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Starting on a solo road trip can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, especially when you have a furry companion to consider. After years of hesitation and countless excuses, I finally took the leap and embarked on a solo road trip from Chicago to Florida with my cat. In this ultimate guide, I’ll share my journey, the challenges I faced, and the invaluable lessons I learned along the way. Without further ado, here’s how to cross-country solo with your cat!

How to Cross-Country Solo With Your Cat (Chicago to Florida)

Overcoming Fear and Taking the Leap

For several years, I had been plagued by fears and doubts that prevented me from pursuing my dream of a cross-country road trip with my cat. Concerns about my cat’s well-being, the reliability of the car ride, and the daunting prospect of driving solo for long distances constantly held me back. However, at the beginning of 2024, I reached a tipping point.

 

Fueled by a newfound determination and inspiration from a motivational video, I made a spontaneous decision to finally embark on my long-awaited adventure. With the first hotel booked the same morning and my cat by my side, I set out into the unknown.

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 Goodletsville 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 the restful night, I headed to another destination – Atlanta.

Venturing Onward: 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 a 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 whole 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 for several hours in your car. 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 added an extra layer of adventure. While she was mostly quiet and content, there were moments of restlessness, especially during the final stretch. To keep her comfortable, I covered the cat in the carrier with a blanket to minimize outside noise. And at the time she was a little upset and meowing, so I tried to pet her to calm down a bit.

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 aspects of my road trip was experiencing it with my beloved cat. While I initially had concerns about how she would fare on the journey (she is 12 years old by the way), she surprised me with her adaptability and resilience.

 

Despite some initial meowing and restlessness, she quickly settled into the rhythm of the road trip, sleeping peacefully for much of the journey. I made sure to cover her carrier with a blanket to minimize outside noise and provide a sense of security. She was also fine at the hotels and each new apartment. She was happy to explore new places, ate, and poopped normally as well.

 

Although there were moments of challenge, such as her prolonged meowing during the final stretch, I was amazed by her ability to adjust to life on the road. When you travel with your cat, you can’t fully predict how they will react even if you go for a short trip. So taking your cat on a long-distance road trip can be even more challenging. It might help to drive around the block a few times to get them adjusted to the motion of the car. But I managed to have a great and safe experience without such preparation.

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. I recommend setting your accommodation before your trip. Once you get to the location, give your cat a chance to sniff around the room so they get 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 them 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.

 

Traveling with a cat can present its own set of challenges, but with proper preparation and care, it can also be a rewarding experience for both you and your furry companion (be it a cat or a dog). 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 them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If you travel by car, this will not only keep them safe in the event of sudden stops or accidents but also prevent them from becoming a distraction during a long trip.

 

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

 

Comfort

Create a cozy and familiar environment for your cat inside the car by bringing along their favorite blanket, toys, and bedding. You know your cat best so it will be easy to decide what to bring for them. 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 them 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 in the morning of the trip to prevent motion sickness. I fed mine with half a canned food 2 hours before and she was fine for the rest of the trip.  Also, cats can hold their urine for some 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 their 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 they feel more safe. 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.

 

As you navigate the open road together, cherish the moments of connection and companionship, and embrace the shared experiences that will create lasting memories for years to come. Once you get your cat used to such adventures, you can have a great trip companion every time.

 

Lessons Learned and Future Adventures

As I reflect on my solo road trip experience, I am filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment. Overcoming my fears and embracing the unknown has been incredibly empowering, and I am eager to embark on future adventures with my cat by my side.

 

From learning to trust my instincts to discovering the joy of spontaneous travel, this journey has taught me invaluable lessons that will stay with me for a lifetime. Whether it’s exploring new destinations or simply stepping out of my comfort zone, I am excited to continue pushing the boundaries of solo travel.

 

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.

 

If you’re going on a long-distance road trip with a furry companion, don’t let fear hold you back – with a little preparation and a lot of love, you can create memories that will last a lifetime. Your cat might react differently than mine but they will most likely learn to enjoy the adventure! You want your cat to be safe and comfortable so that you can enjoy your trip with as little bumps in the road as possible.

 

In the comments section below, feel free to share your road trip with your cat experiences or ask any questions you may have about embarking on a road trip with your furry friend! Thank you for stopping by :).

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