Top 10 Dog Travel Accessories for Australia Road Trips

There’s nothing better than loading up the car, pointing it down an open road, and bringing your dog along for the ride. From coastal drives to long inland stretches, road trips are a big part of life in Australia — but travelling with a dog takes a bit of planning. Comfort, safety, and keeping the car clean all matter when you’re hours away from home.

The right travel gear can make a huge difference. A supportive seat, secure restraints, spill-proof hydration, and proper seat protection help your dog stay relaxed while keeping distractions to a minimum. They also make quick stops, longer drives, and overnight stays far easier to manage.

In this guide, we’ve pulled together ten practical dog travel accessories that suit real Australian road trips. Each pick focuses on everyday usability — easy setup, simple cleaning, and designs that work for different dog sizes and travel styles. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend escape or planning a longer drive, these essentials help make the journey smoother for both you and your dog.

Back Seat Dog Cover Hard Bottom — stable protection for everyday drives

If your dog spends a lot of time riding in the back seat, stability matters just as much as protection. A back seat dog cover hard bottom gives your dog a firm, non-slip surface that feels more like a platform than a loose fabric cover. It’s ideal for medium to large dogs that shift around on longer drives. 

The hard base helps reduce seat sagging, while the waterproof, scratch-resistant layers protect against spills, muddy paws, loose fur, and sharp claws. For daily use, quick wipe-down cleaning is a real advantage — and it installs fast with adjustable straps and buckles.

Practical tip: tighten the straps evenly so the cover sits level. A flat surface helps dogs settle faster and ride more calmly.

Travel Dog Car Seat Bed — comfort that lasts beyond the first hour

Long drives can be tiring for dogs, especially when they don’t have proper support. A travel dog car seat bed creates a dedicated, cushioned space that helps your dog relax and settle in for the journey. The elevated design supports better posture, making it a strong choice for dogs that fidget, get stiff, or feel uneasy on longer trips. 

The soft foam interior absorbs road vibrations, while the structured sides give anxious dogs a sense of security. It fits neatly on most car seats and installs quickly, making it practical for both weekend escapes and regular drives.

Practical tip: position the bed so your dog can face forward — it helps reduce motion discomfort and encourages calmer behaviour.

Dog Bed for Car Boot — spacious comfort for larger dogs

For bigger dogs that need room to stretch out, a dog bed for car boot turns the boot area into a secure and comfortable travel space. Side bolsters add an extra sense of safety, helping dogs stay centred during braking or cornering, while the non-slip base keeps the bed firmly in place.

This setup works especially well for longer drives, where large breeds benefit from a flat, supportive surface and the ability to fully relax. The waterproof fabric helps manage muddy paws and spills, and the removable cover makes cleaning straightforward after outdoor trips.

Practical tip: measure your boot area before installing to ensure the bed sits flush without folding — a snug fit prevents shifting and keeps your dog more settled.

Dog Booster Car Seat — a safer view for small and medium dogs

Small to medium dogs often feel more settled when they can see out and stay securely in one spot. A dog booster car seat creates a cosy, raised space that helps reduce slipping around the seat — especially on longer drives where dogs tend to shift, stand up, then resettle again. 

The built-in adjustable seatbelt adds extra security, while the soft cushion makes it comfortable enough for naps between stops. It’s a good pick for anxious travellers, older dogs that prefer a supported seat, or puppies still getting used to car rides. Installation is quick, and the cotton fabric is easy to keep fresh with regular cleaning.

Practical tip: clip the belt so your dog can sit and lie down comfortably, but can’t jump out — the right length prevents tangles and distractions.

Waterproof Dog Car Seat Bed — an easy-clean seat for small dogs

For small dogs, having a snug seat they can curl up in makes car travel feel far less overwhelming. A waterproof dog car seat bed gives them a cosy, supported space with front and back pillows, plus a built-in safety buckle to help keep them secure on the move. It’s a handy choice for daily commutes as well as longer road trips where comfort (and keeping things tidy) really matters. 

The waterproof, anti-slip design helps protect your car from spills, wet fur, and sandy paws, while the removable cover makes cleanup simple after a big day out. Side pockets are great for keeping treats and toys within reach at stops.

Practical tip: clip the safety buckle to a harness, not a collar — it’s safer and more comfortable if you need to brake suddenly.

Dog Console Car Seat — close, secure seating up front

Some small dogs travel best when they’re right beside you, especially if they get anxious in the back. A dog console car seat gives them a stable spot between the front seats, with soft padding and a 360-degree open design so they can see what’s going on without feeling boxed in. The breathable build is a plus on warm australian days, and the suede finish keeps it feeling comfy for longer trips.

Safety is the real win here: the anti-slip base and adjustable straps help stop shifting, while the integrated carabiner adds extra security.

Practical tip: attach the clip to a harness rather than a collar, and adjust it so your dog can sit and lie down, but can’t climb out — it keeps you both calmer while driving.

Dog Car Safety Seat Belt — a simple upgrade for safer trips

Even calm dogs can lurch forward when you brake or turn suddenly, and that’s where a reliable restraint really helps. A dog car safety seat belt keeps your dog safely in place while still allowing enough freedom to sit, stand, or lie down comfortably. It’s especially useful for energetic dogs that bounce around during the first part of a drive, or for trips where you’ll be doing lots of stop-start driving.

The bungee buffer absorbs some of the shock from bumps and sharp braking, which can reduce strain on your dog and make the ride feel smoother. The rotating buckle also helps prevent tangles as your dog moves.

Practical tip: set the length so your dog can change position, but can’t reach the front seats — it reduces distractions and keeps everyone safer.

Pet Drinking Bottle — hydration without the mess

On Australian road trips, water stops are non-negotiable — especially if you’re mixing driving with beach walks, bush tracks, or quick servo breaks. A pet drinking bottle makes it easy to offer clean water anywhere without tipping a bowl onto your car floor or wasting half the bottle. The built-in bowl design is great for dogs that drink fast, and the leak-proof lock means you can toss it in a bag and keep going.

The 3-in-1 setup is handy for day trips: water, a small food compartment, plus space for essentials like bags. Detachable parts also make cleaning simple after dusty or sandy outings.

Practical tip: offer small sips every 60–90 minutes on warmer days instead of one big drink — it helps avoid belly discomfort and keeps your dog steadier during the drive.

Dog Hammock for Car — full back seat coverage without the mess

If your dog likes to move around or stretch out across the back seat, a dog hammock for car offers reliable protection while keeping them safely contained. The hammock-style design blocks gaps between seats, helping prevent slipping forward during braking and protecting doors, seat backs, and upholstery from dirt, scratches, and wet fur.

Side flaps add extra coverage, which is especially useful after beach visits or muddy walks, and the waterproof fabric makes cleanup quick once you’re home. It installs easily and suits most vehicles, making it a practical option for families who travel with their dog regularly.

Practical tip: adjust the headrest straps so the hammock sits taut rather than sagging — a firmer surface gives dogs better footing and reduces sliding.

Car Back Seat Dog Cover Protector — everyday protection with extra comfort

If you’re after a simple, reliable way to keep your back seat clean, a car back seat dog cover protector is an easy win. The waterproof layer helps guard against spills, wet fur, sandy paws, and everyday shed hair, while the anti-slip backing keeps the cover stable as your dog shifts around. It’s a great option for regular errands, school runs, and weekend drives when you don’t want to think twice about the mess.

The built-in cushioned edge is a nice touch for longer trips, giving your dog a softer spot to lean against or rest their head. It installs quickly, and machine washing makes maintenance straightforward.

Practical tip: give it a quick shake-out after each trip, then wipe down the waterproof surface — doing small clean-ups often keeps the car fresh without needing big wash days.

Conclusion

A good road trip with your dog comes down to comfort, safety, and keeping the car easy to live with. A stable hard-bottom cover and a full hammock help protect your back seat and give your dog better footing, while a boot bed adds space and support for larger breeds. For smaller travellers, a booster seat or console seat creates a secure, cosy spot they can settle into. Add a safety seat belt to reduce sudden jolts, and a leak-proof drinking bottle to make water breaks quick and tidy. With the right mix of protection and comfort, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying the drive — whether it’s a short weekend getaway or a longer australian road trip.