10 Helpful Tips When going Vacation with an Autistic Child

So you are going on a Holiday/Vacation with an autistic child

Woooooop

Mee toooooo.

Going on vacation with an autistic child can feel daunting, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can become an incredibly fulfilling experience.

As an autistic mom to a child who is also on the spectrum, I know firsthand the effort it takes to make vacation with an autistic child enjoyable for everyone.

Whether it is a road trip, a flight across the world, or a simple getaway, prepping for a vacation with an autistic child requires special planning, patience, and flexibility.

I have been on airplanes more times than I can count and my young Autistic child is also extremely well traveled.

I still, even as a grown ass woman experience anxiety every single time I fly.

Table of Contents

1. Early Preparation for a Vacation with an Autistic Child

Planning is everything when it comes to a successful vacation with an autistic child.

For us, the preparation starts as soon as we book our trip.

I make sure my child knows exactly when we are going, how long we will be gone, and what they can expect.

This helps reduce anxiety and creates a sense of control.

Visual Learners Love Stories

If your child is a visual learner like mine, show them videos and pictures related to your destination.

Whether it is:

Images of the hotel,
The nearby beach, or even
The mode of transportation you’ll be using,

These visuals can make the unfamiliar feel familiar.

I also love using storybooks and social stories that depict similar trips to help them envision the experience.

Involving Them in the Packing Process

One of the best ways to engage my autistic child is by involving them in the packing process.

Allowing them to choose which clothes they want to pack and deciding on their comfort items is crucial.

Comfort items can range from a favorite stuffed toy to a cozy blanket.

It is essential to make them feel they have some control over their environment during the vacation.

Why Control Matters

Autistic children thrive on predictability.

In a world that often feels unpredictable, giving them some control over the small things can make a significant difference.

For my child, having their favorite toy or choosing their outfits helps ground them and provides a sense of familiarity in a new environment.

I have my own rituals such as deep cleaning my house before I go on any holiday.

I have no idea why I always have to do it but it really helps me relax my nerves.

Everything must be sorted and done before I can leave.

2. Talking About the Mode of Transport

Whether you are traveling by plane, car, train, or boat, it is important to prepare your child for what is to come.

This can make all the difference in a smooth journey during your vacation with an autistic child.

Show Videos and Share Fun Facts

I like to show my child videos about the type of transportation we are using.

If it is a plane, we watch videos of takeoff, landing, and even boarding.

If it is a car ride, I talk about the route, what snacks we will have, and where we might stop along the way.

Giving them specific facts can keep them engaged.

For example, if they are interested in science, I might share an engineering fact about airplanes or talk about why the sky looks blue.

Special Tips for Plane Rides

Flying with an autistic child can come with its own set of challenges, but it’s manageable.

You can request special assistance by for Autism.

It means you do not have to queue for very long and their needs are taken into consideration.

You will basically be fast tracked.

Yes there will still be some queues.

But you get to go to the fast track lanes.

You can call the airline or airport beforehand and let them know.

There is a code you can say when booking your tickets or at the check in counter. That code is called “DPNA”

“Disabled passenger with intellectual or developmental disability needing assistance“

We have been given a special lanyard/necklace for our Autistic child to wear at any airport. This lets everyone know we have a special needs child.

You can request these at the special assistance help desks in airports.

It really does makes things easier.

Truly!

Give them specific facts about the mode of transport you are taking. Something that they can find fascinating and can focus on.

If your kid is into,

Science, make it a science fact
Or a math fact
Possibly an engineering fact
Facts about why they are the colour that they are.
Anything really.

Whatever they like.

3. Choosing the Right Type of Vacation with an Autistic Child

Where are you going?

Will it be cold or hot?
Beach, water or snow?
Maybe hiking
Or camping
Or you are going to a resort.

Give them facts about where you will be staying.

How many people in the hotel.
Where you will eat food.
What kind of foods will be there.

When deciding on the type of vacation with an autistic child, consider what environment will be most comfortable for your autistic child.

Are they more relaxed in quiet, natural settings, or do they enjoy the excitement of a busy resort?

Our family often opts for all-inclusive resorts because they provide a predictable routine and reduce the need to leave the premises for meals or activities.

The Comfort of All Inclusive Resorts

Staying at an all inclusive resort takes a lot of pressure off.

Knowing where meals will come from and what activities are available helps us plan our day with a clear structure.

I have a post on how to take your Autistic child out with you. And what to do if they do not want to.

Also how to keep them calm outside.

Read that post here…here…

I can check the menus ahead of time, which means there are no surprises about what my child can eat.

This is especially important if your autistic child has specific dietary preferences or restrictions.

The reason for this is because everything is included.

We know where we will eat. And I can see their menu online.

We do not have to leave the hotel unless we want to because everything is already there.

This accessibility has helped prevent many meltdowns and we can easily retreat back to the hotel room should things become too overwhelming.

It is very comforting to know and rely on this.

4. Must Have Items for a Vacation with an Autistic Child

Bringing the right equipment can make or break your vacation with an autistic child.

I have learned from experience that packing a few key items can help keep my child calm and engaged.

Snacks, Snacks, and More Snacks!

Never underestimate the power of a good snack.

I always take my child shopping beforehand and let them choose their favorite snacks for the trip.

Having a familiar treat on hand can be a great comfort during long journeys or moments of uncertainty.

Noise Canceling Headphones

If there is one thing I recommend investing in, it is a good pair of noise canceling headphones.

These help block out the overwhelming sounds of airports, train stations, or busy public places.

Preferably wireless headphones so as to not have the cord annoy your child or tangle up.

I can not tell you how many times these headphones have saved the day by giving my child a way to shut out the noise and find a moment of calm.

Entertainment Devices

Tablets, iPads, or game consoles like a GameBoy can be lifesavers.

We recently got my child a Paw Patrol themed handheld game console, and it is been a hit.

150 games on it so YES!.

Just make sure everything is fully charged and bring along a portable charger or power bank.

Toys and Books

Packing a couple of favorite toys and a book or two can keep your child entertained during quieter moments.

We bring Rubix cubes or simple card games they can play with us.

Whatever is their favourite toy or what they can get engrossed in completely.

Coloring books and activity pads are especially helpful because they can engage your child for long periods and encourage creativity.

Colouring equipment

Pencils,
Couring pencils,
Stencils
Paper/drawing book
Colouring book

Etc

Children can spend a long time on those things and they love it.

5. Preparing for Social Interactions During the Vacation with an Autistic child

One of the challenges of a vacation with an autistic child is helping them navigate social interactions. Whether it is meeting new people, dining in a restaurant, or playing with other kids, these situations can be stressful.

Using Social Stories for Practice

Social stories are an excellent tool for helping your child understand what to expect in social situations.

I read stories with my child that involve characters going on trips and interacting with others.

These stories show how to handle situations like waiting in line, saying “hello” to strangers, and ordering food at a restaurant.

It gives my child a framework for what’s expected, which helps build confidence.

Role-Playing

Role-playing potential interactions can be another fun and helpful way to prepare.

We practice things like checking into the hotel, asking for help, or even ordering a meal.

It makes these scenarios feel less daunting and more familiar when they happen for real.

6. Creating a Safe Space During the Vacation with an Autistic Child

Sometimes, despite all your best efforts, a vacation with an autistic child may lead them to become overwhelmed.

It is essential to create a safe space for them to decompress when needed.

Setting Up a Quiet Corner

Whether in a hotel room, cabin, or rental house, I always designate a quiet corner for my child.

This might include a cozy blanket, their favorite stuffed toy, and a tablet with calming apps or music.

This “safe space” gives them a place to retreat when they need a break from all the new sights, sounds, and interactions.

7. Making Use of Special Assistance and Accommodations

Most major travel hubs and accommodations are becoming more aware of the needs of families traveling with autistic children.

Do not hesitate to ask for special assistance, whether it is early boarding on a flight, a quiet dining area at a restaurant, or extra help at attractions.

Alerting the Staff

I always let hotel staff know that I am traveling with an autistic child.

They are usually accommodating and can offer suggestions or make arrangements to ensure our stay is comfortable.

The same goes for activities or excursions; a quick conversation with a tour guide can make all the difference.

8. Balancing Activities with Downtime on Vacation with an Autistic Child

While it is tempting to pack the itinerary with fun activities, it is essential to balance this with downtime.

Vacation with an autistic child can be overwhelming for anyone, but especially for an autistic child.

We often plan for one main activity per day, like visiting an amusement park or exploring a museum, and spend the rest of the time relaxing at the hotel or on the beach.

Recognizing When It’s Time to Rest

Pay attention to your child’s cues.

If they seem fidgety, anxious, or tired, it’s okay to call it a day and head back to your room.

The goal is to make the vacation with an autistic child enjoyable, not stressful.

For us, having a flexible plan and not being afraid to change it has made vacations much more enjoyable.

9. Preparing for the Unexpected During a Vacation with an Autistic Child

No matter how well you plan, unexpected situations can arise.

Flights can get delayed, weather can change, or attractions might be closed.

Preparing your autistic child for these scenarios can help manage their expectations and reduce stress.

Teaching Coping Strategies

We practice coping strategies at home that can be used during our vacation with an autistic child.

Breathing exercises, counting to ten, or even holding a comfort item can help my child manage their emotions.

Talking about what might happen if plans change also prepares them for the unexpected.

When going on vacation with an autistic child it is important to let them know that they should try their best to communicate with you.

I always tell my autistic child that I cannot always guess what they are going through and they can get help much faster and much better if they just try to explain to me what is going on inside their head.

A week before we go on vacation with an autistic child, whether it is my autistic child or my sisters, we try to help them understand the emotions that might come out during travelling.

We read several books on the different types of emotions and what could trigger those emotions during our nightly bedtime story reads.

As well as reading about the triggers, we always discuss the best ways to respond to these emotions once we have them and how to make the situation the best that we can once we have started feeling these things.

10. Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Vacation with Your Autistic Child

Amid all the planning, packing, and preparing, remember to enjoy the vacation with your autistic child.

Celebrate the small victories, like when they handle a social interaction well or when they try a new activity.

These moments are what make the experience special.

Embracing the Joys and Challenges

Going on vacation with an autistic child will have its ups and downs, but every trip is an opportunity to create wonderful memories.

Embrace the good moments, be patient during the tough times, and know that your efforts are worth it.

Vacation with an autistic child may come with challenges, but they also offer a unique chance for your child to learn, grow, and enjoy new experiences.

Whether it is splashing in the waves, riding a Ferris wheel, or simply building sandcastles, the memories you create on a vacation with an autistic child will last a lifetime.