Flying with a Hidden Disability: How to Support Your Child on a short-haul flight
Taking your child with a hidden disability on a flight—especially for the first time—can feel daunting. But with the right preparation and mindset, air travel can become an empowering and even enjoyable experience for your family.
As a sleep and sensory-informed coach who supports neurodiverse and sensitive children, I’m soon flying with my own children and want to share what worked for us—and what might help you too.
1. Choose Flight Times That Match Your Child’s Natural Rhythm
One of the most helpful decisions we made was flying early in the morning. Many children (including mine) cope far better with early wake-ups than late nights. Morning flights often mean:
• Fewer delays
• Calmer airport environments
• Less sensory overwhelm from fatigue
Think about when your child is at their calmest and most regulated—and plan around that. Avoiding late-night flights or peak travel periods can make a world of difference.
2. Book Accessibility Support with Your Airline
Many families don’t realise that accessibility support is available even if your child has an invisible disability (like autism, ADHD, anxiety, or sensory processing needs). It’s worth contacting your airline in advance to request accommodations such as:
• Priority check-in and reduced waiting times in queues
• Permission for extra bags to carry essential items or medical equipment
• Pre-boarding or last boarding, depending on what your child prefers
• Seat selection for quieter areas or proximity to toilets
• Assistance through the airport from trained staff
This service is free and can make the experience calmer for the whole family. Look on the airline’s website under their Special Assistance section or give them a call.
3. Watch Walkthrough Videos Before You Travel
If this is your child’s first time flying, it’s helpful to give them a visual roadmap of what to expect.
We found the Birmingham Airport walkthrough videos on YouTube incredibly useful. These videos show each step—from entering the airport to security to boarding—and can really help reduce anxiety by making the unfamiliar feel familiar.
Try searching:
👉 “Birmingham Airport Autism Friendly Guide”
Many other airports have similar resources or downloadable visual guides. You can even make your own airport social story using photos and simple language.
4. Pack Essentials for a Calmer Airport Experience
Think about how your child regulates themselves—what calms them when they feel overstimulated, bored, or anxious. Here are a few ideas to pack for the airport:
• 🎧 Ear defenders or ear plugs to reduce noise
• 🧢 Cap, sunglasses, or tinted glasses to help with light sensitivity
• 📍 Find a quiet space once through security (some airports have sensory rooms)
• 🛋 Airport lounge: This can offer calmer seating and snacks, though it may not always be cost-effective for larger families
Remember, your child doesn’t need to “fit into” the airport—they need support to co-regulate with you.
5. What to Pack for the Flight (Based on Sensory & Emotional Needs)
Every child is different, but here’s a tried-and-tested list of items to consider taking on board:
Sensory & Comfort
• Weighted vest, lap pad, or wobble cushion
• Fidget toys, chewies, or calming tactile items
• Comforters or soft toys
• A hoodie or jumper to keep warm
• Spare socks and underwear for reassurance or accidents
Engagement & Distraction
• Tablet with pre-loaded movies, shows or audiobooks
• Yoto Mini or Audible for screen-free listening
• A new book, puzzle, or small toy to spark interest
• Visual timer app to help show how long is left
Snacks & Hydration
• Reusable water bottle with a straw or sports lid
• Crunchy, chewy snacks (no sugar if possible) to support regulation
• Try to take food with you, aeroplane food isn’t always great
Tech & Tools
• Chargers, headphones, and a battery pack
• Zones of Regulation travel chart (on paper or app)
Having everything in a dedicated sensory or regulation backpack can help you and your child feel more in control and prepared. Just make sure you have requested an extra bag via assistance in advance. Some airlines require the dimensions of the bag 48 hours before arriving at the airport.
Final Thoughts: You Know Your Child Best
Travel isn’t always easy, and that’s okay. But with thoughtful planning and tools that honour your child’s needs, airports and aeroplanes can become more accessible places—not just physically, but emotionally and neurologically.
Take it one step at a time, stay flexible, and remember: you are your child’s best advocate and co-regulator.
Need Sleep Support?
I offer sensory-informed sleep coaching for families of neurodiverse and sensitive children. Whether you’re preparing for your first flight or navigating post-travel sleep disruption, I’m here to help.
Get in touch or explore my sleep support services [here]
