Traveling with pets isn’t just about finding pet-friendly accommodations—it’s about discovering places where our furry companions can truly thrive. Over the years, I’ve journeyed to 20 countries with my two cats, staying in over 40 Airbnbs in as many cities. Typically, we settle in for at least a month, but sometimes we only stay for a few days, depending on the situation. Through all of this, we’ve found some standout destinations that cater exceptionally well to traveling pets and their owners.

Top Destinations for Pet Travel

Ecuador

Ecuador has been a fantastic destination for pet owners. The affordability of litter here is a huge plus, as that can be one of our biggest expenses. Additionally, the pet stores are well-stocked with quality food and supplies, making it easy to keep our cats happy and healthy. The availability of fresh, high-quality pet food at reasonable prices is another major perk.

For pet parents, Ecuador offers a comfortable lifestyle with affordable living costs, making it an easy place to stay long-term. The vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes provide a great backdrop for both relaxation and adventure.

Serbia

Serbia has some of the best pet stores I’ve encountered, offering a variety of healthy food options at very reasonable prices. Finding high-quality cat food is never a challenge here, which makes meal planning for the cats stress-free. The selection of pet supplies is also impressive, ensuring that we always have access to everything we need.

As a pet owner, Serbia is fantastic because of its affordability and friendly atmosphere. The cost of living is low, and there are plenty of cozy cafés and parks to enjoy while exploring with pets.

Montenegro

Our home in Zabljak, Montenegro where our 3 year journey of traveling with our two cats all began

One of the most accommodating places we’ve visited for pets, Montenegro stands out for the kindness of its people. Locals are incredibly welcoming and understanding of pet owners. The affordability of litter and pet food also makes it an attractive choice for long-term stays. Montenegro is also well known for its love of cats—especially in Kotor, where cats are seen as a sign of good luck and prosperity.

For pet parents, Montenegro’s scenic coastal towns and relaxed atmosphere make it a dream destination. It’s a great place to unwind while knowing your pets are welcome and cared for.

Spain

Ginger chillaxin at our beautiful home in Benadalid, Andalucia, Spain

Spain is a haven for pet owners on a budget. The country has massive pet stores with an extensive selection of products, making it incredibly easy to find whatever our cats need. Litter is surprisingly cheap, and supplies are affordable across the board. It’s one of the best destinations when it comes to balancing quality and cost.

For pet parents, Spain offers an incredible lifestyle with beautiful weather, excellent food, and a pet-friendly culture. Many cafés and public spaces welcome pets, making it an enjoyable place to explore with your furry companion.

Romania

Romania has proven to be one of the best places for pet products and care. The pet shops are well-stocked with affordable supplies, and even grocery stores carry a great selection of pet products at low prices. The people are incredibly kind towards cats, and we’ve found veterinary care to be excellent and reasonably priced. Romania is a hidden gem for pet travelers looking for affordability and quality.

As a pet parent, Romania is great because of its affordability and accessibility. The cost of living is low, and there are many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to enjoy with pets. Plus, the kindness of the locals makes it a warm and welcoming place.

Notable Mentions: Vet Care in Argentina and Costa Rica

While Argentina and Costa Rica didn’t make the top of our list for pet stores and supplies, they shine in another critical area: veterinary care. Both countries provided some of the best vet experiences we’ve ever had. Even though the costs were on the higher side, the care was unparalleled. The vets in both locations took the time to provide tailored treatment, addressing our cats’ specific needs with expertise and compassion. However, one major downside in these countries was the cost and quality of litter. We ended up spending the most on litter in Argentina and Costa Rica, and unfortunately, the quality was very poor—making them the worst bang for our buck in that regard.

For pet parents, Argentina and Costa Rica offer peace of mind when it comes to vet care. If your pet has a medical issue while traveling, you can expect top-notch treatment and specialized care.

The Cost of Litter: A Major Consideration

One of the biggest recurring expenses we face while traveling with our cats is litter. Some destinations make this an affordable necessity, while in others, it becomes a surprisingly large part of our budget. That’s one of the key factors that make Ecuador, Montenegro, Spain, and Romania stand out—keeping this essential cost low without sacrificing quality.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with pets is an adventure, but it requires planning and research to ensure they’re comfortable and well cared for. From budget-friendly pet supplies to top-tier veterinary care, each country we visit presents a unique experience. These destinations have proven to be some of the best for our travels, and I hope fellow pet travelers find them just as welcoming and accommodating.

Ginger’s bags packed and ready for the next destination – Costa Rica 🇨🇷