Captured Travel For many Australians, a road trip isn’t complete without their four-legged companion riding shotgun. As winter road trip season gets underway, new research has revealed the best routes across the country for travellers wanting to bring their dogs along for the adventure.
With pet-friendly accommodation, cafes and attractions becoming increasingly important to holidaymakers, insurance provider ROLLiN’ analysed 22 of Australia’s most iconic road trips to determine which offer the best experience for both humans and their furry friends.
The study assessed routes across eight categories, including pet amenities, safety, comfort, veterinary access and overall travel experience, creating a comprehensive ranking of Australia’s most dog-friendly road trips.
Western Australia claims the crown
Topping the list is Western Australia’s picturesque Cape to Cape route, which scored 79.2 out of 100 overall. Stretching 111 kilometres between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin, the route stood out for its exceptional concentration of dog-friendly beaches, parks and accommodation.
The region recorded the highest density of dog parks and beaches nationally, with more than 159 dog-friendly locations per 100 kilometres, while also offering the greatest number of pet-friendly accommodation options.
The route’s mild winter temperatures also contributed to its success, making it particularly comfortable for pets travelling during the cooler months.
Coming in a close second was New South Wales’ Grand Pacific Drive, scoring 78.8 out of 100. The scenic coastal route impressed with its abundance of pet-friendly cafes, restaurants and trails, alongside an impressive concentration of scenic attractions and lookouts.
Rounding out the top three was the Legendary Pacific Coast, which stretches between New South Wales and Queensland. The route earned high marks for its balanced mix of pet-friendly amenities and strong safety credentials, particularly its access to veterinary clinics.
The safest routes for travelling with pets
Safety remains one of the biggest considerations for pet owners planning a road trip, especially in Australia where encounters with snakes and other wildlife are possible.
The Legendary Pacific Coast ranked highest for safety, offering the greatest density of veterinary clinics of any route analysed. With regional towns dotted along the journey between Sydney and Brisbane, travellers are rarely far from professional veterinary care if needed.
Cape to Cape again performed strongly, benefiting from one of the lowest recorded densities of venomous snake observations in the study.
The Great Barrier Reef Drive in Far North Queensland also featured among the safest routes, balancing access to veterinary services with manageable wildlife risks.
More than just pet-friendly
While practical considerations matter, many travellers are equally interested in finding routes that offer memorable experiences for both pets and owners.
The Grand Pacific Drive dominated the study’s experience category, boasting more than 328 scenic points of interest and dog-friendly trails per 100 kilometres. Its dramatic coastline, ocean lookouts and accessible walking tracks make it one of Australia’s most photogenic road trips.
The Great Ocean Road and Cape to Cape also performed strongly, combining spectacular scenery with infrastructure that welcomes dogs.
According to ROLLiN’ Executive Manager Brendan Griffiths, more Australians are prioritising pet-friendly travel when planning holidays.
‘Many Aussies want to explore the country and create lasting memories with their furry companions,’ Griffiths said.
‘Ranking Australia’s most pet-friendly road trips is about helping travellers enjoy unforgettable adventures with their pets while ensuring everyone arrives safely at every stop.’
Planning ahead is key
While the study highlights plenty of pet-friendly options around Australia, travellers heading into more remote regions should be prepared.
Routes such as Gibb River Road, the Nullarbor Plain and Tasmania’s Western Wilds scored lower due to limited access to accommodation, veterinary services and pet-friendly facilities.
For pet owners willing to venture off the beaten track, careful planning, regular rest stops and emergency preparation remain essential.
As winter travel season ramps up, the findings offer plenty of inspiration for Australians looking to hit the road with their canine companion and discover some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes together.