After a few false starts, we’ve nearly perfected the essential puppy packing list. See the video below for an overview of what we brought for our trip to Yosemite.

Here are the main things we pack:

• Food: We pre-portion kibble for the day and pack a giant bag of mixed high-reward treats for training, walks, etc.

• Essentials: leash, poop bags, etc.

• Toys: Just ~3-4 of her favorites to minimize space

• Long-lasting chews: These are key for the drive or leaving Moose alone on her own. Himalayan Yak chews are her current favorite and don’t smell. We’re all fans!

• Playpen: As mentioned above, we ended up getting a pen for this trip just for added peace of mind when we aren’t able to watch Moose.

• Grooming essentials: Although Moose doesn’t shed, she’s a bit high maintenance when it comes to things sticking in her hair like Velcro. We end up bringing a brush for short weekends. For longer weekends, we bring shampoo and sometimes detangling spray if she’s going to hike.

• Extras: The nice-to-haves but still important. We have a travel water bottle, bandanas, vitamins, etc.