Travelling to your summer holiday

You’ve finally booked that summer holiday. The one with the clear swimming pool and the promise of some much-needed family rest.

But before you can get to the relaxing part, there’s the journey. Specifically, navigating the airport and flight with your autistic child.

Take a deep breath, you’re not alone, and there’s a lot you can do to make travel smoother. With a bit of planning (and yes, some trial and error), flying doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, it can become a manageable part of your family adventures.

Here are some practical ways to help prepare your autistic child for air travel:

✈️ Ask for Special Assistance

Most UK airlines offer support for neurodivergent travellers, things like priority boarding, advanced seat selection, or having someone on hand at the airport to help when things get tricky. Some staff even go the extra mile, like the time my son was invited into the cockpit before takeoff to ease his anxiety during a delay.

🧠 Use Visual Planners and Previews

Showing your child what to expect can really reduce anxiety. Some airports and airlines have walkthrough videos or visual guides specifically designed for neurodivergent passengers.

🪑 Choose Seats Thoughtfully

Aisle seats can help if your child needs quick access to the toilet or to move about, while window seats may offer a comforting view and fewer disturbances. Think about what works best for your child and plan accordingly.

🎒 Keep Comforts Close

Pack essential items in an easy-to-reach bag. Noise-cancelling headphones, familiar snacks, sensory toys, or even a tablet with downloaded shows. I always make sure my son has a chewable sensory toy during take-off and landing to help manage pressure changes.

👩‍✈️ Talk to the Cabin Crew

Let the crew know about your child’s needs when you board. Most are incredibly understanding and will go out of their way to offer quiet support if something comes up during the flight.

🌍 Remember – This Is a Learning Experience

Every trip is different, and it’s OK if everything doesn’t go perfectly. With each journey, you and your child will learn more about what works and what doesn’t.

With some planning and the right tools, the journey can be part of the adventure, not just something to survive.