Any parent of a child with autism knows that travel comes with challenges – especially when flying. The airport process is packed with transitions, crowds, lines, and sensory overload… and that’s before you even reach the TSA checkpoint.
As a parent of a neurodiverse child, and the founder of a luxury travel agency for families like mine, I want to share how we’ve learned to manage (and even enjoy!) flying with our autistic son, Owen.
Step 1: Understand Airline Policies for Autism Support
Many airlines offer accommodations for families traveling with autistic children – but policies vary and aren’t always clearly stated online.
✅ Pro Tips:
- Preboarding is often available with a medical note or notation on the reservation. Always reconfirm at the gate.
- Family Seating is usually honored, but it’s best to call the airline in advance to guarantee it.
- Notify the airline if your child has specific needs (like avoiding a pat-down or needing extra time to board).
Step 2: TSA with Autism – What You Need to Know
Security checkpoints can be one of the most overstimulating parts of the airport for neurodiverse children. Owen often felt overwhelmed by the rush, noise, and unfamiliar routines.
✅ What Helped Us:
- TSA PreCheck: Shorter lines, no need to remove shoes, and far less stress. Many premium credit cards cover the fee.
- CLEAR Membership: Skips the ID check and includes an escort to the front of TSA lines – a great time-saver in large airports.
🧠 Pro Tip: TSA also offers a Passenger Support Specialist. You can request one in advance by contacting TSA Cares (1-855-787-2227).
Step 3: Prep at Home – Build Anticipation and Reduce Anxiety
In the two weeks leading up to a trip, we reduce screen time to make access on the flight more rewarding. This gives Owen something to look forward to – a new game, a special movie, or even a new app.
Other sensory prep:
- Bring lollipops, gum, or chewy snacks to help with ear pressure during takeoff and landing.
- Practice “airport days” at home – with timelines, visuals, or videos showing what to expect.
Step 4: Let Them Pack Their Own Carry-On
We help each child pack their own backpack to give them autonomy and comfort. Here’s our go-to autism-friendly carry-on packing list:
🎒 What Goes in the Backpack:
- 1 comfort item (stuffy)
- Switch or iPad (with movies downloaded)
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Water bottle (filled after TSA)
- Hoodie or light jacket
- Favorite snacks
- Chapstick, Kleenex, hand wipes
- Travel-size barf bag
🧳 Pro Tip: I also pack backup power banks, chargers, and extra snacks like frozen Uncrustables – a lifesaver during delays.
🛡️ Step 4.5: Prioritize Safety and Communication
Safety was always our top priority – especially in busy, unfamiliar places like airports or amusement parks. A big part of that was making sure that if we ever got separated, Owen could still get help.
We discovered a company that makes custom temporary ID tattoos featuring the Autism puzzle piece, with the message:
“I am Autistic. If I am lost, please call [my number].”
These tattoos were waterproof, durable (they held up through pools, waves, waterslides – you name it), and came off easily with an alcohol wipe or hand sanitizer. They became one of the most valuable travel tools we used.
Over the years, these tattoos helped lifeguards, kids’ club staff, ticket agents, and even airline employees understand Owen’s needs more quickly – and treat him with the extra care or patience he sometimes required.
We also often dressed Owen in an Autism awareness shirt when traveling – a quiet, visual cue to those around us. It was our subtle way of asking for compassion in high-pressure public spaces.
Step 5: Arrive Early and Use the Airport Lounge
We arrive at the airport early to reduce stress. Lounge access – available through many premium travel cards — provides a calm, quiet space away from the crowds.
💼 Why Lounges Work for Us:
- Quiet seating and clean bathrooms
- Snacks, drinks, and even lattes or cocktails
- A chance to recharge and decompress before boarding
If lounges are busy, we use the lounge’s app to join a waitlist as soon as we arrive.
Final Thoughts: It’s All About the Routine
Turning the airport into a predictable, familiar routine has been a game-changer. Owen knows what to expect and even looks forward to flying.
We took our first trip to Europe last Thanksgiving, and I’ll never forget the look on his face as he explored new places. Travel has expanded his world in ways I never imagined possible – and I want the same for your family.
Ready to Travel with Confidence?
We specialize in designing luxury travel experiences for neurodiverse families – including tours, hotels, and detailed pre-departure prep that takes your child’s needs into account.
👉 Contact us today to begin planning a trip that’s tailored to your family’s unique strengths and challenges.
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