Traveling with kids during the holidays is a lot like starring in your own reality TV show. It can be equal parts chaos, comedy, and unexpected plot twists. Whether you’re going over the river and through the woods to Grandma’s house or braving a cross-country flight armed with snacks, tablets, and an unreasonable amount of optimism, one thing is certain: the journey will be memorable. 

Between bathroom breaks at the worst possible moments, lost stuffed animals, and someone inevitably asking, “Are we there yet?” before you even leave the driveway, holiday travel with kiddos is its own special adventure. And if you’ve ever tried to buckle a toddler into a car seat while wearing a winter coat, congratulations—you’ve earned a badge in extreme parenting.

Here are some helpful tips from our Therapy Smarts mom squad to make your holiday travels smoother for your child and family:

1. Plan Ahead for Success

Start your travel prep early! Create a visual schedule or social story to help your child understand what to expect—from packing and airport security to boarding and landing. Knowing what’s coming next can reduce anxiety and make the experience feel predictable.

Tip: Watch short YouTube videos about airport or airplane experiences together so your child can visualize what it will look and sound like.

2. Pack a Sensory Travel Kit

Long flights and busy airports can be overwhelming. Pack a small sensory kit with your child’s favorite calming tools, such as:

• Noise-canceling headphones or soft earplugs

• Sunglasses or a hat to reduce bright lights

• Fidget toys or stress balls

• A cozy blanket or stuffed animal

• Snacks with familiar textures and flavors

Bonus: Bring a tablet loaded with your child’s favorite shows, audiobooks, or calming music.

3. Be Strategic About Snacks and Drinks

Airport food options can be unpredictable (Reminder: Chick-Fil-A is closed on Sunday’s).  Pack plenty of your child’s preferred snacks, especially if they have dietary preferences or sensory sensitivities around textures. Choose items that are easy to open, not messy, and comforting.

Tip: Encourage hydration before and during the flight, but bring a spill-proof water bottle to avoid accidents during turbulence.

4. Choose Seats Wisely

If possible, select seats near the front of the plane (less engine noise) or close to the restroom for convenience. Some families prefer window seats to minimize distractions; others like aisle seats for easy access during sensory breaks (choose what works best for your child).

 5. Prepare for Transitions

The excitement and unpredictability of travel can be tough for children with sensory sensitivities. Practice transitions before your trip (Example:  taking off shoes for security or waiting in line. 

We suggest using countdowns or timers to help your child anticipate changes during the trip.) Our PR& Marketing Manager, Tildsley Clifford McManus shared, “I grew up in the 90’s driving back and forth from North Carolina to Mississippi with my parents and sister. My mom got really creative one year during the 13 hour drive and each state line (if we had been good during that stretch of the drive) we got a new beanie baby. It is a memory I will never forget- crossing the Alabama line into Mississippi and getting the turkey beanie baby.” 

6. Communicate with Your Therapy Team

If your family will be out of town during the holidays, please let our office know as early as possible so we can help you reschedule sessions or provide at-home activity ideas to keep your child’s skills progressing. Maintaining consistency in therapy routines before and after your trip can help your child adjust smoothly back to daily life.