Best Dog Beds for Camping

Camping wouldn’t be the same for many pet parents without their fur babies. After all, what better way to enjoy the great outdoors than with your four-legged best friend by your side? But when it comes to finding the perfect dog beds for camping, there are a few things you need to consider. 

Size, durability, and portability are just a few factors to keep in mind when choosing a pet bed for your next outing. To help you make the best choice for your pup, we’ve narrowed the list of the best dog beds for camping. You’ll find a portable option, a pet cot, an outdoor mattress, and a rugged model by a well-known name that works in a tent or a house.

1. Chuckit! Travel Pillow Dog Bed 

When you’re ready to hit the hiking trail or portability is essential, the Chuckit! Travel Pillow dog bed will make your life much easier. It rolls up to fit into its own stuff sack but still has some heft, so your pup won’t feel every little rock or twig on the ground. Even though it only comes in one size, the 39” oval is enough for most breeds.

Chuckit!’s travel dog bed is made of nylon and suede. The entire thing is machine washable, so if you get a little messy out in the woods, the mud will wash away as soon as you get home. And, popping it in the included travel bag will contain the mess in the meantime. 

Bottom Line – The ChuckIt! travel dog bed model is an excellent option for hardcore campers who are roughing it. It’s easy to transport and provides just enough cushioning to keep your fur baby comfortable sleeping under the stars. But, it’s not just a great dog bed for camping. You can store it in your vehicle and unroll it for long car trips. 

2. FurHaven – Deluxe Orthopedic Indoor-Outdoor Bed 

The FurHaven Deluxe Orthopedic Indoor-Outdoor dog bed isn’t going to roll up like the ChuckIt! Model. However, if you can transport it easily, it’s a more comfortable option for your fur baby with up to 5” of orthopedic padding.

When you need a dog bed for camping, you want it to hold up to the elements, and this one will do the trick. The cover is removable, but a damp cloth should be all you need to make it good as new. FurHaven is also generous with size availability. So, you can buy this mattress-style bed for puppies or Great Danes!

Bottom Line – We’ve included this particular FurHaven model in a few of our blogs as it’s a simple dog bed at a decent price point that works for different situations. Not only is it an indoor-outdoor bed, but the orthopedic mattress is almost a necessity for some pups, especially as they get older. 

3. Carhartt – Duck Canvas Dog Bed

Carhartt’s duck canvas dog bed isn’t for a rugged wilderness trip. But if you’re sleeping in a cabin or have a decent tent with a floor liner, your pup will appreciate the effort. This option features the same thick material used on the famous Carhartt jacket. The canvas has a water-repellent coating that’ll withstand (most of) the elements.

It might seem counterintuitive because the Carhartt dog bed is one of the most expensive on our list, but it can be a money saver. This particular model is a go-to for both indoor and outdoor use. It’s a simple cushion-style dog bed for camping, the backyard, or the corner of your bedroom.

Bottom Line – We like the versatility of the Carhartt dog bed. It’s a bit like the FurHaven indoor-outdoor orthopedic model but better for everyday use. It’s designed to be more like an in-home bed, but the washable fabric with its water-repellent coating gives you options.

4. Kuranda – Cot-Style Dog Bed 

Kuranda takes a different approach to dog beds for camping. It throws away the cushion and the foam fill to produce an elevated product resembling a military-style cot. The bed features a choice of aluminum or PVC for the structure itself. Then, pick one of four fabrics that stretch over the frame, including heavy-duty 40 oz. vinyl, textured nylon, outdoor mesh, or smooth nylon.

It comes apart for portability and is height-adjustable. So, if you’re a traditional camper and turn to sleeping bags, your fur baby will have the edge. The cot-style keeps dogs cool and comfortable – off the ground.

Accessories – Kuranda produces a similar model for crates. So, if you feel more comfortable having your pup in a crate while camping, an elevated bed will make them more comfortable! Also, Kuranda has fleece blankets for warmth. They attach to the legs so that a little wind won’t send them sailing.

Bottom Line – When it comes to a designated dog bed for camping, you can’t get much better than the Kuranda cot. You can take it apart and put it together in just a few minutes. The fabric is easy to clean with a hose or wet rag, and there’s no mattress to damage if the weather isn’t the most cooperative. Plus, it’s a must-have for dogs with muscle or joint problems.

What are the easiest to clean dog beds for camping?

Life is much easier at clean-up time if you opt for one of two types of dog beds for camping. The first is a cot-style dog bed. It features canvas or vinyl stretched across a lightweight frame. Grab the hose and give it a shot, and it’s like new. Another easy-to-clean dog bed is one designated for indoor-outdoor use. Some have machine washable covers, but most just need a wet rag – or grab the hose again.

Are there dog beds for camping that’ll keep my dog warm?

We wouldn’t recommend dog beds with electric warmers or those labeled as self-warming because they’re not outdoor models. However, you can accomplish the same thing with accessories. Today’s pet product providers have impressive collections of blankets and self-warming pads that’ll keep your pup toasty – and safe.

Can you recommend a portable dog bed for hiking and camping?

A good outdoor bed will work fine if you’re pulling your vehicle up to your designated camping spot or cabin. However, when you require portability, we recommend a rollable dog bed with a bag that you can throw over your shoulder. Another option is a cot-style dog bed for camping, as the frame comes apart and the fabric folds or rolls.

What should I look for in the best indoor-outdoor beds for camping?

The best dog beds for camping should be lightweight, easy-to-clean, and water-resistant. There are quite a few styles available. But many of the portable pillows are one-size-fits-all. So, you want to be sure to start your search by size if you have a large or jumbo breed pup.

Tips for Buying the Best Dog Beds for Camping

Is Portability a Requirement? – The best camping dog beds for you depend on your plans. Are you sleeping in a cabin? Are you pulling your car up to your designated spot? If you’re hiking to a destination, then a portable dog bed (one that rolls or disassembles) is a must. But, if not, then shop for a quality outdoor bed. 

Removable Covers – If you’re purchasing an outdoor dog bed with a mattress or some type of fill, a removable cover is a must. Even if you can’t machine wash it, you can give it a good hand wash and spot clean the pillow if needed.

Warming and Cooling –  Don’t forget about the elements when buying a dog bed for camping. An elevated cot-style model is an excellent choice when you have a pup who needs to be cooled down. On the other hand, accessories are the way to go to keep your fur baby warm. We recommend self-warming pads or blankets that attach to the bed, so you don’t lose them.

Cots Keep Pups Off the Ground – An elevated bed resembling a typical camping cot is excellent for all dogs. But if you have an aging pup with joint or muscle problems, it’s almost a necessity when you’re sleeping outside. The height makes it easier for them in and out of bed, and they don’t have to put up with the uneven ground, rocks, or sticks underneath.