8 Sensory-Friendly Travel Tips: Preparing Summer Vacations
Posted by Jesse on 3rd June 2024
Traveling can be a joyful and enriching experience, but it can also present unique challenges for individuals with sensory processing challenges. Preparing adequately and having the right tools can make all the difference in creating a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Here are some sensory-friendly travel tips, along with a spotlight on three fantastic products designed to help manage sensory needs on the go.
Sensory-Friendly Travel Tips
1. Plan Ahead
The key to a successful trip is thorough planning. Research your destination and accommodations to ensure they can cater to sensory needs. Look for quiet spaces, sensory-friendly attractions, and any special accommodations that might be available.
2. Create a Visual Schedule
Using a visual schedule can help individuals understand the itinerary and what to expect each day. This can reduce anxiety and provide a sense of structure and predictability.
3. Pack Sensory Tools
Bringing along familiar sensory tools can provide comfort and regulation during travel. Here are three of our highly recommended kits that can make your journey more manageable:
This kit is designed to help individuals calm down and self-regulate in new and potentially overwhelming environments. It includes a variety of calming tools such as a stress ball, a weighted lap pad, and a soothing gel-filled cushion. These items can provide tactile input and pressure that can be grounding and comforting.
Sensory Regulation Success Kit
This comprehensive kit includes an array of sensory tools designed to support self-regulation. It features items like noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, and visual timers. These tools can help manage sensory overload and provide strategies to maintain focus and calmness.
Fidgeting can be a great way to cope with stress and maintain focus, especially during long trips. This kit includes a selection of fidget spinners and tactile toys that can keep hands busy and minds engaged. The portability of these items makes them ideal for travel.
4. Prepare for Transitions
Transitions can be particularly challenging during travel. Prepare for them by providing advance notice, using visual schedules, and offering sensory breaks as needed. Practice transitioning from one activity to another at home to build familiarity and ease the process.
5. Communicate Needs
Don’t hesitate to communicate your sensory needs to travel staff, hotel personnel, and others. Many places are becoming more aware and accommodating of sensory needs and may have specific services or spaces available.
6. Allow Extra Time
Rushing can increase stress and anxiety. Allow extra time for all aspects of your travel, including packing, getting to the airport, and moving between activities. This buffer time can help manage unexpected sensory challenges without feeling pressured.
7. Have a Backup Plan
Even with the best planning, things may not always go as expected. Having a backup plan, including alternative activities and routes, can help reduce stress if plans need to change.
8. Celebrate Successes
Acknowledge and celebrate each successful step of the journey. Positive reinforcement can boost confidence and make future travel experiences more enjoyable.
Traveling with sensory needs requires thoughtful preparation and the right tools, but it can lead to incredible experiences and cherished memories. By incorporating these tips and utilizing sensory-friendly products like our Personal Calming Sensory Kit, Sensory Regulation Success Kit, and Perfect Fidget & Spin Kit, you can create a travel experience that is enjoyable, comfortable, and enriching for everyone involved. Happy travels!