Holiday Travel with Pets — Should You Bring Them or Hire a Sitter?

The holidays are one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. Families reunite, friends gather, and many pet owners face the same question every year:

“Should I bring my pet with me, or is it better to hire a pet sitter?”

Both options can work well depending on your pet’s personality, your travel plans, and how comfortable your pet is with change. Here’s a breakdown to help you make the best decision for your furry family member.

🎒 Bringing Your Pet With You

For some pets, traveling alongside their humans is the best option. It keeps them close, reduces separation anxiety, and allows them to be part of the festivities. However, traveling during the holidays can come with challenges.

Pros

• They stay with their favorite humans — Less stress and fewer worries for anxious pets.

• Great for pets who love car rides or new environments.

• Convenience for owners — No need to coordinate sitter visits or boarding schedules.

Cons

• Holiday travel is hectic — Airports are crowded, flights are expensive, and weather delays are common.

• Pets may become overwhelmed — New people, new smells, new homes, and tons of noise can stress them out.

• Family homes may not be pet-proofed — Holiday foods, decorations, and toxic plants can pose risks.

• Extra rules, fees, and paperwork — Airlines and hotels often require health certificates, carrier restrictions, and additional fees.

Best For:

Confident, social pets who enjoy travel, are crate-trained, and do well in new environments.

🏡 Hiring a Pet Sitter

For many pets—especially cats, senior pets, shy animals, or dogs who thrive on routine—staying home is the most comfortable and least stressful option.

Pros

• Your pet stays in their familiar environment — No travel stress, no schedule disruptions.

• Professional sitters maintain routines — Regular feeding times, walks, medications, and exercise.

• Your home gets monitored — Sitters bring in mail, water plants, and keep everything looking lived-in.

• Perfect for pets with anxiety or medical needs.

Cons

• Holiday sitter schedules fill up fast — You need to book early.

• Some pets need 24/7 companionship — In that case, overnight care may be best.

Best For:

Pets who are routine-driven, anxious in new places, elderly, medically fragile, or simply happiest at home.

✈️ How to Know What’s Right for Your Pet

Ask yourself the following:

• Does my pet get stressed in the car or around strangers?

• Does my pet’s routine (walks, feeding, medications) stay mostly the same during travel?

• Will the place I’m staying be safe and pet-friendly?

• Are there small children, other pets, or chaos that may overwhelm them?

• Is it a long trip with lots of activities where my pet may be left alone?

If you said yes to any of these, hiring a sitter is likely the best choice.

🐾 Why Many Pet Owners Choose Pet Sitting for the Holidays

During the holiday season, the combination of noisy gatherings, long travel days, slippery winter roads, and overwhelming environments can make pets uneasy. That’s why many families choose to keep their pets home with a trusted sitter, ensuring they’re safe, relaxed, and cared for—without the holiday stress.

Staycation Pet Sitting Service offers:

• Daily visits

• Dog walking

• Overnight care

• Pet transportation

• Holiday support

We help your pets feel loved and secure while you’re away enjoying your holiday plans.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best choice depends on your pet’s personality, your travel plans, and what will make your furry friend the happiest. Whether you bring your pet along or hire a professional sitter, planning ahead ensures a safe, calm, and enjoyable holiday season for everyone.

If you’d like help booking holiday services or deciding which option fits your pet best, we’re here to help!