Neurodivergent Tips and Tricks: Packing for a Vacation

 

✈️ Travel Packing Tips for Neurodivergent Folks

It’s summer—which means it’s travel season! Whether you’re hopping on a plane, road-tripping with friends, or taking the train for the first time, packing can be a lot to handle—especially if you’re neurodivergent or traveling with someone who is.

Hi, I’m Alyssa! I’m 27, autistic, and I love traveling. Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to visit some pretty cool places like:

  • England (twice)

  • Orlando, Florida (lived there for 6 weeks!)

  • Paris, France

  • Athens, Greece

  • New York, California, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Arizona, Idaho, Washington, Wyoming, and British Columbia

  • Las Vegas + some awesome local Utah spots like Moab, Bryce Canyon, and St. George

If you’ve never gone on a vacation before, this blog is especially for you 💜

🧠 First Things First: Planning Makes Packing Easier

I won’t lie—I can usually pack in an hour or less. But I know that’s not realistic for everyone. If packing feels overwhelming, try giving yourself a full week to plan and break it into steps. A few things that help:

Ask yourself:

  • How long am I going to be gone?

  • How am I getting there? (Car? Plane? Train? Bus?)

  • What time am I leaving?

  • Where am I staying? (Hotel, Airbnb, family’s house, tent, etc.)

  • What will I be doing? (Activities, walking, swimming, dressy dinners?)

  • Do I have access to a laundry machine?

Knowing these things helps you figure out what kinds of clothes and items you'll really need—so you don’t overpack or forget something important.

🧳 Packing Smart: What Goes Where?

If you’re allowed to bring a suitcase and a backpack, I recommend this method:

  • Suitcase: Clothes, toiletries, bulkier items.

  • Backpack: All your in-the-moment needs. Think headphones, snacks, chargers, wallet, gum, meds, etc.

Why? Because 90% of the time, the backpack stays with you. And it’s annoying having to dig through a packed suitcase just to get a charger.

If you’re only allowed one backpack or bag, go for something roomy and structured. Try to pack light when you can—but if your trip is longer than 4 days, consider either bringing a second bag or using an on-site laundromat (if it’s cheaper than paying for an extra suitcase on a flight).

🧼 TSA Tips (If You’re Flying)

  • Be prepared to take your electronics out of your bag and place them in the TSA bins.

  • Good news: TSA has changed their rule—you don’t have to take off your shoes anymore! (Major win for sensory-sensitive travelers like me who hate the feeling of airport floors. 😬)

📝 The Essentials List

Here’s a basic packing list to get you started:

✅ Outfits for each day
✅ Pajamas (1–2 sets)
✅ Toothbrush + toothpaste
✅ Deodorant + any toiletries
✅ Makeup (if you wear it)
✅ Hairbrush/comb
✅ Travel-size shampoo + conditioner (especially if you’re not staying in a hotel!)
✅ Travel-size lotion
✅ Phone + device chargers
✅ Portable power bank (multiple are necessary if you're going to an amusement park)
✅ Medications (with labels if needed)

🧸 Sensory-Friendly Must-Haves

If you have sensory needs, here are some extra items I personally recommend:

🎧 Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs
🖍️ Travel coloring book + Twistable crayons or pencils (no sharpener needed!)
🧩 A favorite fidget toy or stim item
🧸 A small comfort item (like a soft scarf or plushie)


Even spontaneous trips can go more smoothly with a bit of planning. You don’t have to be perfect—you just have to pack what you need to feel prepared, safe, and comfortable.

If you're going on a trip soon, safe travels! ✨
I'd love to hear from you—How do you prepare for trips?
Drop your tips and tricks in the comments below 👇

If you liked this blog post, PLEASE comment down below what your favorite part was, share with your friends and family, etc.  Have any comments, questions, etc. about what you were reading? Reach out to me by messaging me on Instagram or TikTok @neurospicyblondie or email me  alyssa.onthespectrum@gmail.com.  




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