In today’s world, flying anywhere can be a traumatic experience, especially for families with autism. From checking long packing lists to passing through the dreaded TSA line, it is all spells stress to frazzled parents. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Follow these 10 steps to plan better and make future flights with children with autism more enjoyable.
Make a List
The preflight preparations can be hard for parents, especially if children with autism are involved. Here is where a well-written list comes into play. Start by making a separate list for everyone in the family. Make sure to include medical papers, favorite clothes, shoes and accessories. Then create a family list that includes the passports, destination itineraries, vouchers and tickets.
Pack Lightly
All too often luggage gets lost, particularly on long-haul flights. No parent wants to deal with extra hassles. So, whenever possible, pack light: Light enough to only have to use a carry-on bag per person. By packing only a carry-on bag, travelers will not have to deal with check in counters or waiting around the luggage carousel .
Pack Separately for In-Flight
Keeping kids with autism happy on flights is an art. When traveling with children with autism, make sure to pack plenty of snacks and entertainment, as well as an extra set of dry clothes. There’s nothing like a spilled soda and wet clothes to start a meltdown at 37,000 feet in the air.
Prepare Your Kid
Not only is packing for the trip necessary but preparing your child with autism is too. An excellent way to prepare is to show them videos and pictures of what to expect during a flight. Moreover, call the airport and ask if they offer any autism programs. Some airports have programs that introduce kids with autism to airports and flying. As part of the program, the kids get to go through security, board a plane and even chat with the pilot.
Get to the Airport Early
On the day of the flight, make sure to check the traffic conditions to the airport. Always allow for extra travel time, as well as back up routes to take in case of accidents on the road. The TSA recommends being to the airport, at least two hours before the flight. However, in reality, it might take longer to pass through the checkpoints particularly during the summer or holiday season.
Know the Airport Layout
Knowing the airport layout could be a lifesaver for a parent of a kid with autism. Most airports have downloadable apps that can help travelers navigate the airports more efficiently. At some airports, you may have to leave the secure areas to purchase items such as drinks or food. Knowing this before you clear security can save some valuable time. Using the airport app can help travelers stay informed of delays or cancellations, as well as show vital information such as help desks and restrooms.
Sometimes a kid with autism is over stimulated by all the sounds and activities around them. A map could quickly show parents where the child play zones are, and even if the airport offers quiet family rooms. Quiet rooms are specially designated rooms that allow children with autism relax and regroup through a sensory overload episode.
Considering airport terminals are crowded and noisy, accessing a quiet airport lounge can be a lifesaver solution for some families. Access to airport lounges is a credit card benefit for some or can be purchased as a day pass. In the lounges, guests have access to free WiFi, showers, food, beverages and even entertainment. If the airport does not feature quiet rooms, an airport lounge is the next best thing to help kids with autism relax.
Ease Through TSA
The TSA Check points may just be one of the most annoying aspects of modern flying. All travelers now have a list of strict rules to follow. From mini containers of liquids to removing belts, jackets and shoes – it is highly stressful!
At the actual checkpoint, parents of children with autism can do several things to help speed up going through the checkpoint. Cooperation with the agent and adhering to instructions is key. Also, it helps if parents mention the child’s disability from the start, so the officer in charge is aware of the sensory challenges. Though not required by law having medical documentation with a description of the diagnosis, as further backup is also a good idea.
Frequent travelers can also register and apply for Global Entry or TSA pre-check. The program is particularly helpful for families with autism as it lets its participants keep their clothing and shoes on minimizing some of the stress associated with going through the check point.
Choose Seating Wisely
If possible, try and get the airplane seats you want as soon as seating selections open up. Some airlines have seat selection at time of booking flight, and others have it when boarding the plane.
For parents traveling with autism, selecting the appropriate seats can be pivotal in making sure the flight goes smoothly. Bulkhead seating and aisle seats are typically best as they allow the child to have a little more room to move around without disturbing other passengers.
Plan Ahead for Meals
Some parents forget that getting the proper meal is important for kids with autism. Though most airlines offer free snacks, many times meals are subject to purchase. Too often, the option your child prefers is sold out by the time the crew arrives at your seat. To prevent that from happening let the airline know as soon as possible if a guest has specific dietary needs or allergies.
Be friendly with the Flight Attendant
When traveling with a child with autism, parents should let the flight attendants know about the disability as soon as they board the plane. This way should the need for seat changes occur, the crew can adequately assess the situation and help.
Baggage Claim
If you cannot carry-on, cut the wait time at the conveyor belt for baggage claim. Visit shops or a quiet room in the airport instead of heading straight to baggage claim, to give your bags time to get through. If possible, have one parent go ahead to claim baggage, while another slowly gets through the airport.
Margalit Sturm Francus has lived in five different countries on three continents, where she exposed and educated her own children about the world. In 2009, she established a nonprofit website, Autistic Globetrotting, to inspire and encourage autistic families to explore the world. By communicating with both the autistic and travel communities, she aims to raise autism awareness and facilitate the implementation of much-needed accommodations for special needs travelers.
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