Expert Tips for Traveling with a Child with DS
By Stephanie Cantwell, owner of Lost in Adventure Travel and mom to Blake
I get a lot of questions each week about what people can do to prepare for a vacation with a member with Down syndrome. While we all know that each person is unique, and will have their own needs, here are some general tips to help you prepare for your next vacation.
Air Travel
If you think that you may need some extra help at the airport, I highly recommend you sign up for TSA Cares - https://www.tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares
Many airlines will allow you to board early if you feel it's necessary.
There is a sensory room at many airports (in ATL it's in the F Concourse) - You can ask a Delta employee (Delta Red Coat) for assistance.
You can do a familiarization trip at the airport. These are usually monthly and allow you to experience the airport before the real day.
You may want to create a visual schedule for any new experiences your loved one may experience. This can help alleviate some stressors. Or, you can purchase one here - Airline Travel Visual Schedule
Hotel and Car Trips
Most people are more used to being in the car than an airplane, so for this, you usually need to prepare for the length of time in the car and the hotel stays
If they wear headphones, they can be your (and their) best friend.
Visual schedules are still a very useful tool.
Allow the individual to plan out what they want to do in the car, and let them have a role in packing.
Show photos and/or videos of where you are going. The less surprise, the better.
If you are planning to use a kids' club, teen club, or other planned activity, contact the property to ensure they are equipped to (and you are comfortable with the accommodations) work with your family member.
International Travel
The long flight can be similar to a long car ride, so really prepare for activities, and then explain the process of the airport, etc.
If you will be using other modes of transportation (like subways, trains, etc) while traveling, explain these processes as well. Have I mentioned a visual schedule yet? :)
Depending on the age of the individual, you can have a lot of fun discussing the language, culture, and currency differences.
If the individual has limited mobility, note that many other countries do not have sidewalks, roads, or hotels that are convenient for medical strollers or wheelchairs.
Be sure to research the destination on https://travel.state.gov/ and reach out to a travel professional that can help you navigate some of these more complicated itineraries and destinations.
Travel is a wonderful way to spend time together as a family and challenge yourself with new situations. Everyone deserves to explore this amazing planet we live on. Hopefully these tips help you feel more comfortable taking the trip! Please email me if you have any questions or would like help planning your next vacation - stephanie@lostinadventuretravel.com.