Labradors Lead the Pack as 86 Percent of Dog Owners Take Their Pets on Holiday The Caravan and Motorhome Club Reveals in New Survey

It really is a dogs’ life! A recent survey by the Caravan and Motorhome Club reveals that 86 percent of dog owners take their furry friends on holiday because they consider them part of the family.  Whether it's in a caravan, motorhome, campervan, or roof tent, our four-legged companions are joining us on our adventures.

Leading the pack are Labradors, with 22 percent of respondents favouring them for their travels. Not far behind are Golden Retrievers (18 percent), followed by Jack Russells, Cocker Spaniels, and Mixed Breed rescue dogs (14 percent). This highlights the growing trend of pet-inclusive holidays, where our beloved pets are not just passengers but cherished travel buddies.

The survey also revealed some surprising travel companions. Among the most unusual pets taken on trips were bearded dragons, snakes, cats, fish and even rabbits!

Whether in a caravan, campervan, motorhome or roof tent, the Caravan and Motorhome Club is perfectly positioned to address the needs of these holidaymakers, offering a range of dog-friendly facilities and services that make travelling with pets as easy and enjoyable as possible.  The Club knows that dogs are part of the family and that’s why dogs stay for free at all Club campsites.

We rely on our dogs for emotional support, with this being the top reason for holidaying with our dogs (31 percent); convenience (30 percent), and cost-saving on kennels (25 percent) are also high on the list for bringing dogs along. However, these journeys are not without challenges; finding dog-friendly stops (57 percent), keeping dogs calm (49 percent) and managing space (28 percent) are common hurdles faced by pet owners.

When it comes to preferred vehicles, caravans (43 percent) are the top choice for dog owners, followed by campervans (19 percent) motorhomes (17 percent) and vehicles with roof tents (16 percent).

When asked about their favourite holiday pursuits, dog owners reveal what they most enjoy doing with their furry friends; Labradors, known for their love of water, are most likely to enjoy beach trips with their owners (50%). Golden Retrievers also enjoy water activities and are often seen on coastal walks (11%), favoured in regions with access to beaches and lakes. Jack Russells, energetic and adventurous, are perfect for hiking and exploring trails (55%), and Cocker Spaniels enjoy a mix of activities, including forest walks and playing fetch. Mixed breed/rescue dogs are adaptable and enjoy a variety of activities, making them suitable for both urban and rural settings.

Harvey Alexander, Director of Marketing and Membership Services at the Caravan and Motorhome Club, said, “Our members' love for their pets is truly heartwarming. This is why we introduced our Paws of Approval rating system several years ago, which has been a fantastic initiative to ensure our campsites are as welcoming as possible for dogs and their owners.  However, it isn’t just dogs that benefit from a holiday, reptiles, rabbits, cats and other animals get to enjoy the ride as well.   We are thrilled to see so many people making the most of their holidays with their beloved pets.”

The Caravan and Motorhome Club offers a network of over 200 main campsites and 2,200 smaller Certificated Locations (CLs) across the UK, ensuring that dog owners have access to dog-friendly facilities wherever they go. Many Club campsites feature dedicated dog walks, dog wash areas, and dog-friendly pitches, making it easier for members to travel with their pets. The "Paws of Approval" initiative awards the best UK dog-friendly campsites with a "paw rating," voted for by members and their four-legged friends. This highlights the campsites that go the extra mile for doggy guests, ensuring they are recognised for their exceptional dog-friendly facilities and services.  From coastal retreats to countryside escapes, the Club’s extensive network ensures that there’s a perfect spot for every dog-loving holidaymaker.

The Club’s community of like-minded tourers provides a supportive environment where members can share tips and experiences about travelling with dogs and members also enjoy access to exclusive discounts on dog-related products and services.

Recent comments from members include: “Travelling with my dog is a must. The Caravan and Motorhome Club makes it so much easier with their dog-friendly facilities and supportive community,” said one survey respondent. Another added: “Finding dog-friendly stops used to be a challenge, but with the Club’s extensive network, I always know there’s a place for us.”

The Caravan and Motorhome Club provides its members with the best possible travel experiences.  With a rich history and a commitment to innovation, the Club continues to lead the way in offering the best possible facilities and services for holidaymakers and their pets.

For further information about becoming a member of the Caravan and Motorhome Club or to book, please visit www.camc.com or call 01342 318 813.

Ends

Notes to Editors

The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 1,000 Dog Owners in UK, aged 16+, who have travelled in a caravan/campervan/motorhome/tent/roof tent with their dog. The data was collected between 04.04.2025-10.04.2025. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.

 

About The Caravan and Motorhome Club

Championing and helping its members get more from the great outdoors, whether glamping or touring, the Caravan and Motorhome Club represents the interests of over 1.1 million caravan, motorhome, campervan and trailer tent owners across the UK. With over 117 years of knowledge and expertise, the Club has a wealth of experience and prides itself on offering great value and high-quality campsites for tourers and glampers.

 

Caravan and Motorhome Club membership is just £66 per year and provides members with access to over 2,700 quality campsites across the UK and Europe. As the UK’s No. 1 rated touring club* it makes sure members get the most from their membership, saving them money with great value offers whether touring or at home.

 

The Club also offers a range of escorted European tours which are protected by ABTA.  Plus escorted and independent tours in Australasia, North America and Southern Africa which are also fully protected, either by ABTA or ATOL when a flight is included. All members can take advantage of expert advice, overseas travel services, cover and insurance and exclusive member offers and discounts.

 

For further information about becoming a member of the Caravan and Motorhome Club, please visit www.camc.com or call 01342 318 813.

 

*As rated on Trustpilot

 

About Experience Freedom

Experience Freedom from the Caravan and Motorhome Club provides glamping accommodation in some of the most beautiful locations in the UK. Experience Freedom offers a choice of glamping accommodation, motorhome hire and tent camping, all of which are available to non-members.  Motorhome hire, including some discounted hire schemes can be found here https://www.experiencefreedom.co.uk/motorhome-hire/

Experience Freedom is operated by the Caravan and Motorhome Club, a membership organisation with a wealth of experience in operating high-quality campsites.

Caravan and Motorhome Club members can save up to 20% on glamping accommodation for themselves and their friends and family when staying at the campsite with them. It is automatically applied to the booking when the membership number is used. To book friends and family, simply call on 01342 777533 to make a booking with your Club membership card.

To find out more, visit www.experiencefreedom.co.uk

Media Contacts:

For more press information, please email Nikki Nichol at the Caravan and Motorhome Club on nikki.nichol@camc.com or by calling 07771 834443.

Or contact the Four Agency press team, by emailing Helen Coop, Manav Hartono or Eddie Eglington at camc@four.agency.