Tips for Travelling Long Distance in Equestrian Horse Vans

Long-distance travel with horses is not just about getting from point A to B, it’s about ensuring safety, comfort, and preparedness every step of the way. Whether you’re travelling to a show, transporting youngstock, or relocating between yards, a properly planned journey makes all the difference. With the right equestrian horse van, such as those available through STX Finance, you’re already halfway there. 

Here’s a practical step-by-step guide for preparing horses and handlers for long-distance journeys in equestrian horse vans, designed to reduce stress and maximise welfare. 

1. Select the Right Equestrian Horse Vans for Long Distances 

A high-quality van sets the tone for the entire trip. Modern STX horse vans are designed with long journeys in mind, offering excellent ventilation, secure partitions, rubberised flooring, and integrated camera systems. These features aren’t just premium add-ons, they actively reduce stress, lower risk of injury, and help maintain condition en route. 

2. Plan the Route and Include Rest Stops 

Don’t just rely on your satnav. Plot your route in advance, marking out fuel stops, safe parking areas, and designated rest points. Horses travelling over long distances should have rest periods every 4–6 hours to check hydration, breathing, and overall condition. 

If you’re transporting multiple horses or crossing borders, planning becomes even more essential. A clear plan helps reduce travel time and prevents unnecessary stress for the animals. 

3. Hydration and Feeding Strategy 

Before you set off, make sure your horses are well-hydrated. Offer water at regular intervals throughout the trip and consider packing soaked hay or wet mashes for longer hauls. During transport, provide dust-free hay in secure haynets hung at a safe height. It keeps the horses occupied and helps prevent digestive issues. 

4. Prepare Paperwork Ahead of Time 

Especially for international journeys, you’ll need horse passports, vaccination records, transport permits, and in some cases, vet clearance documents. Organise all paperwork in a travel folder and keep it within easy reach in the cab. 

5. Monitor During the Journey 

Modern STX equestrian horse vans often come with built-in cameras and temperature monitoring systems, allowing you to check on your horses from the driver’s seat. If your van isn’t equipped with these features, schedule regular stops to inspect horses for signs of fatigue, sweating, or distress. 

It’s essential to stay calm and keep handling to a minimum during stops as too much interference can disrupt the horse’s sense of stability. 

6. Prepare the Driver and Handler Too 

Long-distance transport isn’t just about the horses as drivers and grooms need to be prepared too. Make sure your van’s cab is comfortable and that essentials like chargers, snacks, and route plans are easily accessible. Switch drivers where possible and take breaks before fatigue sets in. Remember: a calm driver means a calm horse. 

7. Recovery on Arrival 

Once you arrive, unload horses carefully and let them adjust. Offer water immediately, and after they’ve settled, a light feed. For competition horses, a good rule is to allow at least 24 hours between arrival and performance. 

Using STX equestrian horse vans, with their stable ride and shock-absorbing suspension, often means horses arrive fresher and less stressed, giving you a competitive edge from the moment you step off the ramp. 

Leasing with Flexibility and Confidence 

Choosing to lease your equestrian horse van through STX Finance gives you the advantage of flexibility. Whether you’re planning seasonal tours or regular cross-country trips, leasing means you always have access to vehicles suited for the road ahead, without long-term ownership concerns. 

At the end of your contract, you can return the van, upgrade to a newer model, or renew, all within a structured and compliant agreement. 

Travelling long distances with horses is a logistical challenge — but with careful planning and the right vehicle, it becomes a seamless part of your equestrian routine. With STX equestrian horse vans and leasing support from STX Finance, you’re equipped to keep your horses safer, your schedule on track, and your journeys stress-free from start to finish.