📝 1. Paperwork & Documentation
☐ Coggins Test (EIA Test) – Required for interstate travel
☐ Health Certificate (Certificate of Veterinary Inspection, CVI)
☐ Vaccination Records – Some venues require flu/rhino proof
☐ Brand Inspection Papers (if required by your state)
☐ Emergency Contact List – Vet, farrier, and transport services
☐ Copy of Travel Route & Emergency Vet Clinics Nearby
💡 Pro Tip: Keep digital copies of all paperwork on your phone in case originals get lost.
🏥 2. Horse Health & Emergency Supplies
☐ First-Aid Kit for Horses (Include: bandages, antiseptic, thermometer, Banamine, wound spray, vet wrap, syringes)
☐ Electrolytes – To prevent dehydration
☐ Fly Spray & Masks – Protect from insects at stops
☐ Hoof Pick & Hoof Boots (if barefoot) – Check hooves at every stop
☐ Dewormer (if needed) – Plan administration before the trip
☐ Veterinary Contact Info – Along your route & destination
💡 Pro Tip: Horses often drink less on the road due to unfamiliar water. Bring water from home or flavor it to encourage drinking.
🥕 3. Feed & Water Supplies
☐ Hay (1-2 extra days’ worth) – Prevents gut issues from sudden changes
☐ Grain & Supplements – Pre-measured for easy feeding
☐ Water from Home (if possible) – If not, use flavored water trick
☐ Buckets (2+ per horse) – One for drinking, one for soaking feed
☐ Slow-Feed Hay Net – Keeps the horse occupied during travel
☐ Salt Block or Loose Salt – Encourages drinking
💡 Pro Tip: Soak hay before travel for extra hydration.
🚛 4. Trailer Safety & Emergency Kit
☐ Extra Halters & Lead Ropes (1 per horse) – In case of breakage
☐ Trailer First-Aid Kit (for Humans & Horses)
☐ Trailer Spare Tire, Jack, and Lug Wrench
☐ Trailer Roadside Emergency Kit (Flares, Reflective Triangles, Flashlight, Duct Tape)
☐ Fire Extinguisher – Engine or trailer fire protection
☐ Trailer Hitch Lock & Safety Chains – Ensure secure connections
☐ Ventilation Check – Ensure airflow inside the trailer
💡 Pro Tip: Inspect the trailer floor before every trip for weak spots or wear.
🚙 5. Comfort & Safety for Your Horse
☐ Shipping Boots or Standing Wraps – Protects legs during travel
☐ Tail Wrap – Prevents rubbing and hair loss
☐ Extra Bedding for Trailer Floor – Improves traction and comfort
☐ Ear Plugs (if needed) – Helps sensitive horses stay calm
☐ Fly Sheet (if necessary for weather conditions)
💡 Pro Tip: Keep the loading and unloading process slow and calm to reduce stress.
✅ Final Pre-Travel Checklist
🛠 Trailer & Safety:
☐ Trailer inspected (tires, brakes, hitch, safety chains)
☐ First-aid kit stocked (for horse & human)
☐ Spare tire and roadside emergency tools packed
🐴 Horse Health & Care:
☐ Vet check completed
☐ Coggins, health certificate, and paperwork ready
☐ Feed, hay, and water packed
🚗 Travel Prep:
☐ Extra halters and lead ropes for each horse
☐ Emergency contacts & vet locations along the route
Final Thoughts
This streamlined packing list ensures your horse’s safety, health, and comfort while traveling. Whether you're heading to a show, trail ride, or long-haul trip, having the right supplies packed ahead of time will make your journey smooth and stress-free.
