Traveling as a family is a beautiful way to create memories, explore new places, and experience the world together. But when you have an autistic child, the idea of travel can feel overwhelming. Sensory challenges, routine changes, and crowded spaces can all add an extra layer of planning and preparation.

As travel enthusiasts and parents of two autistic kids, ages 10 and 4, we understand these challenges firsthand. That’s why we created Loving Pieces Books, a project inspired by our journey as parents navigating autism. Through our books, resources, and experiences, we aim to empower families with tools to build confidence, navigate challenges, and embrace the unique strengths of their autistic children.

We love to travel, but we’ve learned that successful trips require extra planning, flexibility, and patience. Along with Viajando por el mundo Mundial we have made this post, we’ll share some of our best strategies for making travel smoother, plus a FREE downloadable guide packed with practical tips for planning, packing, and handling unexpected situations.

Keep in mind: Every autistic child is different! Some kids need more preparation than others, and some may not require as many sensory accommodations. This guide is designed for all families—just take the tips that best fit your child’s needs.

Choose Autism-Friendly Destinations

Not all travel spots are created equal when it comes to accessibility and sensory accommodations.

We always choose destinations that align with our kids’ interests and sensory preferences. For example, our children love water, so beach destinations or places with pools work best for us. On the other hand, places with loud noises, bright lights, or unpredictable schedules can be overwhelming.

Some autism-friendly travel perks to look for include:

✔️ Theme Parks with Accessibility Programs – Many offer fast passes, quiet spaces, or sensory-friendly times.
✔️ Hotels with Flexible Policies – Some accommodations allow early check-in, fridge access for special dietary needs, or quiet room requests.
✔️ Museums & Attractions with Sensory Guides – Check if they provide visual guides or sensory accommodations.

Plan for Sensory Needs

Changes in environment, loud noises, and crowds can be overwhelming. Preparing in advance makes all the difference.

✔️ Pack Comfort & Sensory Tools – Noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses for bright spaces, weighted blankets, or favorite toys.
✔️ Bring Safe Foods – If your child has dietary restrictions, pack their preferred snacks or research restaurants ahead of time. (For us, Guillermo only drinks a specific brand of milk, so we make sure to have it available!)
✔️ Create a Calming Space – Even in a hotel room or family member’s house, setting up a quiet retreat with familiar objects can help ease anxiety.

Prepare with Visual Aids & Social Stories

Many autistic kids feel more comfortable when they know what to expect.

We create a travel map for our older son, Adrián, so he can follow along and understand the trip step by step. It makes him feel more in control. You can also:

✔️ Use a Visual Schedule – Show images of each part of the trip (packing, airport, hotel, activities).
✔️ Watch Videos in Advance – Preview airports, hotels, or attractions online to help familiarize them.
✔️ Read Social Stories – These help explain what happens during a flight, road trip, or stay at a new place.

We usually don’t tell our kids about trips too far in advance to avoid prolonged anxiety, but this varies by child—do what works best for your family!

Air Travel Tips: What You Need to Know

Flying can be one of the trickiest parts of traveling with an autistic child, but good preparation makes all the difference.

✔️ Research Airline Accommodations – Emirates is the world’s first autism-certified airline! Some airlines allow pre-boarding or special assistance.
✔️ Use Airport Assistance Programs – TSA Cares (U.S.), AENA’s Invisible Disability Badge (Spain), and Sunflower Lanyards (Europe) can help families navigate security with less stress.
✔️ Pack Distractions & Comfort Items – Fidget toys, downloaded favorite shows, and snacks can help keep your child engaged.
✔️ Boarding Strategy – Some kids do better with pre-boarding, while others prefer to board last to minimize waiting time.

Handling Meltdowns in Uncontrolled Spaces

Meltdowns happen, and that’s okay! But in spaces where you can’t easily leave—like airplanes, ships, or crowded attractions—it’s important to have a game plan:

✔️ Identify “Safe Spots” – Find a quiet corner or rest area in advance.
✔️ Bring a Comfort Toolkit – Noise-canceling headphones, chewables, fidget toys, or a weighted lap pad.
✔️ Communicate with Staff – Flight attendants, cruise staff, and theme park employees are often willing to help if they’re aware of your child’s needs.

Staying with Family? Set Expectations in Advance

Not all relatives will understand autism, and that’s okay. Help them prepare by:

✔️ Explaining What to Expect – Let them know if your child has sensory sensitivities, food preferences, or needs quiet time.
✔️ Bringing Familiar Items – Favorite blankets, toys, or bedtime routines can help your child adjust to a new environment.
✔️ Creating a Safe Space – If the home isn’t autism-friendly, set up a designated quiet area for your child to retreat to when overwhelmed.

Handling Unexpected Challenges

No matter how much you plan, unexpected things happen—like bad weather, sudden sickness, or a closed attraction.

✔️ Prepare for Flexibility – Teach your child that “sometimes things change, and that’s okay.”
✔️ Have Backup Activities – Bring extra entertainment options in case plans need to shift.
✔️ Self-Care for Parents – Travel can be exhausting! Take turns with your partner or support system to get small breaks.

Want More Travel Tips? Download Our Free Guide!

We know firsthand how overwhelming travel planning can be.

That’s why we created a FREE Autism Travel Guide with:

✔️ A detailed packing checklist
✔️ Sensory-friendly travel strategies
✔️ Real-life tips for handling meltdowns in new environments

📩 Download your free guide here: https://mailchi.mp/14d44e0cabd9/mjk0taqwjc

Traveling with an autistic child is possible and it can even be fun! With the right preparation, you can create wonderful family memories while making sure your child feels safe and supported every step of the way.

Do you have any travel experiences or tips to share? Drop them in the comments, we’d love to hear from you!

With love,

Dalisse and Luis

Lovingpiecesbooks.com