Traveling has always been a mixed bag for me. On one hand, the excitement of going somewhere new, the thrill of planning an itinerary, and the chance to escape daily routines are exhilarating. On the other hand, as an autistic person with sensory sensitivities, travel can feel like wading through a minefield of unpredictability. Crowded airports, flashing lights, jarring noises, and scratchy hotel sheets—every detail has the potential to derail my trip.
But over time, I’ve learned how to prepare for these challenges. My travel pack is more than just luggage; it’s a portable sanctuary, designed to keep me comfortable, calm, and ready to handle whatever the journey throws at me. Here’s a deep dive into the essentials that make traveling not only manageable but (dare I say) enjoyable, along with some thoughtful gift ideas for your favorite autistic traveler.
Building Your Sensory-Friendly Travel Pack
Noise-Canceling Headphones
Let’s start with the holy grail of sensory sanity. Airplane engines, crying babies, chatty seatmates—it’s all too much without a good pair of headphones. When I first tried noise-canceling headphones, it felt like stepping into a soundproof cocoon. Now, I never leave home without them.
- Why: Blocks out unpredictable and overwhelming noises.
- Best Picks:
- Luxury: Sony WH-1000XM5 for unparalleled sound quality.
- Budget: Anker Soundcore Q30, an affordable option with impressive performance.
- Pro Tip: Download white noise or calming playlists in advance. I keep a playlist of rain sounds handy—it’s my instant anxiety buster.
Weighted Blanket or Lap Pad
There’s nothing like the grounding comfort of a weighted blanket during a long flight or road trip. It’s like carrying a hug in your backpack.
- Why: Provides deep-pressure stimulation to regulate and calm the nervous system.
- Best Pick: YnM Weighted Blanket, available in travel-friendly sizes.
Sensory-Friendly Travel Pillow
Finding a comfortable position on a plane is a challenge for anyone, but for me, it’s the textures that matter most. Scratchy fabrics or stiff pillows are a no-go.
- Why: Ensures comfort while avoiding irritating materials.
- Best Pick: Trtl Travel Pillow Plus, with its soft, adjustable design.
Sunglasses or Light-Dimming Glasses
Overhead lights in airports and harsh sunlight during road trips are sensory overload triggers. Sunglasses are more than a fashion statement—they’re a necessity.
- Why: Protects against bright, overwhelming lighting.
- Best Picks:
- For blue light indoors: Felix Gray Blue Light Blocking Glasses.
- For sunlight: Classic Ray-Ban Wayfarers.
Compression Clothing
Compression shirts and leggings are my secret weapon for long travel days. The gentle pressure is calming, like a constant reassurance that I’m anchored to myself even when the world feels chaotic.
- Why: Helps manage sensory overload with calming pressure.
- Best Pick: Underworks Compression Shirts, subtle and easy to wear under regular clothes.
Portable Sensory Toolkit
When travel gets overwhelming, having a sensory toolkit on hand can be a lifesaver. Mine includes a mix of tactile, auditory, and olfactory tools.
- What to Include:
- Fidget Toys: Tom’s Fidgets Flippy Chain.
- Aromatherapy Inhalers: Plant Therapy Travel Set.
- Chewelry: Ark’s Chewelry for discreet oral stimming.
Comfortable Clothing
The wrong clothes can ruin a trip before it even starts. For me, it’s all about soft fabrics, no tags, and zero scratchiness.
- Best Picks:
- Loungewear: L.L. Bean Ultrasoft Sweats.
- Breathable Basics: Uniqlo AIRism Underwear.
Scent-Free or Autist-Friendly Toiletries
Overpowering hotel soap or heavily fragranced public restrooms are sensory nightmares. Stick to hypoallergenic, unscented products.
- Best Picks:
- Body Wash: Vanicream Gentle Body Wash.
- Shampoo: Free & Clear Shampoo.
Optional (But Amazing) Add-Ons
Sometimes, it’s the extras that elevate a trip from bearable to brilliant:
- Portable Fan: JISULIFE Handheld Fan, perfect for cooling off during meltdowns.
- Tablet with Accessibility Features: iPad Mini, great for streaming soothing videos or playing low-pressure games.
- Snacks for Energy Regulation:
- Crunchy: Nature’s Bakery Fig Bars.
- Soft: RXBARs.
Thoughtful Gifts for Autistic Travelers
If you’re shopping for an autistic friend or family member, consider these practical and sensory-friendly gifts:
- Weighted Plush Toys: Hugimals Weighted Plushies.
- Noise-Reducing Earbuds: Bose QuietComfort Earbuds for discreet auditory regulation.
- Adult Coloring Books:
- Relaxing: Secret Garden by Johanna Basford.
- Humorous: Calm the F*ck Down by Sasha O’Hara.
Final Thoughts
Traveling as an autistic person doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right gear, you can turn the chaos into something manageable—maybe even enjoyable. Whether you’re packing for yourself or shopping for someone else, focus on items that bring comfort, predictability, and sensory relief.
Because the truth is, the world is unpredictable, but your travel pack doesn’t have to be. It can be a safe haven—a little bubble of calm in an otherwise chaotic journey. Happy travels!
