Best Camper Vans for Dogs

It may sound ridiculous, but if my dog can’t come, I don’t want to go either. Around the world, pet owners plan their trips based on the needs and requirements of their animals. If you feel similarly, then this is the blog for you! Vanlife with a dog is the best life of all, and I’m here to share some pro tips to make sure you are well-prepared for every adventure.

Whether you are a remote worker, retiree, or travel nurse, choosing the right camper van for both you and your dog is the most important decision to make! In this guide, I'll share the best camper vans for dogs and explore the different chassis, layouts, and other essential features that will make you and your furry friend feel right at home, no matter where you park.

Let's dive in and find the perfect van for you and your pooch!

The first place to start is by knowing the pros and cons between the major van chassis including Ram ProMaster, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and the Ford Transit. I have made a quick reference table below, but let’s discuss some of these points when it comes to your dog!

The two most important aspects in a chassis for a dog are having space to move around and having a space to sleep and feel safe. If you are traveling with two Great Danes, you will need more room than the person with one Chihuahua. Know what makes your dog happy at home, and do your best to replicate that in the van. Does your dog like to curl up on your lap? Lay on the floor? Sleep in a crate? It is important to make sure the chassis you choose offers the appropriate space for your companion.

High-roof options, such as the Noovo Plus, can offer more vertical space, which not only creates a feeling of spaciousness, but also makes room for more vertical storage options.

Layout Suggestions for Dogs

Choosing the right layout inside your van will ensure both you and your dog have a comfortable and functional living space.

Know if your dog enjoys having their bed on the floor, sleeping on your bed, or having their own crate and private space. Life on the road can be an adjustment for many pets, so give them as much stability and feeling of safety as possible.

Does your pet like to look out the window? Play with toys? Can they jump onto furniture or will they need a ramp? Answering these types of questions will help you choose the perfect layout for you and your dog. And depending on how many other humans are traveling with you, you might want to consider a pop-top van for additional sleeping options so everyone has the space and comfort they need.

Here are some of my layout suggestions that will make van life easier and more enjoyable for you and your furry companion:

1. Open Floor Plan

An open floor plan, meaning fewer permanent walls, more foldable furniture, and accessible floor space, allows your dog to move freely without feeling confined. This layout is ideal for medium to large dogs as it provides ample space for them to stretch and move. This is also helpful if your pet needs a ramp to get onto the bed or seats. No matter which floor plan you choose, make sure your pet can always access their designated sleeping or rest area with a comfortable dog bed or crate.

2. Raised Bed with Storage

A raised bed with storage underneath is a great way to maximize space. The storage area can be used to keep dog food, toys, and other pet essentials organized. Ensure the bed is accessible to your dog, possibly with a ramp or steps. The Noovo Lite offers a comfortable, permanent queen bed for you and your pet to share and also has an accessible storage space beneath it.

3. Built-In Crate

For dogs that prefer a den-like space, consider integrating a built-in crate into your layout. This provides a safe and secure area for your dog to retreat to, especially during travel. Make sure it's well-ventilated and padded for comfort. A crate can often fit under the dining table, or even better, in the under-bed storage area.

4. Easy-to-Clean Surfaces

God bless them, but there’s nothing like vanlife to realize how much sand, dirt, and mud dogs bring into a space. Make sure to choose flooring and upholstery materials that are easy to clean. Vinyl or laminate flooring is a good choice as it can be swept or wiped down easily, and removable seat covers are ideal for dealing with fur and stains, and you can easily toss them into the washing machine at your next laundry stop.

Another pro-tip from someone who sleeps with a sweet-but-dirty dog next to her: put a duvet cover on your blanket so you can wash that easily as well, and always make your bed in the morning to help keep your sheets sand-free! Also when we are parked, I put a small bristle rug in front of the door to catch extra dirt before stepping inside.

Features That Make or Break Van Life with a Dog

Now that we have considered chassis and layout options, here are some other vanlife features that are essential for keeping you and your dog happy on the road:

1. Ventilation

Proper ventilation is critical to keep the van at a comfortable temperature for your dog. Consider installing roof vents, windows with screens, and a good fan system to ensure fresh air circulation. Noovo vans come with fans as well as an on-demand Dometic AC unit, which offers up to 12 hours of running time and is highly-efficient, using only 19A in Eco mode!

Although vans are often better insulated than regular vehicles, it is still important to never leave your dog inside the van when it is hot! (See more on this in the FAQs below!) Consider parking in the shade or even leaving the AC unit on if you have to leave them on a hot day.

2. Insulation

Good insulation helps maintain a stable temperature inside the van, keeping it cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This is crucial for your dog's comfort and health. Noovo vans are built with excellent insulation with its Havelock Wool R13, and when you pop-on the window covers, the internal van temperature remains surprisingly stable even in extreme weather. (These covers are also nice for privacy or for keeping your dog from barking at everyone who walks by…).

3. Pet-Friendly Amenities

Look for vans that offer pet-friendly amenities such as built-in food and water bowls (or buy some non-slip, collapsible travel bowls), tether points for securing your dog while driving if needed, and easy access to the bed or outside with ramps or steps. Remember, the more foldable and multi-purpose items you have, the better! A collapsible step-stool can not only help your dog get on the bed, but can also help you reach cabinets, act as a footrest when sitting in your camp chair, or a side table to hold snacks and drinks.

4. Storage Solutions

Ample storage is necessary for keeping all of your dog supplies organized. Designate an overhead cabinet or bin under the bed for all their gear. Self-closing drawers, like those in the Noovo kitchens, are also a great place to store frequently-used items like food, treats, and toys. Use a wall-mounted hook to hang leashes and harnesses, or stash them in a pocket behind the passenger seat.

Whether you opt for a versatile Ram ProMaster, a spacious Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, or a budget-friendly Ford Transit, make sure the van meets your dog's needs. With the right setup, you and your furry friend can emBARK on countless adventures together, enjoying the freedom and joy of vanlife together!

Ready to find the perfect camper van for you and your dog? Explore our latest Noovo Plus model or gently loved inventory and start planning your next adventure today!