Traveling With a Sensory-Sensitive Child: Tips for a Calmer Journey
Travel brings excitement, but also unpredictability — new sounds, new people, long waits, unfamiliar beds, and transitions that can feel overwhelming.
At The Village Therapy Place, we help families prepare for travel with practical sensory tools that make the journey smoother.
Create a Small Sensory Travel Kit
Pack items such as:
Headphones
Chewy snacks
Suckable snacks (great for regulation)
Fidgets
A favorite stuffed animal
Lap pad
Hand wipes
A small visual schedule
This kit becomes your child’s “portable safety zone.”
Use Movement Before Travel and During Breaks
Try:
Jumping
Stretching
Pushing luggage
Walking hallways
Breathing exercises
Movement prevents dysregulation from building.
Prepare Your Child With Photos and Scripts
Show pictures of the airport, car, house, or relatives
Practice security lines with a pretend play setup
Explain when breaks will happen
Children feel safer when they understand the plan.
Honor Their Comfort Needs
If your child prefers:
Sitting on the aisle
Wearing comfy clothes
Avoiding new foods while traveling
Sitting away from the noise
Keeping a comfort item close
It’s okay. Meeting sensory needs is a success.
You’re Building Positive Travel Memories — One Step at a Time
Traveling with a sensory-sensitive child requires flexibility, patience, and creativity. You’re doing an incredible job supporting your child through a challenging experience.
