I recently flew with my three young children. My youngest has special needs, and although I have traveled with my other two children easily, I found myself in uncharted waters which required me to do a little extra planning for my special needs child. Each special needs child is different and their needs may vary. I have developed the following list of tips on how to prepare, what to bring, what to expect, and who to contact to help other parents who are planning to travel by plane with their Special Needs children.
I have discovered that each airlines has slightly different requirements for traveling with special needs and recommend that you contact the airline before your flight to find out what their specific requirements are. Here is a list of some items I used on my last plane trip which helped make our flight, as well as our trip a success.
Luggage: A good rolling luggage with a sturdy handle is highly recommended. If your child is walking and does not require a wheel chair, you might want to consider a ride-on carry-on luggage accessory which converts wheeled luggage into a convenient travel stroller. If you will be traveling with a wheel chair and require assistance from your airline, contact your airline 72 hours in advance and they will provide assistance to accommodate your specific needs.
Medicine: It's a good idea to bring extra quantities of your child's specific medications along with any over the counter remedies in the event of sickness during your travel. I found it helpful to locate pharmacies and hospitals ahead of time so that I have maps and phone numbers before we even arrive. Planning for the worst always seems to provide assurance and relief. It's one reason why many of us have life insurance too.
Diaper bag: Your diaper bag can be your best friend if you do it right and pick the right bag. I discovered a diaper backpack that holds all our diaper changing essentials, snacks, toys and a change of clothes too. I use our diaper backpack as my carry-on and it fits the requirements even when packed full. It also has an insulated food storage area separate from the main compartment. It is important to have a comfortable backpack so your hands are free to hold on to more important things, like your special little one.
Food/Snacks: It is necessary and crucial to carry your own snacks when traveling. I found that healthy, high protein snacks help keep the blood sugar level balanced, and everyone thinking clearly. For those who have special diets, carrying your own food and snacks will help prevent illness, or reactions to food while traveling. If you need to bring special food for dietary issues, and extra water, you will need to bring a letter from your doctor. You may also be required to go through the hand inspection area for security screening at your airport so be sure to give yourself extra time for your flight.
Liquids and TSA regulations for special needs: Airlines provide water once you are on board, but you can still carry TSA approved travel bottles which will give you a little something to sip on during your flight. If you will require more water, your letter from the doctor will allow you to carry on larger quantities depending on your child's special needs. What ever you do, don't fill your bottle with the water from the sink on the plane. I had a flight attendant tell me not to drink the water from the lavatory sink. The Flight attendants have filtered drinking water they can serve you while you are in-flight.
Travel Toys and Activities: Distraction is the key to a successful flight. When you bring a selection of new travel toys and activities on your flight for your little one, you will be amazed at how the time will fly. I have found that toys that are brightly colored and simple seem to work great. The more compact the toys and games are, the more you can bring. Have a wide variety of items so that if you are only able to get 15 minutes out of one item, another might get you 45 minutes. Be sure to break up your play time with snacks. Keep the distraction level on high, and your child might even fall asleep towards the end of your flight like mine did, if you are lucky.
Identification and Medical History: It is always important to carry identification and medical history for all those who travel. If you or your child should become ill while on your trip, this information could help medical personal to provide faster and better treatment. If you plan to travel internationally you must bring documentation to prove you are the parent/guardian of your child such as a Passport and birth certificate.
First Aid kit: I have found some items very useful to keep our medical supplies organized and manageable. In my travel first aid kit, I keep a medical bag which organizes medications and basic first aid items. Be sure to check with your airline regarding oxygen tank regulations. Depending on your child's special needs, you will want to stock your travel first aid kit with additional specific items and pack some of the same items in your check-in luggage.
Change of Clothes: Accidents happen, so it's nice to have a fresh set of clothing to change into. I carry a few extra items along with a change of clothes including wet wipes, a wash cloth, small towel, and even a travel vomit clean-up kit. It's very nice to be prepared.
Finally, and most importantly, have a positive attitude. Put a smile on your face and watch how it will spread to those around you. I encourage you to get out there and see the world with your children. Traveling with special needs may require more planning and preparation, but it's worth the effort. There are no words to describe the joy and excitement of sharing the world with your child.
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