Is Travelodge Dog-Friendly? The Complete Guide

Finding a budget hotel that welcomes dogs can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Premier Inn says no. Many chains have complicated policies that vary by location. But there's good news for dog owners: Travelodge welcomes dogs at every single one of their 580+ UK hotels.

I've stayed in Travelodges across Britain with Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly. From motorway stops on long journeys to city centre locations for exploring new places, they've been a reliable, affordable option when travelling with dogs. This guide covers everything you need to know about staying at Travelodge with your dog.

The Short Answer: Yes, Travelodge is Dog-Friendly

All Travelodge hotels in the UK accept dogs. This isn't a case of checking individual locations or hoping for the best. Every single property welcomes well-behaved dogs, making Travelodge one of the most consistently dog-friendly hotel chains in Britain.

Key facts:

• All 580+ UK locations accept dogs
• Up to 2 dogs per room
• £20 per dog per stay (not per night)
• Dogs and cats both welcome
• Assistance dogs stay free

This blanket policy sets Travelodge apart from many competitors. There's no need to filter search results, call ahead to check, or worry about availability of pet-friendly rooms. If there's a Travelodge, your dog is welcome.

How Much Does Travelodge Charge for Dogs?

Travelodge charges a flat fee of £20 per dog per stay, regardless of how many nights you book. This is one of the most competitive rates among UK hotel chains and excellent value for longer stays.

How the fee works:

The fee covers deep cleaning of your room after checkout. Since it's charged per stay rather than per night, Travelodge becomes increasingly good value the longer you stay.

Assistance dogs: Guide dogs, hearing dogs and other registered assistance dogs are exempt from the fee. Select "no pets" when booking online, then inform the hotel you're travelling with an assistance dog so they can prepare an appropriate room.

How to Book a Dog-Friendly Room at Travelodge

Booking with a dog at Travelodge is straightforward:

Online booking (recommended):

1. Go to travelodge.co.uk
2. Enter your destination and dates
3. Select your room type
4. On the "Extras" page, choose "Add a pet"
5. Specify the number of dogs (maximum 2)
6. Complete payment including the pet fee

By phone: Call Travelodge reservations and mention you're travelling with a dog. They'll add the pet fee to your booking.

At check-in: If you've forgotten to add your dog to an existing booking, you can pay the pet fee at reception. However, booking in advance is recommended to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Top tip: Request a ground floor room when booking. This makes toilet breaks much easier, especially for late night or early morning outings. Mention this preference when booking online or call the hotel directly.

Room Types Available

Dogs are welcome in all Travelodge room types:

• Standard rooms: The basic option, perfectly adequate for overnight stays
• SuperRooms: Upgraded rooms with better amenities, dogs equally welcome
• Family rooms: Larger rooms suitable if travelling with children and dogs
• Accessible rooms: Ground floor rooms with adapted facilities

The pet fee remains £20 per dog regardless of room type. If you're staying multiple nights, a SuperRoom with a bit more space might make the experience more comfortable for everyone.

Applying Discount Codes

Travelodge frequently offers promotional codes and discounts. These can be combined with pet fees:

1. Find a valid Travelodge discount code
2. Complete your booking as normal, including adding pets
3. Apply the discount code before payment
4. The discount applies to the room rate; the pet fee remains £20

This can significantly reduce overall costs, especially for longer stays or bookings made well in advance.

Travelodge Dog Policy: The Rules

Understanding Travelodge's dog rules ensures a smooth stay:

Dogs Cannot Be Left Unattended

This is the most important rule. Dogs must not be left alone in the room or public areas at any time. This policy prevents:

• Barking disturbing other guests
• Potential damage to the room
• Distress to your dog in an unfamiliar environment

Plan your activities accordingly. If you need to visit somewhere dogs can't go, you'll need to take turns or make alternative arrangements.

Keep Dogs on Lead in Public Areas

In corridors, reception, and other shared spaces, dogs must be on a lead. This is standard practice in most hotels and ensures comfort for all guests, including those who may be nervous around dogs.

Dogs Not Allowed in Restaurant Areas

Travelodge's Bar Cafe areas don't permit dogs (assistance dogs excepted). If you want to eat at the hotel, one person stays with the dog in the room while the other dines, or you eat in the room.

Well-Behaved Dogs Only

Your dog is expected to:

• Not bark excessively
• Not damage the room or furnishings
• Not jump on other guests or staff
• Remain under control at all times

If your dog struggles in new environments or tends to bark when anxious, consider whether a hotel stay is appropriate, or work on acclimatisation before travelling.

Maximum Two Dogs Per Room

You can bring up to two dogs per room. If travelling with more dogs, you'll need to book additional rooms.

What Travelodge Provides (and Doesn't Provide)

Travelodge operates as a budget hotel chain, so don't expect luxury pet amenities. Here's what to expect:

Provided:

• Basic room accommodation
• Access for your dog

Not typically provided:

• Dog beds
• Food and water bowls
• Dog treats
• Dog towels

What to bring:

Pack everything your dog needs for the stay. For a complete list, see our dog travel essentials guide. At minimum, bring:

• Your dog's bed or a familiar blanket
• Food and water bowls (collapsible bowls work well)
• Enough food for the stay plus extra
• Water from home for the first day
• Poo bags
• Towels for drying wet or muddy dogs
• Any regular medications

Some individual Travelodge locations may offer bowls or beds, but this varies and isn't guaranteed. Always bring your own supplies.

Tips for a Successful Travelodge Stay with Your Dog

Before Your Stay

Check the location: Not all Travelodge locations are equally convenient for dog owners. Look for:

• Nearby green spaces or parks for walks
• Easy access to outdoor areas from the hotel
• Ground floor availability
• Car park proximity to entrance (useful when unloading with a dog)

Research the area: Use Google Maps to identify:

• The nearest patch of grass for toilet breaks
• Local parks for proper walks
• Dog-friendly cafes or pubs nearby if you want to eat out
• Emergency vet locations just in case

Exercise before arrival: A tired dog settles more easily. Stop at a park or walking area before reaching the hotel, letting your dog burn off energy and use the toilet.

Bring familiar items: Your dog's regular bed or blanket carries comforting scents from home. In an unfamiliar environment, this familiarity helps dogs settle and sleep better.

Feed appropriately: Consider feeding your dog a few hours before arrival rather than immediately before. This reduces the chance of car sickness and gives time for digestion and toilet needs before settling for the night.

During Your Stay

Establish a routine: Dogs thrive on routine. Maintain regular feeding times and walk schedules as closely as possible.

Manage toilet breaks: Plan regular outdoor trips. Ground floor rooms make this much easier, especially during the night or early morning. Work out your route from room to outdoor space during daylight so night-time trips are straightforward.

Keep the room clean: Wipe muddy paws before entering, and clean up any accidents immediately. Bring your own cleaning supplies just in case, including:

• Old towels for paw wiping
• Enzyme cleaner for accidents
• Lint roller for furniture

Respect other guests: Keep noise to a minimum, especially during evening and early morning hours. If your dog barks, address it promptly. Consider bringing a Kong or long-lasting chew to keep your dog occupied during settling periods.

Temperature management: Travelodge rooms can get warm. Ensure your dog has access to water and isn't overheating, particularly in summer. Most rooms have adjustable heating and fans, but air conditioning isn't standard in all locations.

Supervise constantly: Never leave your dog alone in the room, even briefly. If you need to visit the car or grab something from reception, take your dog with you.

At Checkout

Check the room: Before leaving, do a quick sweep for any dog hair, mess, or damage. While Travelodge will deep clean after your stay, leaving the room reasonably tidy is courteous.

Report any issues: If accidents have happened or there's any damage, be upfront with reception. Honesty is appreciated and expected.

Final toilet break: Before loading the car for departure, take your dog for a final toilet break. This sets you up well for the next leg of your journey.

Potential Challenges and How to Handle Them

Anxious Dogs in New Environments

Some dogs struggle with unfamiliar places. If your dog is anxious:

• Bring familiar bedding with strong home scents
• Maintain your usual routine as much as possible
• Exercise thoroughly before settling for the night
• Consider calming products (sprays, treats, or plug-in diffusers)
• Stay calm yourself, as dogs pick up on owner anxiety

If your dog has severe separation anxiety or tends to bark when stressed, honestly assess whether hotel stays are appropriate. A stressed dog disturbing other guests creates problems for everyone.

Barking and Noise

Travelodge walls aren't soundproof. A barking dog will disturb neighbours quickly. Strategies to minimise barking:

• Tire your dog out before settling
• Provide mental stimulation (Kongs, puzzle toys)
• Position your dog's bed away from the door
• Use white noise (TV or phone app) to mask corridor sounds
• Don't leave your dog alone

If your dog does bark, address it immediately. Other guests have every right to complain, and persistent issues could result in you being asked to leave.

Temperature Issues

Budget hotels sometimes have limited climate control:

• Overheating: Request a room away from boiler rooms, ensure windows can open or fans are available, bring extra water, avoid top floor rooms in summer
• Cold rooms: Bring extra blankets for your dog, check heating works on arrival

Limited Space

Travelodge rooms are functional rather than spacious:

• Bring a compact travel bed that fits without blocking walkways
• Collapsible bowls save space
• Keep your luggage organised to maximise floor space for your dog
• Consider upgrading to a SuperRoom or Family room for more space

Is Travelodge Right for Your Dog?

Travelodge works well for:

• Road trip stopovers: A reliable overnight base when travelling long distances
• Budget-conscious travellers: Affordable dog-friendly accommodation
• Well-behaved, adaptable dogs: Dogs who settle easily in new places
• Short stays: One or two nights work better than extended periods
• Owners who'll be present: Since dogs can't be left alone

Travelodge may not suit:

• Anxious or reactive dogs: The unfamiliar environment and proximity to other guests may cause stress
• Extended stays: Limited space and facilities make week-long stays less comfortable
• Those wanting luxury: No dog amenities, basic room facilities
• Dogs who bark when alone: Since you can't leave them and walls are thin

Be honest about your dog's temperament. A hotel stay should be enjoyable, not stressful, for both of you.

Best Travelodge Locations for Dog Owners

While all Travelodges accept dogs, some locations work better for dog owners than others. Here are destinations where Travelodge provides a good base for dog-friendly exploration:

Lake District

Travelodge Kendal sits at the gateway to the Lake District, offering affordable accommodation within easy reach of Windermere, Ambleside and countless walks. Other Lake District area options include Penrith and Carlisle. The Kendal location has nearby green space and is well-positioned for early starts into the Lakes.

Peak District

Travelodge Chesterfield provides access to the southern Peak District, while Sheffield locations offer northern Peak access. Good for walking holidays on a budget. Multiple Sheffield options mean you can choose based on your planned routes.

Yorkshire

York Central Micklegate Travelodge puts you in the heart of this historic city, perfect for exploring Yorkshire with your dog. Scarborough and Whitby locations work well for coastal breaks, with beaches within easy reach. The York location is central but check parking arrangements if driving.

Cornwall and Devon

Travelodge has multiple locations across Cornwall and Devon, from Newquay to Plymouth, Exeter to Bodmin. Useful for budget-friendly West Country holidays. The Bodmin and Exeter locations provide good bases for exploring both counties.

Scotland

From Edinburgh and Glasgow to Inverness and Fort William, Travelodge covers key Scottish destinations. The Fort William location is particularly useful for Highlands exploration and sits near excellent walking. Edinburgh locations near the Royal Mile provide city break options with Holyrood Park nearby for dog walks.

Wales

Travelodge locations in Cardiff, Swansea, and various North Wales spots provide budget bases for Welsh adventures. The Llandudno location works well for Snowdonia access.

Coastal Towns

Brighton, Bournemouth, Great Yarmouth, Blackpool and numerous other seaside locations offer Travelodge options for beach holidays with dogs. Check beach dog policies locally, as restrictions vary by season.

Motorway Stops

For long journeys, Travelodge's motorway locations provide convenient overnight stops. Break up your drive with a proper rest, giving both you and your dog time to recover before continuing. Popular motorway service area Travelodges include those at Welcome Break and Moto services along major routes. Check our travelling with dogs guide for journey planning tips.

How Travelodge Compares to Other Budget Hotels

Travelodge isn't the only option for budget-conscious dog owners, but it compares favourably to many competitors.

Premier Inn

Policy: Does NOT allow dogs (assistance dogs only)

Premier Inn operates a strict no-pets policy across all 800+ UK hotels. This makes Travelodge the clear budget choice for dog owners. If you've previously stayed at Premier Inn, you'll need to switch to Travelodge or another chain when travelling with your dog.

Ibis Hotels

Policy: Most locations accept dogs Fee: Typically £10 per night per dog

Ibis hotels welcome dogs at most UK locations, charging around £10 per night. For single night stays, this can be cheaper than Travelodge's £20 flat fee. For stays of 2+ nights, Travelodge becomes better value.

Pros: Cheaper for one-night stays, some locations provide bowls Cons: Not all locations accept dogs, per-night charging adds up on longer stays

Best Western

Policy: Over 100 of 250+ UK hotels accept dogs Fee: Varies by hotel, typically £10-20 per night

Best Western offers higher quality than basic budget chains, with many dog-friendly locations. However, not all hotels accept dogs, and fees are usually charged per night.

Pros: Higher quality accommodation, some hotels offer dog menus and beds Cons: Not all locations accept dogs, must check individually, higher base room rates

Holiday Inn

Policy: Over 100 UK hotels accept dogs Fee: Varies by location

Holiday Inn welcomes dogs at many but not all UK locations. As with Best Western, you'll need to check individual hotels.

Pros: Good quality, restaurant facilities, loyalty programmes Cons: Not all locations accept dogs, more expensive than budget options

Days Inn

Policy: Most UK locations accept dogs Fee: Around £10 per night

Days Inn operates budget hotels, often at motorway services, with dog-friendly policies at most locations.

Pros: Budget-friendly, convenient locations for road trips Cons: Basic facilities, limited locations compared to Travelodge

Quick Comparison Table

For dog owners who value simplicity and consistency, Travelodge's universal acceptance of dogs at all locations is a significant advantage. You can book with confidence knowing your dog will be welcome.

Alternatives to Travelodge for Dog-Friendly Stays

While Travelodge offers excellent value and convenience, other accommodation types may suit different needs:

Dog-Friendly Hotels

For a step up in quality, many independent and chain hotels welcome dogs with additional amenities like dog beds, treats, and walking recommendations. Expect to pay more but receive a more tailored experience.

Dog-Friendly Cottages

Self-catering cottages offer space, enclosed gardens, and home comforts. Better for longer stays or when you want your dog to have more freedom.

Dog-Friendly B&Bs and Pubs with Rooms

Pubs with rooms often combine character accommodation with dog-friendly bars and restaurants. A more personal alternative to chain hotels.

Dog-Friendly Lodges and Glamping

Lodges and glamping options provide outdoor-focused accommodation perfect for active dog holidays.

Book Your Stay

Ready to book a dog-friendly Travelodge? Use our accommodation finder to compare options across all hotel types and find the best fit for your trip.

Find Dog-Friendly Accommodation

Whether Travelodge fits your needs or you'd prefer a cottage, hotel, or lodge, we help you find places where your dog is genuinely welcome.

FAQs

Are all Travelodge hotels dog-friendly?

Yes, all 580+ Travelodge hotels in the UK accept dogs. Unlike many hotel chains where policies vary by location, Travelodge's dog-friendly policy is universal. You don't need to check individual hotels or filter for pet-friendly rooms.

How much does Travelodge charge for dogs?

Travelodge charges £20 per dog per stay, not per night. This means a one-night stay costs the same as a week-long stay in terms of the pet fee. Up to two dogs are allowed per room. Assistance dogs stay free.

Can I leave my dog alone in a Travelodge room?

No, dogs cannot be left unattended in the room or any public area at any time. This is Travelodge's policy to prevent barking, damage, and distress. Plan your activities to ensure someone is always with your dog.

Does Travelodge provide dog beds or bowls?

Travelodge is a budget chain and doesn't typically provide dog amenities. Bring your own bed or blanket, food and water bowls, and all supplies your dog needs. Some individual locations may offer basics, but don't rely on this.

Is Premier Inn dog-friendly?

No, Premier Inn does not allow dogs at any of their 800+ UK hotels, with the exception of registered assistance dogs. If you need a budget dog-friendly hotel, Travelodge is the main alternative among major chains.

Can I bring two dogs to Travelodge?

Yes, Travelodge allows up to two dogs per room. Each dog incurs a £20 fee (so £40 total for two dogs). If travelling with more than two dogs, you'll need to book an additional room.

How do I book a dog-friendly room at Travelodge?

When booking on the Travelodge website, proceed through the normal booking process until you reach the "Extras" page. Select "Add a pet" and specify the number of dogs. The £20 per dog fee will be added to your total. You can also book by phone or add pets at check-in.

Are there weight or breed restrictions at Travelodge?

Travelodge doesn't publish specific weight or breed restrictions. The policy focuses on dogs being well-behaved, under control, and not causing disturbance. If you have a large or unusual breed, the hotel expects the same behaviour standards as for any dog.

Final Thoughts

Travelodge stands out as the most consistently dog-friendly budget hotel chain in the UK. With dogs welcomed at every location and a simple, flat-rate fee structure, they've made travelling with dogs genuinely straightforward.

The accommodation is basic, and you won't find luxury dog amenities, but that's not what Travelodge is about. What they offer is affordable, reliable, dog-friendly accommodation in over 580 locations across Britain. For road trip stops, budget city breaks, or affordable bases for exploring the countryside, Travelodge delivers.

I've used Travelodge countless times with Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly. They've been there for motorway overnight stops, pre-early-morning-ferry stopovers, and budget bases for longer explorations. The consistency of their dog policy means one less thing to worry about when planning trips.

Pack your dog's bed, bring your own supplies, and enjoy the freedom of knowing there's a dog-friendly Travelodge waiting almost wherever you want to go.

Happy travels.

Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max, Molly and Luke

Continue Planning Your Trip

For more on travelling with dogs, explore our complete travel guide covering car, train, ferry and air travel. Find dog-friendly hotels beyond budget chains, or browse cottages, lodges and glamping for self-catering alternatives.

Discover destinations across the UK: Lake District, Cornwall, Scotland, Yorkshire, and Wales.

Hotel policies can change. Always verify current terms directly with Travelodge before booking.