Two children enjoy travel by car in mountains, family vacation (nadezhda1906 (123RF))
For many families with kids who have sensory processing challenges or autism, it can be difficult to go to places or travel. What might seem like a simple outing or vacation can be overwhelming for some families due to crowds, loud noises, bright lights, unfamiliar foods and other stimuli. However, traveling can be rewarding for neurodivergent children when careful and thoughtful planning accounts for their needs. Traveling can support growth in social abilities, adaptability, and communication.
It is essential to understand and accommodate your child’s unique sensory needs. With the right tools, traveling can become a great experience and not a stressful one.
Because many children with sensory processing challenges experience the world in heightened ways, it helps to prepare them by using a sensory-based approach. When we use social stories and books to normalize activities, it helps them grow and learn. However, there are other things we can do to reduces sensory-related challenges.
Taste
New foods can be a hurdle for many kids. Bring familiar snacks from home, and once you arrive, consider visiting a local grocery store to stock up on familiar products. That small taste of home can be grounding.
Touch
Airports and other unfamiliar settings can be full of uncomfortable textures and new sensations. Prepare by bringing comfort items (such as a sensory-friendly travel kit) or other items to help acclimate to “out of the norms” settings. Comfort objects can help ease transitions and reduce anxiety.
Sound
Airplanes, train stations and busy city streets can be loud and overwhelming. Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs can provide instant relief from unexpected sound triggers.
Sight
New visual environments can be disorienting. Use pictures, storybooks or videos to show your child what they can expect to see on the trip. If possible, visit transportation settings or similar environments ahead of time to practice.
Smell
Unfamiliar smells can be distressing. If your child is susceptible to olfactory sensitivity, consider bringing a mask or a scented cloth infused with an essential oil that they enjoy and can use for comfort.
Back view of girl pointing away while looking out window together with brother in airport (lightfieldstudios (123RF))
How do we create a travel experience that is enjoyable to everyone and that accommodates to everyone’s needs? Here are some strategies to consider:
Do your Destination Homework
Look for autism-certified locations or nature-based settings that offer calm, structured environments. Nature-based settings, for example, often provide low-stimulation and allow for exploration without overwhelm.
Choose the Right Accommodations
Many airports and hotels are increasingly offering sensory-friendly options. Some airports now include sensory rooms or quiet zones. When booking hotels, ask about quieter rooms, extra space or accommodations for neurodivergent guests.
Build Flexibility into the Schedule
Create an itinerary that includes planned activities and plenty of downtime. Kids (and adults!) often need time to decompress, especially in new environments.
Incorporate Sensory-Friendly Activities
Choose to book tours that align with your child’s sensory preferences.
Prepare Ahead of Time
Use visual schedules, practice runs, or social stories to explain what will happen during the trip. The more practice your child has, the more confident your child will be.
Consult with Experts
Some professionals specialize in planning trips for families with neurodivergent members. Airlines such as Emirates are now becoming more inclusive, even earning recognition as the world’s first autism-certified airline (Autism Double-Checked, 2024).
In general, you don’t need to remove all the challenges of traveling, but you do want to prepare for them. The key is researching, and planning but also allowing things to be flexible and keeping the experience as normal as possible for your child. If your child wants to listen to music during a boat ride, let them. If they need a sensory break mid-day, take one.
Make the most of the time you have. You know your children better than anyone, plan your activities around the time of day when they are at their best, and provide rest and sensory breaks.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Traveling with children is not easy. Traveling with children with sensory issues have a few mor challenges. Find your tribe. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or take a break. You don’t have to do this alone, and by speaking up, you help reduce the stigma and create a welcoming environment for other families with sensory needs.
Editor’s Note: This article was written by a member of the local military community, not an employee of Stars and Stripes. Neither the organization nor the content is being represented by Stars and Stripes or the Department of Defense.
