Here's How To Take Your Cat Camping According To Pet Owners Who Have Done It

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If you've ever seen a GoPro video of a cat hiking behind its human like a pint-sized panther, you might think feline adventuring is just an internet gimmick. But camping with your cat is possible — and for the right kitty, it can be a fun way to enjoy the great outdoors together. Of course, it's not something you can wing. Cats are creatures of habit, so transitioning them to a spontaneous adventure requires a thoughtful approach. 

First, consider their personality. Some cats might love exploring outside, while others would be overly stressed. As one Reddit user explains, "One of my cats has crazy anxiety and would probably hate it. My other cat loves going for walks and seeing nature." If you think your cat is a good camping candidate, the first step is training. Before you even think about packing the tent, get your cat used to being outside in a controlled way. A good place to start is to spend afternoons in your backyard using a cat harness. Next, try leashed walks down the block or on familiar paths. Also set up your tent or unpack your gear at home so your cat can sniff around and get used to it.

The next step is a trial run. Set up your tent or RV in your backyard or a local park and let your cat spend some time inside. Keep an eye on how they behave. If they seem stressed, camping may not be a good fit for them. However, if they are comfortable and curious, they might enjoy camping under the right circumstances. Camping with your cat is possible, but only if you respect their limits and put in the work ahead of time.

Once Kitty is comfortable outside, it's time to prep for the real deal. Safety comes first when venturing into the wild with your furry bestie. For starters, get a quality escape-proof cat harness. Cats are incredibly flexible, and as one Reddit user warned, "Cats are VERY good at escaping harnesses ... You need a cat-specific unescapable harness that fits and you need to test this yourself at home before you take your cat outside with it."

You should keep your cat leashed or secured inside an RV, tent, or travel crate at all times. Letting them roam freely — even in what seems like a safe area — is quite risky. According to Adventure Cats, "This is the best way to ensure your cat doesn't wander off and encounter wildlife, eat something he shouldn't, or get into another dangerous situation." Be particularly vigilant if you're camping in bear or coyote country, and be sure to pack food safely to deter wildlife. While hiking, it's also best to bring a cat backpack so they can rest when they get tired.

Microchipping your cat before camping is a must. Consider Rayne Beau, a cat who went missing in Yellowstone. While he amazingly made it home after two months — and was reunited with his family thanks to a microchip — many called it a miracle. The chances of a cat being lost forever or getting injured or killed are high if they're not familiar with the area. For extra protection, use a tracking device (like an AirTag) and lights on their harness or collar so your cat is easier to find. Bring vaccination records, flea and tick meds, and a pet first-aid kit. Pro tip: Always leave the site as you found it, and don't let your cat interact with local wildlife.

Camping with your cat can be rewarding — but like anything involving animals, there are bound to be challenges. On the plus side, it's a fun way to strengthen your bond. Cats get mental stimulation exploring new sights and smells. And for cats who are socialized and leash-trained, being outdoors can be a confidence-boosting adventure. As one Reddit user shared after a successful trip, "She was happy to explore the campsite, nearby trails, and even dipped her toes in the lake! She was far better behaved than my parents dog (who was also camping) and was loved by many people." But it's not always that simple. Cats are sensitive to change, and a new environment might overwhelm them. 

Just like packing for a road trip with your cat, bring supplies like fresh water, cat food, a travel litter box, and familiar items for comfort. You'll also have to plan activities around your cat. They can't be left alone, and the inside of a car or RV can become dangerously hot. Plus, you'll need to check the rules in advance. Not all parks and campgrounds are pet-friendly, and many have strict leash laws. Chances are, camping with Kitty might not end up how you imagined. One Reddit user shared, "I've seen a couple cats on leashes at a campground once. They weren't out for long because they piqued the interest of the bears." 

Ultimately, only you know your cat's personality. If they're calm, leash-trained, and curious, they might be the perfect trail companion. If they're skittish or prefer the couch to the carrier, maybe it's best to leave them with a pet sitter. There's no shame in that either. After all, the goal is a safe, happy experience — for both of you.