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Traveling as a family can be a lot of work. Traveling as an autistic family can be even more work because you must take specific items with you. If you don’t, your autistic child could have a meltdown before the fun even begins. Today, I am going to share many of the items you should include on your packing list for traveling with your autistic child. Your list may look slightly different than this one because you are going off your own family’s needs. However, it will give you an excellent idea of what you may or may not need for this time away from home. Of course, packing for a trip can be quite overwhelming, especially if it is your first time going away. Let’s chat and see how we can make this process as smooth as possible.
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Packing List for Traveling with Your Autistic Child
Favorite Snacks
Snacks are an important part of travel. When you are checking items off your packing list for traveling with your autistic child, don’t forget their favorite snacks. You will want them when your child is hungry and needs something to eat right away. Plus, these snacks offer comfort and the familiarity of home. This can be a huge help while on vacation. To keep your child's eating area clean .
Electronics
Sometimes all an autistic child needs is a little downtime watching their favorite show. Therefore, you will want to make sure your autistic child’s favorite electronics get packed. Don’t forget to pack the charging cord, battery charging packs, and anything else your child needs to use their device.
I have found packing a power strip can be helpful. Especially in rooms where there aren’t a lot of plugs. Or those plugs are in really weird locations.
Noise Canceling Headphones
Airports, attractions, and other places can be noisy. Add in the fact you are in a new destination, and your autistic child may become overstimulated more than normal. Noise-canceling headphones can be an easy way to prevent sound overload.
Chewy
Bring a chewy along with you. This not only helps to soothe your child especially if they mouth objects often, but it also helps to release inner ear pressure when your flight takes off and lands. My youngest really likes to chew on things and it also helps to release some stress for him when we travel with his chewy. I like to have the chewy clipped to his shirt.
Travel-Friendly Things to Do
Coloring books, crayons, travel games, and books are all items that will keep your autistic child busy while you are traveling. Sitting on a plane is never a lot of fun and these items can be used in between times your child is using their electronic device.
Bedding
Some autistic children have sensory issues and don’t like certain sheets or blankets. If this is your child, I recommend taking sheets and blankets with you when traveling. This will make bedtime much easier because your child will feel comfortable with what they are sleeping on and under.
A weighted blanket can assist with sensory issues on airplanes, at airports, and even while in a hotel room. You may want to see if your autistic child can benefit from one of these prior to your vacation. You can also bring along your own weighted sheets.
Documents
You will obviously need all your travel documents. However, most people forget to pack their medical documents. You will want to make sure you have copies of any prescriptions and a doctor’s note describing your child’s diagnosis. You may want to take medical history notes if you think you will need them.
Other Packing List Items Include:
Clothing - Take clothes that are appropriate for the weather in your destination. I recommend taking a couple of extra outfits just in case. Bright-colored shirts are great when you are visiting busy theme parks. They make it easier to spot your children in crowds. Have your autistic child help choose their clothes, so they have a few of their favorites to wear.
Baseball hat
Favorite water bottle - If your autistic child has a favorite type.
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Extra pair of shoes - These can be helpful if one pair all of a sudden feels uncomfortable to your autistic child.
Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash, and Soap - Many autistic kids only like certain scents, so taking your own can make showering much easier.
Flashlight
Prescription and over-the-counter medications
Your autistic family will probably need other items that are not on this list. And you may be able to skip an item or two on this packing list for traveling with your autistic child. It is all dependent on what your autistic child will need to be comfortable in new settings. I would love to help you plan your next autistic family vacation. Contact me today to see how I can help your next vacation go as smoothly as possible.
