Travel Influencer Says Fellow Skiers ‘Couldn’t Believe’ What He Had in His Backpack Down the Mountain (Exclusive)

**Adventurous Trio: A Man and His Cats Explore the World Together**

Lazar Joksimovic, an enthusiastic traveller from Chicago, has embarked on extraordinary journeys across the globe, taking along his two British Shorthair cats, King Louie and Todd. Since adopting these feline companions in 2023, the trio has visited an impressive 14 countries, engaging in a variety of unique activities that defy the traditional perception of pet ownership.

One of their latest adventures took them to the Austrian Alps, where they immersed themselves in the slopes during a skiing trip in February 2026. Joksimovic detailed how he acclimatised the cats to their new environment by using various techniques, including treats and gradual exposure to the heights. Initially, he introduced them to the gondolas and chairlifts at lower elevations, allowing them to get used to the experience before venturing higher up the mountain.

For Joksimovic, this skiing trip marked not only the first time he took his cats onto the snowy terrain but also his return to skiing after a decade-long hiatus. He skilfully managed to ski with Louie and Todd nestled in a backpack for the initial runs, during which they curiously observed the bustling ski resort around them. As the cats became more familiar with the sounds of the mountain, Joksimovic transitioned to allowing them to perch on top of the backpack – their preferred spot, he noted.

Surprisingly, both Louie and Todd seemed to thrive in the wintry setting. Joksimovic revealed that they wore their own little jackets and hats to keep warm, and they appeared calm and content as they glided down the slopes. Observers were often taken aback at the sight of the skiing felines, capturing videos and photos as the unusual trio made their way down without incident.

Prior to their alpine escapade, Joksimovic had also taken Louie and Todd on a memorable two-week road trip through Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in November 2025. This adventure involved visits to five national parks, and according to Joksimovic, the car rides were one of the highlights for the cats. He explained that Louie particularly enjoyed making biscuits in his booster seat while taking in the lush views outside.

The nature of the landscapes they explored took centre stage during this trip, with Joksimovic leading the cats off the beaten path into open terrains. The British Shorthairs were fitted with GPS trackers to ensure they stayed safe, which allowed them to roam freely while enjoying the great outdoors. Joksimovic shared that he uses treats to encourage both cats to pose for photos, successfully getting Louie to sit at the edge of a canyon for a perfect shot, despite Louie needing time to acclimatise to the vastness of Zion National Park.

While Louie embraced the adventure of exploring the expansive park, it was Todd who held a special fondness for Canyonlands National Park. The trio covered significant ground together, hiking an estimated eight kilometres, allowing both cats to experience the joy of nature in a way that many pet owners would overlook.

In May 2025, the adventurous feline duo joined Joksimovic in Alberta, Canada, where they encountered a new experience—kayaking on the picturesque Lake Louise. Initially surprised by the pet-friendly policies of the canoe rental service, Joksimovic remarked on the cats’ quick adaptability to the sensation of floating on water. It took them just 10 to 15 minutes to adjust, after which they appeared to relish the tranquillity and beauty surrounding them.

Bringing along life jackets for safety, Joksimovic made it a point to prepare his cats for each new experience. He noted that having trained them in the chaotic atmosphere of Chicago prepared them well for the serene landscapes of nature, which they found calming.

Joksimovic’s experiences with Louie and Todd highlight the potential for pets to accompany their owners on adventures, breaking away from traditional expectations. His determination to include his cats in various activities showcases a unique bond that transcends the usual pet-owner relationship, forging a friendship built on exploration and shared experiences.

As he looks to the future, Joksimovic remains committed to expanding the duo’s travel repertoire, hinting at more adventures on the horizon. His enthusiastic approach not only challenges perceptions about what it means to travel with pets but also offers an inspiring narrative about the special relationship between pet owners and their furry companions.