Travelling abroad with a child who has additional needs or a disability can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With thoughtful preparation and the right tools, you can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable for everyone. Below, you’ll find useful tips, helpful resources, and "Did you know?" facts to help your family have a successful trip abroad.
1. Check Accessibility and Support Before You Go
It’s essential to know what to expect when it comes to accessibility, especially in a new country. Research your destination thoroughly:
Accommodation: Ensure your hotel or holiday rental has accessible rooms with ramps, lifts, or bathrooms that meet your child's needs. Contact the hotel directly to confirm.
Transport: Not all countries have accessible public transport, so find out if you’ll need to pre-book wheelchair-friendly taxis or rent an accessible vehicle.
Medical services: Familiarise yourself with local hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies in case you need emergency care or prescription refills.
Did you know? Many European cities, like Barcelona and Berlin, have excellent accessibility for wheelchair users, while others, especially older cities, may present more challenges. AccessAble is a great tool for researching accessible venues both in the UK and abroad.
Useful link: AccessAble offers detailed information about accessible places, including hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
2. Contact Your Airline or Travel Provider Early
Whether flying with TUI, EasyJet, or another airline, always inform them about your child’s additional needs as early as possible. Most airlines offer special assistance, but these services need to be arranged in advance:
Request priority boarding and assigned seating near the front or back of the plane (this is often free of charge).
Ask for help at security or with luggage if needed. Many airports have dedicated lanes for families who need extra time or space.
If your child struggles with crowds or noisy environments, inform the airline about their sensory sensitivities.
Did you know? You can bring medical equipment and mobility aids like wheelchairs or strollers onto flights free of charge. Airlines are legally required to accommodate these at no extra cost.
Tip: If your child doesn’t have a formal diagnosis but still needs accommodations (like fear of flying or anxiety in crowded spaces), get a letter from your GP. This can be helpful when requesting assistance from airlines or transport providers.
3. Pack a Sensory-Friendly Kit
Travelling can be overwhelming for children with sensory sensitivities, especially in busy airports and confined spaces like planes. From personal experience, blocked or popping ears during flights can be particularly distressing for children. A well-prepared comfort kit can make a huge difference:
Earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to block out loud noises or help with ear pressure during take-off and landing.
Snacks and drinks your child is familiar with, especially if they have food sensitivities.
Fidget toys, sensory items, or a favourite blanket to provide comfort and reduce anxiety.
Did you know? Chewing gum or sucking on a sweet during take-off and landing can help relieve the discomfort of popping ears. For younger children, a bottle or pacifier can have the same effect.
4. Gather Important Documents
It’s essential to have all the necessary paperwork ready when travelling with a child who has additional needs:
Medical records: Carry a copy of your child’s medical history and any prescriptions they may need.
Medications: Bring more than enough medication for the trip, in case of delays. Keep them in your hand luggage in their original packaging, and have a doctor’s letter if you're carrying controlled substances or medical equipment.
Travel insurance: Make sure your insurance policy covers your child’s medical needs, including any pre-existing conditions. Double-check that it includes emergency medical evacuation if needed.
Did you know? The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or its replacement, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), allows UK residents to access healthcare in most European countries at a reduced cost or sometimes free of charge. However, it’s still essential to have comprehensive travel insurance.
Useful link: Apply for a GHIC.
5. Use Visual Schedules and Social Stories
Children with additional needs, particularly those with autism, often benefit from knowing what’s coming next. You can help reduce their anxiety by using visual schedules or social stories:
Create a simple timeline of the journey, including going to the airport, boarding the plane, and arriving at the destination.
Use photos or illustrations to help explain each step of the journey, making it easier for your child to understand.
Did you know? Many airports, including Heathrow and Gatwick, offer sunflower lanyards that discreetly signal to staff that your child has a hidden disability. This can help you access additional assistance or fast-track services.
6. Know Your Legal Rights
It’s important to know your rights when travelling with a child who has additional needs or a disability. Airlines, airports, and travel providers are legally required to make reasonable accommodations under both UK and EU law:
Equality Act 2010 (UK): Protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination and ensures they receive appropriate support when travelling.
EU Regulation 1107/2006: Requires airlines and transport providers to assist passengers with reduced mobility or disabilities, free of charge.
If you encounter resistance when asking for accommodations, referencing these laws can help ensure your family gets the assistance you need.
Useful links:
7. Plan for Downtime and Flexibility
Travelling with a child who has additional needs requires patience and flexibility. Allow extra time for breaks and don’t over-schedule your itinerary. Sometimes, your child may need downtime to recover from sensory overload or fatigue, so be prepared to adjust your plans.
Did you know? Many family-friendly destinations, such as Disney parks, offer disability access passes that allow you to skip long queues or access quieter areas, making the experience less stressful for your child.
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