When reading tips about traveling with an autistic child, I often come across suggestions like choosing autism-friendly airlines and airports, using calming techniques, or distracting your child if they scream onboard. While these tips sound helpful in theory, they can come across as overly simplistic, if not impractical, when put into real-life situations. The majority of families don’t have the privilege of selecting autism-friendly airports, and even if they do, those airports, unfortunately, are far from perfect. We all know what’s considered “better” in ideal scenarios, but the reality of traveling with a special need child is far more unpredictable.
I once witnessed a mother struggling to calm her overwhelmed child while waiting in the boarding queue at an airport. Despite her best efforts, nothing seemed to soothe him, and he became more upset by the minute. As the child’s meltdown continued, passengers around them shot impatient glances, growing increasingly irritated. What stood out most, however, was how no one—neither the fellow passengers nor the staff—offered the mother any support, such as letting her cut the line and board first... It was a clear reminder that, in moments like these, the attitude and patience of those around us can make a huge difference. A little understanding can go a long way in easing the challenges families face during stressful situations.
Traveling with a medically or behaviorally complex kid can bring challenges that may disrupt your usual routine. However, it’s absolutely possible to make the journey enjoyable with the right preparation and strategies.
When we first started traveling with our child, we quickly realized that planning ahead, anticipating potential difficulties, and staying flexible were key to making things go smoothly. Like any parent, I want my child to experience the world, but sometimes travel is also necessary for medical reasons, such as visiting a specialist abroad. At times, traveling becomes unavoidable. Whether for adventure or medical care, ensuring that my child’s needs are met is essential for reducing anxiety and stress. Over the years, our family has developed strategies that have really helped us manage the challenges.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of preparation. Before we travel anywhere, I always research the destination thoroughly. This includes looking into accommodations, transportation options, and nearby medical facilities. Some destinations may offer autism-friendly services, which can be a huge help in reducing stress—though such services are still not always common. I also make sure to check for any support services at the airport, such as sensory rooms or accommodations for children with autism, to ensure a smoother experience once we get there.
DID YOU KNOW?
The DPNA (Disabled Passenger with Intellectual or Developmental Disability Needing Assistance) code was introduced by The International Air Transport Association over a decade ago.
It is designed to assist people with intellectual and developmental disabilities when traveling. Emirati blogger Khalid Al Ameri has a son on the autism spectrum. He created a video documenting a family trip from Abu Dhabi to Bahrain which he booked using the DPNA code on an Etihad flight spreading awareness on it. His video helped raise awareness among more parents, highlighting the crucial importance of accessibility and support for families traveling with special needs.
How would DPNA code improve your child's travel experience? In many ways!
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Assistance at the Airport: Staff can provide help with navigating the airport
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Queue-less check-in, passport control and customs
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Making sure that your family are all sitting together
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Window/bulkhead seats or easy access to the toilets
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Priority boarding
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Priority meal service during the flight
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Pretty much anything that will make your flight easier
So, the next time you book your flight, make sure to include the DPNA code and kindly ask airport staff to respect it. However, be aware that in some airports, staff members may not be familiar with the code. From my experience, Dubai International Airport stands out as one of the best, with staff going above and beyond to ensure a comfortable and smooth travel experience for children with special needs.
Another key aspect of traveling with a child on the spectrum is maintaining routine as much as possible. Sudden changes or transitions in their environment can be overwhelming, so I make sure to prepare my child ahead of time. For example, I used to use a visual schedule or social story to explain each part of the trip—from the car ride to airport security to the hotel check-in process. This helps my child understand what’s coming next and eases their anxiety by making the unknown feel more predictable.
Packing also requires special attention. I always bring comforting items to help my child feel secure, such as sensory toys, headphones, and snacks—especially if your child is on a special diet. Having something they recognize, like a favorite blanket, a book, a toy or a plushy, can help calm them and minimize sensory overload in unfamiliar settings. These items provide a sense of security and can make a big difference when traveling in stressful environments like airports or busy hotels.
Managing sensory overload in busy environment, such as airport also requires proactive measures. Noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs can help reduce auditory stimulation. Sunglasses can dim bright lights (my child could never tolerate them), and comfortable, loose-fitting clothing can minimize tactile sensitivities.
Finally, it’s important to remain flexible and patient. Traveling with a child on the spectrum doesn’t always go according to plan, so it’s essential to have a Plan B (and even a Plan C). There may be delays, meltdowns, or moments of sensory overload. I’ve learned that staying calm and being ready to adapt to changes is crucial for both my child’s well-being and my own peace of mind.
The more we traveled, the better my child responded to it—naturally learning to adapt to the routine of travel. With each trip, a child would become more accustomed to the process, gradually growing more comfortable and confident navigating new experiences. Over time, I noticed that repeated travel helped my child adjust more easily to new environments. As the routine became more familiar, each trip felt smoother than the last. With the right preparations and a bit of patience, traveling with a child with ASD can become a rewarding experience for the whole family—whether we’re exploring new places or traveling for necessary medical care.