Travel Tips for Families with Autism: How to Prepare and Reduce Stress

🌍Traveling can be overwhelming and stressful for individuals on the autism spectrum

✈️Contacting the airport ahead of time and utilizing special assistance can make the travel experience smoother

🎒Bringing familiar items such as ear defenders, chew toys, and favorite snacks can help individuals with autism self-regulate and feel more comfortable

📅Planning the travel schedule in advance and phoning ahead to book activities and accommodations can reduce uncertainty

🧳Staying in an Airbnb and unpacking immediately upon arrival can provide a more predictable and comfortable environment

How can I make traveling smoother for my child with autism?

—Contact the airport ahead of time, utilize special assistance, and bring familiar items to help your child self-regulate.

Why is it important to unpack immediately upon arrival?

—Unpacking immediately can provide a sense of routine and familiarity in a new environment, reducing stress and uncertainty.

What are some essential items to bring when traveling with autism?

—Ear defenders, chew toys, and favorite snacks can help individuals with autism self-regulate and stay calm during travel.

Should I stay in a hotel or an Airbnb when traveling with autism?

—Staying in an Airbnb can provide a more predictable and comfortable environment for individuals with autism as opposed to a busy hotel.

How can I plan ahead to reduce uncertainty during travel?

—Make a travel schedule in advance, phone ahead for activities and accommodations, and communicate any special needs or requirements with service providers.

00:00Introduction to the challenges of traveling with autism

01:48Utilizing special assistance at the airport and wearing identification for autism

03:45Bringing familiar items such as ear defenders and chew toys

05:20Benefits of staying in an Airbnb instead of a hotel

06:58Unpacking immediately upon arrival for a sense of routine and familiarity