Pet Friendly Vacation Rentals

The first time I booked a pet-friendly vacation rental, I felt like I'd unlocked a secret that every pet owner should know. My dog, Max, was a nervous traveler, and I was dreading the idea of leaving him behind. That changed when I found a home in the mountains of Colorado, complete with a dog-friendly yard and a private outdoor space. The rental wasn't just a place to stay—it was a sanctuary for both of us.

What struck me most was how much the cost of a pet-friendly rental could actually be comparable to a hotel, especially when you factor in the extra fees for pets at traditional hotels. For the first time, I felt like I wasn't just paying for a room, but for a real, safe, and welcoming environment where my dog could be himself. It was a revelation I didn't expect.

Since that trip, I've been on a mission to help other pet owners find affordable, safe, and pet-friendly vacation rentals. I've tested dozens of platforms, read countless reviews, and even stayed in a few places that didn't quite make the cut. But the ones that did? They've transformed how I think about travel, and how I budget for it.

What to Look for in a Pet-Friendly Rental

As of October 2026, one of the first things I look for is a clear pet policy. Some rentals allow pets, but not all of them. I’ve seen listings that don’t mention pets at all, only to find out after booking that it’s not allowed. A good rental will list their pet policy up front, including any restrictions on breed, size, or number of animals.

Another key point is the availability of pet amenities. Some rentals provide pet beds, bowls, and even toys. Others don’t mention anything, which can be a red flag. I’ve stayed in places that had no pet-friendly amenities at all, and it was a nightmare trying to make do with whatever I had brought.

I’ve also learned that some rentals have a ‘pet fee’ listed in the description. This can be a one-time fee or a per-night charge. For me, that’s a deal-breaker. I’ve stayed in rentals where the pet fee was $25 per night, which added up to over $500 for a week-long trip. That’s not something I was prepared for.^[1]

Part of our Vets pets guide.

How to Use Platforms to Find the Best Rentals

I’ve tested a few platforms for pet-friendly rentals, and some stand out more than others. Airbnb is the most common one, and it has a filter for pet-friendly listings. However, I’ve found that many of the listings are only pet-friendly in name, not in practice.

Vrbo is another great option. It often has more detailed pet policies listed than Airbnb. I’ve found that some listings on Vrbo clearly state that they allow large dogs, which is crucial for people with big pets.

I’ve also used sites like HomeToGo and Trivago, but I found them less reliable for pet-friendly options. The filters are sometimes confusing, and the listings can be outdated or inaccurate.

Don’t assume a rental is pet-friendly just because it's listed on a site. Always check the details.

Related: Riverdale animal shelter

What to Expect in Terms of Cost

I’ve stayed in pet-friendly rentals that cost the same as a hotel room with a pet fee. In some cases, they’ve even been cheaper. For example, a one-bedroom rental in Austin, Texas, came out to $120 per night, which was significantly cheaper than a nearby hotel with a $35 pet fee per night.^[2]

Prices can vary a lot depending on the location and the time of year. During peak season, pet-friendly rentals can be up to 20% more expensive than in off-season. I’ve found that staying in smaller towns or rural areas often results in lower prices.

I’ve also noticed that some platforms charge a service fee for pet-friendly listings. This can add up, so it’s important to check what the total cost includes before booking.

“The first time I booked a pet-friendly vacation rental, I felt like I'd unlocked a secret that every pet owner should know.”— Financial Planning for Veterinarians editors

Related: What is pet friendly hotel

What to Do If You Find a Rental That Isn’t Pet-Friendly

I’ve been in a situation where I booked a rental that didn’t mention any pet restrictions, only to find out that the host didn’t allow pets at all. It was a stressful experience, and I had to find a new place to stay at the last minute.

If you find yourself in that situation, the best option is to contact the host as soon as possible. In some cases, they might be willing to accommodate you if they have the space. I’ve had hosts who said they were okay with pets as long as they didn’t damage anything.

If the host isn’t flexible, you might need to find a new rental. It’s important to be polite and professional when you contact them, even if you’re upset. A good host will be more willing to work with you if you’re respectful.

Related: National pet day

How to Handle Emergencies or Medical Needs

I once stayed in a rental with a dog who had a chronic condition. The host had no experience with pets who needed regular medication, and that made things complicated. I had to carry all the supplies with me, which was a hassle.

If your pet has special needs, it’s a good idea to check with the host beforehand. Some hosts are willing to accommodate pets with disabilities or medical conditions as long as they’re informed in advance.

I’ve found that some rental platforms have a section where you can list your pet’s medical needs. This helps hosts determine if they can accommodate you. It’s also a good way to ensure your pet gets the care they need during your trip.

Related: The best pet insurance for dogs

How to Choose the Right Rental Based on Your Pet’s Behavior

I’ve found that some rentals are better suited for well-behaved pets, while others are more flexible. If your pet is a bit rowdy, you might want to look for a rental that has a secure yard or a private area where your pet can roam without disturbing other guests.

I’ve also found that some rentals have strict rules about pets being left alone. If your pet is used to being with you all the time, that could be a problem. I once had to leave my dog alone for several hours in a rental that didn’t have a secure area, and it was a nightmare.

If your pet is a bit of a troublemaker, it’s important to be upfront with the host. Some hosts are more willing to accommodate pets with behavioral issues if they’re informed in advance.

Your pet’s behavior can make or break your vacation. Choose a rental that fits their needs.

Related: What s the best pets

The Role of Reviews in Choosing a Pet-Friendly Rental

I’ve found that reviews are one of the best ways to determine if a rental is truly pet-friendly. I always read through the reviews to see if other guests have had similar experiences with pets.

Some reviews will mention specific details, like whether the host provided pet amenities or if the pet policy was clear. I’ve seen reviews that mention pets being allowed, but not much else, which can be misleading.

It’s also important to check for any negative reviews related to pets. If a host has had trouble with pets before, that could be a red flag. I’ve stayed in a few rentals that had negative reviews about pets, and it was a good indicator that the host wasn’t the best fit for me.

The Hidden Cost of Pet-Friendly Vacations and How to Budget for It

When booking a pet-friendly rental, it's easy to focus on the base price, but additional fees can range from $50 to $200 per stay, depending on the property and location. I once booked a cabin in Colorado and was surprised by a $150 pet fee—this covered cleaning, but not extra insurance or emergency care. Always check the fine print for things like deposit requirements, damage waivers, and insurance coverage. These can add hundreds to your total cost if not accounted for in advance.

I’ve found that many rentals require a security deposit, which can be $500 or more. This deposit is usually refundable if there's no damage, but it's important to understand the process for getting it back. In my experience, it took three weeks to receive my deposit back after a trip to Florida, which was frustrating and unexpected. Always confirm the deposit timeline and conditions before booking to avoid surprises.

To plan effectively, I recommend budgeting an extra 15-20% of your rental cost for unexpected fees, pet-related expenses, and potential emergencies. This buffer helped me cover a $120 vet visit when my dog ate something toxic during a trip to Oregon. A little extra planning can save you from financial stress and ensure a smoother, more enjoyable vacation for you and your pet.

Pet Friendly Vacation Rentals