Travelling Tasmania with pets: Emily & Luna's Bay of Fires guide

Emily, also known as Adventure With Emily, has been travelling Tasmania with her pets - documenting the slower moments, the scenic stops and the reality of life on the road with Luna (the undeniable star of the show).

After her stay at Tasman Holiday Parks – St Helens, we wanted to know what travelling Tasmania with pets actually feels like. The things worth packing, the places she’d recommend most, whether travelling with a dog is easier than people think and of course… the big question: cabin or campsite?

From dog-friendly beaches around Bay of Fires to what she actually packed (spoiler: more towels than expected), Emily shared what travelling Tassie with a dog really looks like - the good, the messy and the moments that make you glad you brought them along.

Because honestly? Some holidays are just better with sandy paws in the backseat.

So… how did travelling Tasmania with a dog actually feel and what surprised you most?

“I honestly love Tasmania for travelling with a dog.

There are definitely some limitations with national parks, but there are also so many incredible dog-friendly places to explore like waterfalls on the West Coast, mountains in the North and some of the most beautiful dog-friendly beaches in Australia.

There are always pet sitters available if visiting national parks is important to you, but personally I prefer planning trips around places Luna can experience with me.

And what surpised Emily most?

"Probably just how many places there actually are to see with your dog.

I do find the north a little easier overall when it comes to dog-friendly travel, but there are still some amazing spots around Hobart and the Tasman Peninsula too.”

What were your must-pack items?

“Lots of towels is a must. A long line or retractable lead is essential, plus plenty of treats and toys.

One thing that’s been a game changer lately is freezing treats, dog-safe broth and peanut butter inside enrichment toys. It keeps Luna entertained on rainy days or when we’re having downtime.”

What does your perfect Bay of Fires day look like?

“The perfect day would start with a morning walk along the foreshore straight out the front of Tasman Holiday Parks with Luna, then breakfast at Lifebuoy Cafe which is dog-friendly.

After that, heading out to one of the many bays for a swim and slow afternoon exploring beaches around Bay of Fires.

Then finishing the day with sunset at St Helens Point and dinner at Parkside Bar & Kitchen right next to Tasman Holiday Parks.”

What was your “this is why we brought the dog” moment?

“Honestly… every moment shared with Luna outside.

Seeing her digging in the sand, swimming in the crystal-clear water at Bay of Fires or completely exhausted after a huge adventure day makes every bit of planning worth it for me.”

What did you love most about staying at Tasman Holiday Parks - St Helens?

“I loved how easy it felt.

The pet-friendly cabins are set up perfectly for travelling with pets. There was already a dog bed and bowl waiting inside when we arrived, the yard was fully fenced so I didn’t have to stress about Luna wandering off, and having the waterfront walking track straight across the road made it even better.”

What’s something people overthink about travelling with dogs?

“That they won’t be able to do anything or go anywhere.

It’s really not true.

Yes, there are some compromises sometimes, but I’ve travelled full-time with Luna for four years now and we’ve experienced so many incredible places together that I never would’ve wanted to do without her.”

One final thing for anyone thinking about bringing their dog to Tasmania?

“Do it. Especially if you’re coming over on the Spirit for an extended trip. Tasmania is such a great place to explore with your dog and there’s so much more to do together than people realise.”

Final verdict: cabin or campsite?

“I genuinely loved both, but the cabin takes the win for me.

It was incredibly comfortable, beautifully set up, had gorgeous views out to the water and just made the whole stay feel relaxing for both me and my pets.

None of us wanted to leave.”

Planning your own pet-friendly Tasmania escape?

Explore the pet-friendly cabins and stays at Tasman Holiday Parks – St Helens or check out our latest accommodation deals for your next Bay of Fires getaway.