Traveling with Autism: A Guide To Vacation Packing
“The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today”
As an autistic person, I understand firsthand that traveling can be both exciting and challenging. That's why I want to share my personal guide to vacation packing with you. By following these tips and strategies, you can ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience for yourself or your loved one with autism.
Let's dive in - Here are some things to keep in mind in preparation for your next trip:
Create a Packing Checklist
You’ve decided on a destination, amazing! Now it’s time to get packing. As every autistic person is different, only you know what is essential for you and what you’ll need on your trip to keep your routine as steady as possible. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the options, try first to write down the things you use daily. Start with the basics, such as your toothbrush, comfort object, and headphones. Then think about your itinerary and what you’re planning on doing at your destination. That way you’ll be prepared for anything, and you will have all your favorite items with you.
The most important part of packing is that you’re honest about what you need and what works for you. I’ve learned that traveling (or packing, for that matter) is not the time to mask. For example, I always have an “emergency” cardigan with me wherever I go. No matter the weather, I like to have the option to throw something on whenever I feel vulnerable, overwhelmed, or just cold. There have been situations where I left for a trip without a cardigan because it was warm, and “I can totally do without a cardigan for a couple of days.” It turns out I couldn’t, and I found myself wandering the beach boardwalk, hoping to find a store where I could buy a cardigan. Packing really is not the time to try new things. Just stick with your favorites so you always have something to make you feel comfortable and safe.
I’ve created a packing list that works for me that I thought I would share. I featured many items that I believe most autistics would agree would benefit them on their trip. If you feel something is missing, I’ve left some space at the bottom so you can add some of your own comfort items at the bottom. That way, you won’t forget to bring something important to you on your next trip.
2. Pack Comfort Items
Traveling can be overwhelming, so it's essential to bring along your comfort items. Whether it's a favorite blanket, pillow, stuffed animal, or any object that brings you a sense of security, make sure to include it in your luggage. I find that having these familiar items makes me feel more at ease and helps me navigate new environments more comfortably.
One small tip: If you have the space, bring your comfort item with you in your carry-on/bag. That way, you don’t take the risk of losing it. Yes, I’ve had airport security look at me funny when they saw me traveling with my stuffed animals, but oh well, that’s just the way it is. Lincoln and Lakitu (see picture above) come with me on every trip, no matter what.
3. Consider Sensory Needs
As an autistic person, I know sensory sensitivities are a significant part of our lives. If you have specific sensory needs, it's crucial to plan accordingly. Choose clothing made from soft and comfortable materials to avoid any discomfort. Pack items like fidget toys, stress balls, or chewable jewelry to help manage sensory input. Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs can also be lifesavers in noisy or crowded settings.
If you can afford it, airport lounges have been a great solution for me to deal with the hecticity of airplane travel. It is quiet, with no announcements and no people running around. If this is an option for you, I truly recommend trying it. I live in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and I have a membership at Schiphol Airport that allows me to use the lounge and also skip security lines. To me, it’s worth the costs as I don’t have to wait in line and don’t get overstimulated without having to ask for assistance every time I travel. If this is not an option for you, try to do some research ahead of time and see if you can contact the airline/airport to request assistance. Most airports have ways to accommodate you, such as priority boarding or fast tracks.
4. Stick to Routines
Maintaining routines is vital for my well-being, especially when I'm away from home. I encourage you to keep important daily routines intact while traveling. Pack any necessary items for maintaining your regular schedule, such as medication, visual schedules, or timers. Creating a travel-specific visual schedule can also help understand and adapt to the trip's sequence of events.
Preparation is your friend here. If you’re going to a new destination, plan and map out most of the things you can. You won’t be able to be in control of every little thing, but I’ve noticed that you can take away some uncertainty by sticking to parts of your routine that are important to you. For example, if you’re used to going to bed at the same time every day - don’t change that during your vacation. It’s completely ok to keep doing what you always do. For example, I always plan an evening to stay in and recharge on every trip. I bring a stack of cards or just watch a movie and order room service. This helps me from getting overwhelmed by having to be social and around people every day. Don’t think you’re obligated to “try new things” and completely change your routine just because you’re on vacation and you “have to”.
5. Prepare for dietary considerations
If you have specific dietary requirements, planning ahead is key. You can research restaurants or eateries at your travel destination that offer the best options for you. Don’t forget to make a reservation so you won’t have to deal with any surprises. If necessary, pack essential snacks or familiar foods to ensure you have suitable alternatives available. This way, you can enjoy your trip without worrying about food-related challenges.
To be completely honest with you, I don’t struggle much with finding something I like on a menu. However, I am one of those people that likes to see the menu ahead of time and pick what I want to eat, as I’m incredibly indecisive. Also, I prefer to know the route to the restaurant, and what the restaurant looks like from the inside so I know what to expect.
6. Pack for safety and emergencies
Safety is a top priority, no matter where we go. It's crucial to be prepared for unexpected situations. Carry identification cards, emergency contact information, and, if you have one, your autism alert card. That way, if anything happens, you can quickly identify yourself and your needs to anyone without too much communication. Don’t forget to bring a first aid kit with any necessary medications readily accessible. Take some time to familiarize yourself with local emergency services at your destination so you know what to do in case of an emergency.
Don’t forget to let your traveling companion know what you need in an emergency or potential meltdown. Everyone is different, so it might be difficult for the person you’re traveling with to identify precisely what you need. Choose a moment before your travels and tell them what you require them to do if something happens. For example, my boyfriend knows that I want to be left alone whenever I'm overwhelmed without communicating it. He will give me space and knows that whenever I feel better, I will let him know. The last thing I need in a moment like that is something asking me questions and trying to comfort me. Even though, rationally, I know they are trying to help at that moment, it has the exact opposite effect on me.
Funny side story: In the picture above, I was reunited with Lincoln after I accidentally left him under the bed sheets in a hotel in Dubai. We were in a hurry because our taxi to our next destination arrived early and we didn’t finish packing. That threw me off so much that I forgot to check the bed, and he got left behind. When I noticed we were a 4-hour car ride away and I couldn’t sleep for the next couple of days until we could pick him up again. I called the hotel and made sure they would keep him in a storage space until we got back to Dubai. When I ran to the reception, I told them I had “forgotten my penguin in my room and that he is now in the storage room.” The man behind the desk looked puzzled and asked, “A real penguin?”. In my mind, it was clear I didn’t mean an actual penguin, but the man continued, “This is Dubai M'am.. here you never know.”
I know the amount of careful planning and preparation that goes into travel as an autistic person. By doing your research and booking things in advance, you won’t have to deal with too many surprises on your trip, and you can stay in control for as much as you want to and enjoy your travel experience to the fullest.
Remember, we are all unique, so adapt these suggestions to suit your own needs. With proper preparation, traveling can be an exciting adventure full of new experiences and wonderful memories.
One more thing - If you have any questions or if you want to talk something over, please feel free to reach out. Happy Travels!
