Traveling with sensory needs ❤️
Travel is one of my autistic special interests. I have been obsessed since childhood when my parents would take my sister and I on roadtrips across the country.
Since then, I've visited 30/50 of the states, gone on adventures to Prague, Amsterdam, London and Cancun, to name a few. But none of this would be possible if I didn't accommodate myself along the way.
Even prior to my diagnosis, I prepared months in advance for these trips. Doing deep dive research, finding every morsel of information that I could about each location. What the food was like, the best places to stay, the culture, what is transportation like?
Requirements when I travel these days: Keeping a fraction of my routine, even if it's just my skincare, coffee or makeup. Taking frequent breaks: gone are the days of packing as much into a day as possible. And maybe, most importantly: lower those expectations! It's not going to be perfect, and it doesn't need to be.
Sound off in the comments: Where is your favorite place to travel, and how do you make your trips a success, even with your disabilities in mind?
#actuallyautistic #disabledtravel #disabled #traveling #traveltips #autisticadult #autisticcreator #fyplemon8 #neurodivergent #accomodation
When traveling, it's crucial to address sensory needs to ensure a positive experience. Autistic travelers often thrive by maintaining a sense of routine, even during vacations. This can include sticking to familiar skincare, enjoying a morning coffee ritual, or adhering to a specific meal schedule. Research shows that sensory-friendly practices, such as planning frequent breaks, can greatly enhance comfort. For instance, choosing accommodations that provide quiet spaces or are less crowded can make all the difference. Additionally, understanding the culture and environment of a destination ahead of time helps in anticipating sensory triggers and creating a more enjoyable experience. Lowering expectations is also vital. It's essential to recognize that things may not go as planned, and that's okay. Embracing flexibility in travel routines can lead to unexpected adventures that still cater to sensory needs. Don't forget to connect with fellow travelers who share similar experiences. Engage with communities focused on disabled travel, such as #actuallyautistic and #disabledtravel, where you can share tips and stories. These interactions not only provide inspiration but also foster a sense of belonging within the travel community.
Ooh these are good. My favorite place to travel is actually Orlando to go to Disney and Universal Studios! I bring my own snacks so i have safe foods available, and go with a safe person that knows how to handle me in case i get overstimulated. I also go during off season always so there’s less people!