regular health check-ups and vaccinations. Exercise is important for pets while traveling. Walk them when you stop for gas, even if it’s only for a few minutes.
Handling Emergencies and First Aid
Prepare a pet first aid kit and familiarize yourself with basic first aid techniques for pets in case of emergencies. Always keep first aid kits in your vehicle and RV or camper. We have multiple first aid kits in various locations, such as the truck, camper, and bags.
Maintaining a Clean RV Interior
Upholstery and Floor Care
Regularly vacuum and clean upholstery and floors to keep them pet-hair-free and stain-free. It’s easier if you clean a little each day. We try to get the kids involved with cleaning the floors and couch.
Cleaning Windows, Mirrors, and Surfaces
Use pet-safe cleaning products to keep windows, mirrors, and surfaces sparkling clean.
Post-Trip Cleaning and Maintenance
End-of-Trip Cleaning Checklist
After your journey, follow an end-of-trip cleaning checklist to ensure your RV is clean and ready for your next adventure. You can personalize your checklist to cover items you need to clean after each trip.
RV Maintenance for Pet Owners
Regular RV maintenance is essential to prevent pet-related wear and tear on your RV. Check for any damage or wear and address it promptly. You may see extra scratch marks on wood surfaces or nail scratches on your leather couches. Fixing them early is the best way to maintain your furniture.
Tips for Enjoyable Pet-Friendly RV Travel
Making Your Journey Comfortable and Fun
Above all, remember that traveling with pets in your RV is a bonding experience. Make it enjoyable for both you and your furry companions. Pets love camping just as much as their owners, and they can make your trip so fun!
Creating Lasting Memories with Your Pets
Capture the moments and create lasting memories with your pets during your RV adventures.
Conclusion
Balancing adventure and cleanliness when traveling with pets in your RV is possible. By following these tips and implementing a solid cleaning and maintenance routine, you can enjoy a hassle-free and enjoyable journey with your four-legged travel companions.
I couldn’t imagine traveling without our pets, and I know you will enjoy it as well! Remember, with some planning and preparation, you can have the best of both worlds – the joy of pet-friendly RV travel and a clean, hygienic home on wheels. Happy travels!