@bluemarblevagabonds
Vanlife Adventures with My Dogs

Autumn Evenings in the Van

There’s something magical about autumn evenings in the van—crisp air, misty forests, and watching the flames dance in the campfire while the scent of roasted chestnuts fills the air. For me, vanlife isn’t just about exploring new countries and beautiful places; it’s about being able to take our dogs with us and sharing these moments with them. You get to experience the world together, see places off the beaten path, spend time outdoors, and bond over shared adventures.

The Joy of Flexibility

For me, the best part is the flexibility—pulling over wherever feels right, setting up camp, and simply enjoying the present moment. Nano and especially Nui love the unpredictability, and I always say she was born to be a vandog. From discovering new trails to waiting patiently as we roast sausages over the fire, boredom is not in their vocabulary when we’re out and about. And these little moments are what make vanlife special.

Chilly and rapidly changing temps

The soft and comfy Midlayer ECO dog jacket is a lifesaver in cold and chilly weather, and it’s now even warmer thanks to the addition of a unique foil jersey warming lining that you may recognise from another Hurtta favourite, the cold-busting Extreme Warmer dog winter coat.

New adventure starts here!

A Mini Weekend Adventure

Just recently, we packed our van and headed into the woods for a mini weekend adventure. We found the most gorgeous spot to spend the night, and while Nui was happily running around, chasing after the next discovery, Nano got cozy and curled up in the van when it got darker.

As the temperatures drop, keeping my dogs warm is my priority, and Hurtta’s Warming Midlayer ECO dog jackets are perfect for that. The mustard-yellow jackets not only fit their personalities (and somehow the van interior as well 😃) but are also incredibly functional. The soft fabric keeps them cozy without restricting their movement, and the foil-patterned jersey lining helps keep both active and senior dogs warm—I mean, it’s like it was made for my two furry adventurers! It’s also great that the jackets are easily adjustable for a perfect fit, and I love the reflective details for additional safety.

Tips for Vanlife with Dogs

If you’re dreaming of hitting the road with your dogs, here are a few tips:

Know your dog’s needs: Every dog is different, and it’s important to understand your pup’s unique personality and preferences. Some dogs, like my Nui, thrive on constant activity, while others, like Nano, enjoy a slower pace. Plan your travels around what makes them comfortable—whether that’s frequent breaks for exercise or plenty of time to relax in the van.
Prioritize safety and comfort: Just like you, your dog needs to feel secure. Prepare a safe space in the van for them where they can retreat if they’re feeling tired or overstimulated. Bring along familiar items, such as their bed or favorite toys, to create a sense of home on the road.
Flexibility is key: Plan ahead, but also embrace the unexpected. Being in nature is a huge part of vanlife, and that means dealing with all sorts of weather. Invest in high-quality gear that will last through all your adventures. Your dog’s comfort is key, and having reliable products like Hurtta’s gear ensures they’re always ready, no matter the weather!

Choosing Durable and Eco-Conscious Dog Gear

I’m constantly looking for gear that’s built to last, and Hurtta delivers on that promise with their durable, long-lasting, and eco-conscious products. I especially appreciate their focus on reusability and repairability. If anything should happen to these jackets, I won’t need to replace them but simply repair them! Knowing these jackets are designed not only to protect my dogs but also to protect the BlueMarble we love to explore together is another reason why I’ll keep choosing Hurtta products.

Pick up the style

Nui is 12kg active working Border Collie and wearing size 50 in Hurtta Warming Midlayer Eco dog jacket.

Nano is 7,5kg Jack Russell Terrier senior dog and wearing size 30 in Hurtta Warming Midlayer dog coat.

Check the product here!