Summer is finally here again, and what better time to plan a family vacation than during this period?

Family vacations are great and can be a joyous occasion. While traveling with family can be fun, the process can be fraught with several challenges for those families with children who have special needs. 

The reality can quickly change from an adventurous time to a stressful ordeal. From ensuring family members and special needs children are safe and comfortable to logistical challenges associated with travel, parents are often overwhelmed.  

Vacationing with families with special needs children can be challenging, but you can transform travel experiences with proper planning. With thorough preparation, families can effectively address the common stressors of travel. Thoughtful planning can ensure special needs children’s needs are met, making it possible for them to enjoy their vacation.

We shall discuss some tips and tricks to making family home vacations more enjoyable and enriching for everyone, including special needs children. 

Pre-Travel Preparations: What To Do and What Not

A successful family vacation doesn't start when everyone is ready to pack their bags - it begins when you and your family have decided to travel. When traveling with special needs children, proper pre-travel preparation is fundamental to having an enjoyable trip.

Parents face additional hurdles, such as ensuring accommodations are accessible and sensory-friendly, managing medical needs, and establishing routines that will make their special needs children secure. The anxiety of traveling to an unfamiliar place and dealing with the unpredictability can be exhausting.

Here are two primary things to do to help you prepare effectively:

Create a Well-Thought Checklist

A comprehensive checklist ensures you pack all the essentials for the trip. It helps keep you organized during the preparation. This can be a lifesaver when it comes to vacationing. Here's how to create a well-organized checklist:

• Ensure to pack up all necessary medications and their dosages. For more safety, I recommend packing extra medicines. It will help in cases of delay and emergencies. Don't also forget to include equipment like inhalers or EpiPens.
• Include toys, blankets, and other comfort items for your special needs child. You can also bring sensory items, such as noise-canceling headphones, for your child if they use them.
• Packing books, games, and electronic devices with your child’s favorite shows can ease trouble and bring tranquility. The devices won’t charge themselves, so remember to include chargers.
• Include clothing and a few extra sets appropriate for the vacation. Consider the weather and changing temperatures when planning the clothes to pack. More importantly, include personal items like toiletries, wipes, and diapers. 

Research the Destination and Accommodation

The right destination and accommodation can be vital for families with special needs children. It ensures everyone has a comfortable and enjoyable vacation. Below are some tips for selecting the best option:

• Look for accessible and accommodating family-oriented destinations ideal for special needs children.
• Choose locations with beautiful attractions and family-friendly activities.
• Consider destinations with less sensory overload if your child is sensitive to busy environments.  
• If you will be moving to a rental apartment or hotel, contact the management beforehand to discuss your specific needs. Confirm the availability of beds for special needs children. If there's none, come with a travel bed. Safe Place Bedding has several travel beds you can purchase for your special needs children.
• It would help if you read reviews from other families with special needs children to determine the suitability of the accommodation. You can also ask them for recommendations.
• Check if the accommodation offers special services or amenities to make you and your family more comfortable.

Meticulously planning can set for an enjoyable and stress-free vacation. A comprehensive checklist and thorough research ensure special needs children have a memorable experience. 

Travel Day Tips

Travel days can be stressful, particularly for children with special needs children. You don't want your special needs children to be stressed or feel inconvenienced. Employing the right strategies can help you navigate the stress and ensure a smoother journey. Here are a few tips to ease the travel day stress:

Arrive Early

Arriving early at the airport or departure stations can significantly reduce stress. Early arrival allows you to go through the check-in process and security checks. Additionally, it enables boarding without added pressure. Some transportation hubs, especially airports, offer priority services to families with special needs children.

For your special needs children, the additional time allows them to acclimate to the busy environment and provides a buffer for emergencies and unexpected delays. 

Stay Organized

It entails keeping all your travel documents and boarding passes intact and your checklist handy to ensure nothing is missing. Also, familiarize yourself with the airport layout or transportation station to know where essential facilities like restrooms are located.

Maintain Routines

For special needs children, it's essential to maintain a routine to prevent negative emotional triggers. It can help your child feel more secure and relaxed during travel. How do you maintain a routine?

Firstly, stick to regular meal times as much as you can. Bring along healthy snacks that your children enjoy. If your child eats at a specific time of the day, try to stick to that time. If they take regular naps, plan your schedule around these times. A well-rested child is less likely to get cranky.

Secondly, incorporate familiar activities into your travel day, such as watching a TV show or playing a beloved game. This helps to maintain normalcy.

Incorporating familiar activities or bringing familiar items provides comfort and security for your special needs child in an unfamiliar environment. Books and games can keep them entertained during the journey.

Safety First: Travel Easy, Travel Safely!

Safety is crucial when traveling with special needs children. To ensure your safety and that of your children, here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Your child should wear an ID bracelet containing their essential information. This can become helpful in case of separation in a crowded place.
• Always carry a medical information card that specifies your child's medical condition and instructions on using their medications. It can be important in emergencies.
• It's also essential to write down local emergency contacts, such as the nearest hospital, in an emergency.

Engaging in Activities

Family vacations shouldn't be boring; they should be fun for everyone, including your special needs children. Engaging in some family-friendly activities can help to spice up your stay. Here are a few I recommend:

• Outdoor Adventures: Look for accessible and sensory-friendly outdoor activities that can provide an inclusive experience for everyone. National parks are the perfect destinations.
• Cultural Sites: Cultural sites are often a great place to have a nice time out with family. Places where you can explore different cultural experiences are museums.
• Entertainment: What's more fun than going to the movies with your family? A drive-in theater could also work if your child is sensitive to crowded environments. However, be careful of the movie selection. You don't want to trigger your child. 
• Relaxation Time: Beach, pool, and spa are some places to unwind. Relaxation is crucial for everyone to recharge before they return home. 

Wrapping Up 

Yes! You can travel with peace of mind and make family vacations more enjoyable if you follow these tips and tricks. You can give your family and children an enjoyable and rewarding experience with proper planning and the right tools.

Visit Safe Place Bedding for more tips and resources on making your special needs children more comfortable. We offer various products designed to enhance the comfort of your special needs children during travel, ensuring you have peace of mind.