I’m setting off in a few days for a brief journey through Florida in an RV with a friend—and the cat! We’re conducting a little ‘test run,’ so to speak. As I plan to travel extensively over the next 12 months to visit all 50 states during my 60th year, I imagine bringing the cat along on a few of these trips. Renting an RV seems like the best option, at least in my mind. We shall see how it turns out. By the way, I’m documenting both the journey and the planning process on the ’50at60′ website. Be sure to follow me there as well!
I can almost see her looking out the window of the RV as we travel thru Florida. A smile on her face (if that is even possible!) I imagine giving her a ride thru the campground as we explore the area, looking for birds and other small animals that might peak her curiosity. I must admit, I’ve been somewhat romanticizing how smooth traveling with this cat will be. Am I deluding myself with grandiose expectations? Will the process be as easy as I imagine? Will the cat adapt well to road travel? I like to think so, but only time will tell. We’ll find out next week after our little experiment! I’ll keep you updated here.
Although our short little trip is already planned and scheduled, I reached out to my AI assistant as if I was just planning this from the start. The result seemed too good not to share. Posting this here as I might actually do THIS route in the future, if all goes well this first time around that is. Wish me luck! And if you are thinking about doing the same thing, this itinerary might be a great place to start.
Introduction
Welcome to your first RV adventure with a special twist — bringing your furry companion along! Renting an RV through Outdoorsy is an excellent choice for those new to the RV lifestyle. As you embark on this unique journey, we’ve crafted a detailed itinerary for a 5-day, 4-night loop through sunny Florida. This guide will cover not just where to stay and what to see, but also how to make this experience comfortable and fun for both you and your cat.
Day 1: Orlando – Silver Springs (Approx. 2 hours drive)
Starting Point: Orlando
- Morning: Pick up your RV in Orlando. Pack your RV with essentials for both you and your cat, including a portable litter box, cat-friendly toys, a secure carrier, and cat-proofing supplies for the RV.
- Afternoon: Drive to Silver Springs. Check into Silver Springs RV Park, known for its spacious sites and close proximity to nature.
- Evening: Explore the famous glass-bottom boat tours at Silver Springs State Park, offering a glimpse into the underwater world of the springs.
Overnight: Silver Springs RV Park
Day 2: Silver Springs to Cedar Key (Approx. 1.5 hours drive)
Destination: Cedar Key
- Morning: Depart from Silver Springs after a relaxed breakfast. Head towards Cedar Key, a quaint island community off the Gulf Coast.
- Afternoon: Check into Sunset Isle RV Park. Set up a cozy spot for your cat with a view of the water.
- Evening: Enjoy a serene sunset walk along the Dock Street’s boardwalk. Try some local seafood, which is a must in this area.
Overnight: Sunset Isle RV Park
Day 3: Cedar Key to St. Augustine (Approx. 3 hours drive)
Destination: St. Augustine
- Morning: Pack up and head to St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S.
- Afternoon: Check into Compass RV Park. After settling in, explore the historic downtown. Don’t miss the Castillo de San Marcos and the scenic waterfront.
- Evening: Dine in one of the pet-friendly restaurants in the historic district or enjoy cooking in your RV.
Overnight: Compass RV Park
Day 4: St. Augustine to Titusville (Approx. 2 hours drive)
Destination: Titusville
- Morning: Travel to Titusville, a gateway to the Kennedy Space Center.
- Afternoon: Check into the Great Outdoors RV Resort. Later, visit the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge — keep an eye out for diverse bird species and maybe even a manatee.
- Evening: Stargaze at the Space View Park, especially beautiful if timed with a rocket launch.
Overnight: Great Outdoors RV Resort
Day 5: Return to Orlando (Approx. 1 hour drive)
Returning Home
- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Prepare your RV for return, ensuring everything is as clean and organized as it was when you picked it up.
- Afternoon: Drive back to Orlando. Drop off your RV and reflect on the memories made during this incredible journey with your cat.
Packing Tips and Recommendations
- Comfort for Your Cat: Bring items that smell like home to help your cat adjust more quickly. Include a foldable cat enclosure for safe outdoor time.
- Safety Essentials: Pack a first-aid kit for both you and your pet. Include medications, band-aids, antiseptics, and any prescription medications your cat may need.
- Navigation and Tools: Ensure you have offline maps downloaded, as some areas might have spotty service. A basic set of tools can also be handy for minor RV troubles.
Final Thoughts
This itinerary blends the natural beauty of Florida with the excitement of exploring new towns and attractions. Traveling with a cat in an RV can be a delightful experience with the right preparations and mindset. Enjoy the journey, take plenty of pictures, and savor this unique bond with your feline friend amidst the backdrop of Florida’s enchanting landscapes.
Embark on this adventure and let the open road bring endless stories and cherished moments!
“This post, it’s itineraries, and the accompanying artistic images were crafted with the assistance of AI technology, blending human creativity with artificial intelligence to explore new possibilities in travel and visual storytelling. While these images evoke the essence of their real-world counterparts, they are the result of artistic imagination, designed to transport you to places both familiar and fantastical. For a deeper understanding of our use of AI in creating these elements and its implications, please refer to our comprehensive AI statement linked here.”