12/08/2026
โ๏ธ๐ Travel Tips for Families Traveling With an Autistic Child or Loved One With a Disability
Traveling through an airport can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for autistic children and individuals with intellectual, developmental, medical, or hidden disabilities. But there are resources and accommodations families can ask about to help make the experience more comfortable.
๐ป TSA CARES
TSA offers a FREE program called TSA Cares for passengers with disabilities, medical conditions, and other special circumstances.
TSA Cares can help families better understand the security screening process and may help coordinate additional assistance at the security checkpoint.
When possible, contact TSA Cares at least 72 hours before your flight to request assistance.
๐ป Learn more or request assistance here:
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares
๐ ASK ABOUT PREBOARDING
If your child or loved one needs additional time or assistance getting settled on the airplane, contact your airline before traveling and ask what disability accommodations and preboarding options are available.
You can also speak with the gate agent before boarding begins and explain that your child has a disability and may need additional time or assistance boarding and getting settled.
๐บ ASK ABOUT SEATING ACCOMMODATIONS
If your child needs to sit beside a parent, caregiver, or support person because of their disability, let the airline know as early as possible.
Be specific about the accommodation needed rather than simply requesting a preferred seat.
๐ป LOOK FOR THE HIDDEN DISABILITIES SUNFLOWER
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a discreet way for someone to communicate that they have a non-visible disability and may need additional time, patience, understanding, or assistance.
Some participating airports provide Sunflower lanyards or other Sunflower items, so check with your departure airport before traveling.
๐ง PACK A SENSORY TRAVEL KIT
Consider bringing familiar items that can help your child regulate and feel comfortable throughout the trip, such as:
๐ Noise-canceling headphones
๐ Favorite snacks
๐ A favorite blanket or comfort item
๐ Tablet or preferred entertainment
๐ Sensory/fidget items
๐ Chargers
๐ A change of clothing
๐ Any essential medications or medical supplies
Keeping carry-on luggage manageable can also help caregivers keep their hands available to support their child.
๐ COMMUNICATE YOUR CHILD'S NEEDS
You may want to have a simple written explanation of your child's needs available, especially if they are nonverbal, communicate differently, become overwhelmed by touch or crowds, or need additional processing time.
TSA also has a Disability Notification Card that travelers may use to discreetly communicate a disability or medical condition to TSA officers.
๐ข AND DON'T FORGET ABOUT CRUISES!
If you're cruising, contact the cruise line's accessibility department before your trip and ask about accommodations for autistic travelers and individuals with developmental disabilities.
Some cruise lines offer services such as early boarding, boarding assistance, sensory-friendly activities, and other autism-friendly accommodations.
๐ธ THE BIGGEST TIP: ASK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL!
Every airline, airport, and cruise line may handle accommodations a little differently, so reach out ahead of time and tell them exactly what your loved one needs.
Traveling with a disability may require a little extra preparation, but families deserve opportunities to travel, make memories, and experience the world together. ๐โ๏ธ๐
Please share this with another autism, IDD, disability, or special-needs family who may be traveling soon!
