After isolation, you might be as ready as I am to grab your pup, a special someone, and hit the road for an overdue getaway.

If you’re in a new relationship, the first trip with a new love interest can feel intimidating. So why not bring the best third wheel there is on your trip: your WingPet! Planning a trip to a pet-friendly destination might sound rough, but with just a little planning you and your partner will be hopping around happily at the thought of your upcoming trip.

Is it too soon?

Before you hit the road with your significant other and the pet(s), consider that traveling with a partner is a big step in your relationship. Even a short weekend on the road can test your relationship in ways you didn’t expect.

“A vacation is a great opportunity to strengthen a relationship, but it can also test it,” Benjamin Ritter, relationship expert and founder of The Breakup Supplement told Elite Daily.

Here are a few tips for planning a first getaway together.

Make sure you’re both ready

Have a discussion about whether you’re ready to travel together. This doesn’t have to be a “define the relationship” moment, but it’s a good time to check in and make sure you’re on the same page of what “traveling together” means.

When one woman thought traveling together meant they were serious, she was even more confused and heartbroken when he ghosted her shortly after returning from the trip.

“I won’t ever travel with a partner again unless we’ve been in a committed relationship for a while,” she told Elite Daily.

Choose a destination you’ll both enjoy

If you want a cabin in the woods and they want a tropical beach, this trip might not work. Find a destination that has something to offer you both. You’re pet lovers. So if you’re heading to a dog-friendly destination with your WingPet, this is a great start!

Discuss the budget

Talking about money can be uncomfortable for any couple, let alone when you’re simply dating. Avoid monetary conflict by discussing how much money you’re both comfortable spending. This will help you decide on your accommodations, places to eat, and extra adventures.

Plan ahead

To avoid unnecessary disagreements, plan the trip together ahead of time. Keep an open mind, and compromise if you like different things. Remember, this is a trip for both of you to have fun and enjoy a new experience!

Check out our list of the “Most Fetching Dog Parks as Date Spots” for some great dog-friendly spots to add to your itinerary!

Plan some alone time

In all relationships, new or seasoned, it’s important to set aside time for yourself and give each other a little space. These can be small moments. Take a walk with your coffee in the morning, and bring your WingPet. (If your pets are not early risers, don’t take it personal when your pup prefers to sleep in.) Look for a café that allows pets, or spend some time at the local dog park. If they aren’t as adventuresome on every aspect of your trip, it’s okay to do some things alone like kayaking with just you and your pet.

Start small

If you’ve run through the list of tips and are feeling unsure that a trip is right for you and your new interest, millennial life coach Jess Hopkin has some advice.

“Plan a few smaller, low stakes excursions that could emulate some of the challenges that could crop up on vacation,” she says, suggesting a long hike or museum visit.

Still feeling up for the trip? Keep reading for the best dog-friendly destinations!

May I suggest these dog-friendly places?

Portland, Oregon

With 33 dog parks, 27 acres of green space, and patios on every block, it’s easy to see why this city ranked as the top dog-friendly city in the U.S. Home of dog-friendly coffee bars, the most breweries in any city, and one weird vibe, this dog-loving town is sure to be a good time.

Seattle, Washington

Is a destination with fewer kids and more dogs your kind of place? With more dog residents than babies, Seattle might just be your place! Between browsing the local Pike’s Place Market and dinner at the Space Needle, don’t miss Seattle’s indoor dog park and pet bakery located at the Dogwood Play Park.

Ashville, North Carolina

Ashville is rated as one of the U.S.’s happiest cities, and we think it might just have something to do with how dog-friendly the city is! After strolling downtown’s bustling art scene and live music venues, escape to the 250 acres of dog-friendly gardens at the Biltmore Estate.

Be positive

The first trip for you and your partner can feel scary at first, but with good communication, the company of your pooch, and a positive attitude, the trip could be the first great trip of many together!

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