Traveling with a Child Who Wanders: Autism Travel Safety Tips
Traveling with a child on the autism spectrum can be an exciting way to create unforgettable family memories. But for families with a child who has a history of wandering or eloping, planning a trip can bring additional challenges. By taking proactive steps and using key tools, you can help keep your child safe and enjoy a more relaxing vacation. Here are essential tips and product recommendations to keep in mind when planning your next getaway.
Choose the Right Hotel Room
Where you stay matters when traveling with a child who wanders. Here’s what to consider before booking:
Room Location: Avoid hotels where doors open directly to parking lots or outside areas. Choose hotels where rooms open to an indoor hallway or are inside a secure building.
Proximity to Water: If your hotel has a pool, nearby lake, or fountain, request a room that is far from these areas. This extra distance adds another layer of safety.
Balconies: If possible, select a room without a balcony, or make sure the balcony door can be securely locked.
Add a Door Chime
A battery-operated door chime is a helpful safety tool to bring on your trip. This simple device emits a loud alert when the door is opened. It’s easy to install using strong double-sided tape—just attach it to the top of the door, out of your child’s reach. The chime provides an early warning and added peace of mind. When it’s time to leave, it can be easily removed without damaging the door.
Use a Portable Door Lock
A portable door lock is an easy way to add extra security to your hotel room. These locks attach to the door and make it much harder for your child to open it, especially at night or when you’re in the bathroom. They’re compact, travel-friendly, and can help you feel more at ease during your stay.
Use a Medical ID Bracelet
A medical ID bracelet is essential when traveling. It should include your child’s name, diagnosis, and your contact information. In the event that you become separated, this bracelet can help others quickly identify your child and reach you. There are stylish, comfortable options available for children that they can wear throughout the trip.
Prepare with a Social Story
Before your trip, create a social story to help your child understand what it will be like to stay in a hotel. Explain that they’ll be sleeping in a different room for a few nights and describe what they can expect—from checking in at the front desk to exploring the hotel room. Use pictures from the hotel’s website to show them what the room, lobby, and other areas look like. Visual supports like these can make the experience feel more familiar. Talk about the fun parts of the trip, like sleeping in a cozy bed or seeing new places, while reassuring them that their family will be with them every step of the way.
Awareness Cards
Navigating the world with autism can sometimes be met with misunderstandings, but awareness cards are a valuable tool for bridging that gap. These small, discreet cards provide a concise explanation of autism and associated behaviors. Whether interacting with restaurant staff, flight attendants, or strangers in line at an attraction, these cards can foster empathy and patience. Awareness cards help others quickly understand your family’s unique needs, making challenging moments smoother and creating opportunities for kindness and support wherever you go. Download these free cards from the Autism Society of Massachusetts.
Project Lifesaver
If your child has a history of eloping, consider enrolling them in Project Lifesaver. This program provides tracking bracelets that help quickly locate individuals who wander. It’s connected to local first responders who use state-of-the-art radio technology to track and find participants in the event they go missing, significantly reducing search time. For families traveling to the Orlando area, Project Lifesaver also offers a Orlando Theme Parks Program, providing additional resources to ensure safety during outdoor adventures.
Plan Your Next Adventure with Expert Guidance
Traveling with a child on the autism spectrum requires careful planning and attention to detail, especially when safety is a top priority. As a travel advisor with 25 years of experience in the autism field, as well as certifications as a Certified Autism Travel Professional and Certified Accessible Travel Advocate, I specialize in creating personalized trips that meet your family’s unique needs. Whether it’s finding the right accommodations, ensuring safety measures are in place, or creating sensory-friendly itineraries, I’m here to help every step of the way. Contact me today, and let’s start planning your next unforgettable adventure!