How to Cross-Country Solo With Your Cat

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|Updated on December 31, 2025|

Starting a solo road trip can feel exciting and scary at the same time, especially when you’re traveling with a pet. After years of overthinking and making excuses, I finally did it and took a solo road trip from Chicago to Florida with my cat.

In this guide, I share my real experience, the challenges I faced, and the lessons I learned along the way. If you’re thinking about traveling cross-country with your cat, this will help you feel more prepared and confident.

Overcoming Fear and Taking the Leap

For years, fears and doubts stopped this trip from happening. Worries about my cat’s comfort, long hours in the car, and driving alone for days always got in the way. But at the beginning of 2024, something shifted.

One morning, after watching a motivational video, I made a spontaneous decision to finally go for it. I booked the first hotel that same day, packed up, put my cat in the car, and hit the road, no more overthinking, just action.

The Route: Chicago to Florida Journey

On the Road: From Chicago to Goodlettsville, Tennessee

Leaving Chicago behind, I set out on my solo road trip adventure. The first leg of the journey took me to Goodlettsville, Tennessee, and the whole drive from Chicago to Goodlettsville took me about 7 hours on a full tank of gas. I had an overnight stay at a Holiday Inn Express. While the cost for the night was a bit high, using my loyalty points helped lessen the burden. Keep in mind that many hotels charge a pet fee, usually starting at $50.

I had no idea about that charge at first, as I didn’t see the information about it on the site I booked with, so I was not pleasantly surprised. After a restful night, I headed to another destination – Atlanta.

Atlanta and Jacksonville

Continuing my journey, I stopped in the Atlanta suburb (Mableton). There, I stayed at an amazing Airbnb with fantastic hosts and great amenities like a home gym and pool. After three days of staying there (as I had to work during the week), I headed to Jacksonville, Florida, for a quick overnight stay at a Baymont by Wyndham hotel.

Though the hotel was basic, it was clean and provided a comfortable place to rest for the night. And after the short night stop at Jacksonville, I finally headed to the last leg of my trip – Fort Lauderdale.

Driving and Fueling Up

The driving times ranged from 5 to 7.5 hours between each destination. I made sure to fill up my gas tank strategically, stopping at gas stations along the way. Gas prices varied at each destination, with Tennessee offering the cheapest rates at $2.99 per gallon for a full tank, followed by Atlanta at $3.19 per gallon for half a tank, and Jacksonville at $3.29 per gallon for half a tank.

Despite my worries, my cat was doing well for hours in the car. She accommodated fast to the motion of the car without any trouble. However, it is known that long car rides may be stressful for cats, so try to make your pet as comfortable as possible.

Staying Energized: Snacks and Podcasts

To stay energized during the long drives, I packed snacks and hot tea, which lasted me for hours. I also loaded up my phone with podcasts to keep me entertained. You must travel with such comfort supplies handy because you will be in your car for several hours. And it will take some stress off the road-tipping with your cat adventure, even making it more exciting and enjoyable!

By the way, I didn’t make any stops, so I was solely driving to get to my destination as fast as I could (within the speed limit, of course).

Challenges and Solutions

Traveling with my cat made the trip even more adventurous. She was mostly calm, but got restless, especially toward the end of long drives. To keep her comfortable, I covered her carrier with a blanket to reduce noise and spent time gently petting her when she meowed.

Embrace the Journey

Despite some challenges, my solo road trip was a rewarding experience filled with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re traveling alone or with a furry friend, don’t let fear hold you back from exploring the world. Embrace the journey and step out of your comfort zone. You never know what amazing adventures await!

Traveling With Furry Company

One of the most rewarding parts of my road trip was experiencing it with my beloved cat. At 12 years old, I wasn’t sure how she would handle the journey, but she surprised me with her adaptability and resilience.

At first, she meowed and was a bit restless, but soon she settled into the trip. She slept most of the time, was fine in hotels and new places, explored a little, ate well, and used the litter box normally.

Of course, there were moments of challenge, like her meowing during the final stretch, but overall she adjusted really well. Traveling with a cat can be unpredictable, even on short trips, so a long road trip is a bigger challenge, but it’s completely doable, and we had a safe and enjoyable experience.

Accommodations and Pit Stops

Finding suitable accommodations along the way was crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable road trip experience. I opted for a mix of hotels and Airbnb stays, taking advantage of loyalty points and online reviews to ensure a pleasant stay.

From the luxurious amenities of an Airbnb in Atlanta to the basic yet clean accommodations of a hotel in Jacksonville, each stop offered its unique charm.

However, it’s important to note (as I mentioned earlier) that many hotels charge a pet fee, so be prepared for additional expenses when you travel with a furry companion. Once you get to the location, give your cat a chance to sniff around the room so she/he gets comfortable and adjust to the new place.

Navigating the Road With Your Feline Friend

Before you plan for such an experience, consider the duration of your trip. Whether your cat is used to car trips or not, you will still need to accommodate her the entire time. From cat-friendly hotels to a comfortable cat carrier in the car, food, and water, all these details are important to cover all your cat’s needs. The comfort of your cat in the car is very important for both of you to have a good time.

Here are some additional travel tips for a smooth journey if you take your cat with you:

Safety First

Before hitting the road, make sure your cat is secure in a well-ventilated carrier that is large enough for her to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If you travel by car, this will not only keep her safe in the event of sudden stops or accidents but also prevent her from becoming a distraction during a long trip.

It is wise to make sure your cat has a microchip implanted just in case she gets lost. After all, no matter how much care you have for her, accidents happen. Also, bring a leash with you if you decide to let your cat explore the surroundings a bit, and give her a sense of more freedom and relaxation. Keep your cat within your sight and make sure you provide enough food and water.

Comfort

Create a cozy and familiar environment for your cat inside the car by bringing along her favorite blanket, toys, and bedding. You know your cat best, so it will be easy to decide what to bring. Familiar scents and objects can help reduce stress and anxiety during the journey, making long-distance road-tripping a more pleasant experience for your feline friend. So, if your cat has a favorite item, bring it on, as it will give her a sense of home.

Hydration and Nutrition

Your cat will need to stay hydrated throughout the trip by providing access to fresh water at regular intervals. While dogs and cats can go several hours without food, it’s essential to pack their favorite snacks or treats to offer them during rest stops.

Additionally, avoid feeding your cat a large meal right before the trip to prevent motion sickness. I fed mine with half a can of food 2 hours before, and she was fine for the rest of the trip. Also, cats can hold their urine for several hours, so you will not need to worry about frequent stops due to such necessities.

Rest

You can plan regular breaks during your journey to allow your cat to stretch her legs, use the travel litter box, and take a break from the confines of their carrier. Use these rest stops as an opportunity to bond with your cat and provide reassurance and comfort during the journey. I didn’t have any stops, and it was fine for me, but if you need to stop, you can do that along the way.

Health and Well-Being

Prioritize your cat’s health and well-being by keeping up-to-date on vaccinations and ensuring they are microchipped and wearing a collar with identification tags. Additionally, research veterinary clinics along your route in case of emergencies, and pack a first-aid kit with essential supplies for your cat.

Don’t leave your cat alone in the car too long. Your cat should be near you at all times, as she feels safer. 5-10 minutes to use the restroom will be fine. It is also important to give it space to move around and time to adjust to the entire experience. After all, it is a completely new environment for them, and you will notice a certain level of anxiety. But cats travel well when all their needs are met, and they are near you.

Embracing the Adventure Together

Traveling with a cat can be a unique and enriching experience that deepens the bond between you and your furry companion, and many cats will enjoy such an experience. Whether it’s exploring new destinations, enjoying scenic drives, or simply sharing quiet moments, embarking on a road trip with your cat opens up a world of possibilities for unforgettable adventures.

Final Thoughts

A solo road trip from Chicago to Florida with my cat pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to discover the beauty of the unknown. By overcoming fear and embracing spontaneity, I embarked on a journey filled with unforgettable moments and invaluable lessons.

For anyone considering a solo adventure, I urge you to take the leap and embrace the freedom of the open road. And if you were wondering how to cross-country solo with your cat, I hope you found this guide helpful.

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