Travelling with horses

Whether you’re heading to a competition, travelling for lessons or exploring a new hacking route, having transport can really open up the world and give you and your horse far greater freedom. But before loading up and hitting the road, a little preparation can make all the difference.

Planning ahead, allowing extra time and making sure your horse and vehicle are ready will help reduce stress and set the journey up for success.

Before travelling with horses

Before any journey, make sure that your horse is fit and well enough to travel, checking for signs of lameness, fatigue, minor injuries or illness. Your horse should be comfortably weight-bearing on all four legs. If your mare is in the later stages of pregnancy or has foaled within the past week, it’s best to postpone travel until she’s ready.

If you’re travelling with horses long-distance, a quick check-in with your vet can give reassurance that your horse is fine to travel. Trust your instincts – if something feels off, reschedule the trip for another day.

In the UK, every horse must travel with a valid horse passport. So, whether you’re heading to a competition or clinic, or moving yards, make sure your horse’s passport is up to date and easily accessible. Not having one can result in fines of up to £5,000.

It’s also worth checking that your horse insurance cover is valid before you set off, especially if you’re travelling with horses long-distance.

For long journeys, consider travelling the night before and booking stabling, so your horse has time to rest. Allow more time than you think you’ll need to keep the journey as relaxed as possible, and plan the route, noting any roadworks or possible delays. A longer route with fewer twists and turns may be more comfortable for your horse.

Owning your own transport vs hiring a horse transporter

If you are travelling with horses regularly, owning a trailer or lorry offers a lot of flexibility and convenience. However, this flexibility does come with responsibility. Regular servicing, safety checks, correct licensing and insurance are essential, and not everyone feels confident towing or driving a horsebox.

If you travel infrequently or feel unsure about towing, hiring a professional transporter can offer peace of mind. Experienced transporters are trained to handle horses and will take care of the technicalities for you. Always check credentials, insurance cover and vehicle maintenance records before booking.

Preparing your horse for travel

Preparation for travel doesn’t start on the day of the journey. Horses benefit from gradual familiarisation with loading and travelling.

Because horses have excellent memories, calm early experiences with loading can have a lasting impact. If your horse is inexperienced or reluctant, practise loading and unloading without travelling anywhere. You might incorporate walking through a stationary trailer into your daily routine, or feeding your horse inside it to create positive associations. After that, short, calm trips can help build confidence. Use plenty of praise and avoid rushing – a stressful loading experience can create long-lasting resistance.

On the day of travel, aim for a well-hydrated, settled horse and allow at least an hour for them to digest any hard feed before loading.

Keeping your horse comfortable while travelling

While travelling, your horse is constantly adjusting their balance to stay upright. This can use up energy and quickly make them warm, so avoid over-rugging and keep the window or vents open where safe. During hot weather, consider travelling during the cooler hours of early morning or evening.

Secure your horse safely

Many owners prefer to transport horses in a quick-release headcollar. Tie your horse to baler twine attached to the trailer’s tie ring, rather than directly to metal fittings, so it will snap if they panic and pull back.

Boots, bandages and protection

Boots and bandages can protect your horse’s legs from knocks during loading, braking or sharp corners, while tail guards help prevent hair rubbing and protect the dock, especially on longer journeys. All can be helpful for young or unsettled travellers. While many horses benefit from added protection, some find boots bulky or restrictive, and poorly fitted bandages may slip or create pressure points. They can also make horses warmer in hot weather.

If you do use boots or bandages, ensure they’re correctly fitted – secure but not tight – and introduce them well in advance. For calm, experienced travellers on short journeys, some owners prefer to travel without leg protection. The right choice depends on your individual horse.

Feeding and hydration

Provide a small-holed haynet so your horse can eat during the journey. This helps keep them calm, reduces stress and encourages a more relaxed, enjoyable trip. Just make sure it is tied high enough to prevent getting tangled. Always carry a large container of water on journeys.

Monitoring during travel

For longer journeys, installing a camera means you can monitor your horse as you drive.

Travelling with more than one horse

Some horses travel more calmly with a companion, especially if they are used to being turned out together. A familiar travelling partner can reduce stress and encourage relaxed behaviour.

However, it’s important to note that travelling with more than one horse will usually depend on the weight restrictions of the vehicle. Most 3.5-tonne horseboxes are generally designed for one horse or two ponies, rather than two large horses.

Compatibility is also essential. Choose travelling companions carefully and avoid pairing horses that are prone to kicking, biting or becoming anxious around one another. Ensure partitions are secure, and that weight is evenly distributed across the vehicle. If you are travelling with just one horse, always load onto the driver’s side so the trailer is safely balanced.

How to check and prepare a trailer or lorry

Keeping your vehicle serviced regularly by a qualified specialist will help keep it safe and reliable. Before setting off each time, check:

• Ramp hinges and bolts
• Tyres for signs of balding or slow punctures
• The floor for loose boards or screws
• Lights and indicators

If you are hiring transport, ask to see up-to-date warranties, safety certificates and service history.

Make sure your total weight – including your horse, tack, water, hay, feed, fuel and passengers – does not exceed the legal weight limit. And always carry a well-stocked equine first-aid kit (including bandages and antiseptic spray) and a human first-aid kit. Pack extra water and feed in case of breakdown or delays.

Driving carefully and unloading safely

Because horses travel standing up, they rely on you for balance and stability. Smooth and steady driving means they will be less likely to fall or slip. Take corners slowly and avoid sudden braking or acceleration. For journeys longer than two hours, stop off where safe to do so for at least 15 minutes and offer water.

To unload, open and secure all doors and partitions before untying the lead rope and leading your horse out.

Horses don’t understand the purpose of travel, so your reassurance is key. With the right preparation it can be something to look forward to, opening the door to new places and experiences together.