5 Sensory-Friendly Travel Tips for Summer Adventures

Summer means sunshine, road trips, new places—and for many neurodivergent kids, that also means sensory overload. From loud airports to scratchy hotel sheets, unfamiliar settings can overwhelm sensitive systems and take the joy out of travel. But it doesn’t have to be that way!

Whether you’re headed to grandma’s house or planning a beach vacation, here are five practical and sensory-friendly travel tips to help your child feel safe, calm, and included along the way.

1. Prep with a Visual Schedule

Uncertainty can be stressful for kids who thrive on routine. Try creating a visual schedule showing the steps of your trip—packing, car ride, hotel, activities, etc. This gives your child a sense of predictability and reduces anxiety around “what’s next.”

💡 Pro tip: Laminate it or use Velcro pieces for interactive fun!

2. Pack a Sensory Travel Kit

Having familiar tools on hand can help your child self-regulate in new environments. Fill a small bag or backpack with:

• Noise-reducing headphones or earplugs

• Fidget toys or squishies

• Favorite snacks with safe textures

• A calming scent (like lavender lotion or a scent jar)

• Weighted lap pad or small blanket

• Sunglasses or a baseball cap for bright spaces

👜 Bonus: Let your child help choose what goes in—giving them ownership can ease stress!

3. Choose Accommodations with Comfort in Mind

If possible, look for sensory-friendly hotels or Airbnbs with quieter locations, blackout curtains, and soft bedding. Some families even bring their own sheets or weighted blanket to recreate the comfort of home.

🚪 Ask ahead about things like elevators, room location (away from noise), or scent-free options.

4. Plan for Downtime

It’s tempting to cram in every attraction, but don’t forget to schedule breaks! Sensory systems need time to decompress. Build in quiet moments each day—like a picnic under a shady tree or a movie night in the hotel room.

📅 Use a timer or visual countdown to help transitions from activity to rest time.

5. Practice at Home First

New experiences are easier when they’re not completely new. If you’re flying, try watching airport walkthrough videos or visiting a local airport. If staying in a hotel, practice sleeping in a sleeping bag or trying new routines at home.

🛫 Role play helps kids build confidence and prepares their brain for the real thing!

Final Thoughts:Summer travel doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning and the right supports, your child can enjoy the adventure—and you can too. These moments might look different, but they can be just as magical.

☀️ Want a sensory travel checklist to go with this post? grab a printable from our shop!