Travel Preparedness Tips
 
Reptiles & Snakes
(or other small non-mammals)

 
Traveling with your pet should be fun.  But any change can be stressful for you both--especially if you don't plan ahead.  So below are some helpful hints to make that long road trek a little more comfortable for both of you.
 
Make up a checklist of everything you plan to bring with you.  This can include your pet's favorite perches, blankets or bedding, and food.  (Be sure to write down the specific brand you use, in case another family member needs to go buy extra food.  The busy holiday season is no time to be second-guessing about your pet's dietary needs.)  Also remember to bring along your pet's vet records.  In case of an emergency, they can make the difference between life and death for your pet.
 
Safe Transportation
Reptiles and snakes can often be carried in the same kind of soft-sided travel cases many people use for their cats and dogs. Line yours with soft towels, so your pet won't hurt itself if it gets nervous or agitated. Be sure to bring extra towels, as they will get soiled. A plastic bag is also a good precaution, to keep those stinky pooped-on towels separate from your own laundry. (It will also keep your room from getting as stinky, which can be critical if your family doesn't share your passion for reptiles.  LOL)
 
Food and Water
Think ahead.  Crickets are difficult to transport.  They need space, they have a unique aroma (rather pungent to those who don't love reptiles), and they are nature's original escape artists.  Hotels and in-laws will not thank you for unleashing them in their clean, tidy rooms.  If your reptiles will eat mealworms, superworms, waxworms, phoenix worms, or other insects which can be easily contained and transported, consider stocking up on those for your trip.  Most likely, your reptile will consider the new foods a tasty treat.
 
Store your frozen mice in a portable cooler with a few ice packs or frozen water bottles.  You can thaw these as needed, to provide variety and extra protein.
 
You may be able to get veggies, if the nearest grocery store is open.  But just in case, bring along any fresh veggies you have available, and don't forget your food processor!  Holiday traveling can be stressful enough without expending extra energy preparing food, and wishing you'd thought to bring along that handy little gadget!
 
Remember to bring along any frozen water jugs you may have available.  They will help keep your stored food cold longer, and provide safe water for you and your pet(s) at your destination.
 
The holiday season can be a fun time, if you think ahead and make sensible plans.  Drive safely, and have a wonderful holiday!