16 Small Must-Have Items for Neurodivergent Travelers: Pack Like a Pro! 🛫

Here's a list of 16 helpful, practical items that make you feel more comfortable when you leave home, particularly when you travel... in particular for people with ADHD who are prone to misplacing things or people with sensory sensitivities. Being in transit is stressful enough when you are neurodivergent! Items linked below! #travelpacking #comfort
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower mentioned: hdsunflower.com/
👋 Say hello: betterndtravel.com
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:27 Loop earplugs for noise sensitivity (item 1)
00:52 Over-ear noise cancelling headphones (item 2)
01:48 Reusable water bottle (item 3)
02:21 Alternative footwear like slippers or Allbirds Loungers (item 4)
03:39 Wet wipes (item 5)
04:03 Power bank to recharge phone etc (item 6)
04:46 Clothing layers (item 7)
05:12 Snacks that are compact (item 8)
05:46 Sunflower lanyard from Hidden Disabilities (item 9)
07:26 Items to help you avoid losing (includes items 9-16)
07:46 Bluetooth tracking device (item 10)
08:05 Phone leash / strap (item 11)
08:28 Cross body bag (item 12)
08:47 Trolley sleeve on personal item (item 13)
09:43 Pockets (item 14)
10:17 Silicone strap to secure Airpods (item 15)
10:48 Airpods case with wrist strap (item 16)
*Products mentioned*
#commissionsearned
NOISE SENSITIVITY ITEMS
Loop earplugs
All except UK: amzn.to/3WaJaBU
UK: amzn.to/4eTh3OO
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds
All except UK: amzn.to/3zySWVy
UK: amzn.to/3yarJIp
My "walking where it's quiet" choice Beats Flex Wireless Earbuds
All except UK: amzn.to/3RY7eFr
UK: amzn.to/45XReZX
GENERAL COMFORT ITEMS
Smaller charger, the Anker Power Bank, Ultra-Compact 5,200mAh Portable Charger
All except UK (mine is black but this is identical otherwise): amzn.to/4cnnF6x
UK: amzn.to/4cQS78T
Slightly larger (and heavier), the Anker Powerbank 10,000 mAh, 323 Power Bank
All except UK: amzn.to/4cPnaSD
UK: amzn.to/45TKY5m
"AVOID LOSING ITEMS" ITEMS
Apple AirTag 4 pack
All except UK: amzn.to/4cwhnSc
UK: amzn.to/4daedDJ
CASETiFY Rope Cross-body Strap:
All except UK: amzn.to/3zIvoNV
UK: amzn.to/4cuc2dX
CASETiFY Snake Chain Phone Strap - Gold (you can see me wearing it as a necklace on betterndtravel.com/about-lisa )
All except UK: amzn.to/3W9HQ25
UK only: amzn.to/4by9hY0 (they don't have the gold - you can buy direct from them)
I also have an Impact MagSafe case from CASETiFY but I can't see the exact design on Amazon
All except UK: amzn.to/3VVuCF1
UK only: amzn.to/45SIHHL
TSHAOUN 4PCS Airpods Magnetic Silicone Strap
All except UK: similar option amzn.to/4eTfPDc
UK link: amzn.to/3LgHBvQ
ORNARTO Compatible with Airpods Pro 2 Case (2022), Protective Liquid Silicone Case Cover
All except UK:: amzn.to/45XS4pE
UK link: amzn.to/4eNaZaR
I earn a small commission from the Amazon links above.
ROUND MINI SHOULDER BAG: www.uniqlo.com/eu/en/product/...
The Outdoor Backpack 26L from AWAY Travel: www.awaytravel.com/en-uk/trav...

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

The items I mention are listed in the description :) Thanks for watching!

[@DallasNatureLover]

Warning: public USB charging outlets are not safe - (hackers can save programs in them.) Always take your own charger.

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Great reminder; I've heard this before too.

[@markopolo8136]

Or use a data blocking cable or adapter: methodshop.com/usb-data-blockers/ PortaPow makes the one I use. It charges fine on most public USBs I've tried, though some car ports give really low current through it.

[@melanierippon7884]

From the UK - re the sunflower lanyard, I wear mine during my work commute, at church, round shops etc. - having the lanyard does mean people will (sometimes) ask if you need help. Also useful if due to your hidden disability, you need to use disabled-accessible facilities, certain seats on public transport etc. Helps to spread awareness. And nudge people into having a bit of patience - it’s not that I can’t do stuff, I just might be slower at it than other people.

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Great to hear your experience wearing it. I'll def be wearing it more often when I'm in potentially overwhelming situations.

[@Libri_amore_e_fantasia]

I can't believe that, after watching dozens of videos on packing for travelling, this is the first one where wet wipes are mentioned. They are essential to me. I carry them with me all year round.

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

I learned the hard way. In a group tour, the only person regularly using them to wipe down her table area was the only one NOT to get sick :)

[@kevans2337]

You have a beautiful cat !!!

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Kitty is indeed gorgeous but not mine; I was housesitting. I can't promise, but highly likely my videos will have cats in them, somewhere :)

[@sharoncarey2931]

Thankyou for doing this video, I didn't know about the daisy lanyard. Very helpful.

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

You are so welcome!

[@Sweetlyfe]

Hiya from Australia, just wanted to say thanks for the information about the lanyard as I didn’t know about it. I am a late diagnosis in my mid 50’s, would have definitely been helpful to know a lot sooner, but better late than never 😅. Though I tend to get hit in the head by handbags (which is very annoying) or even worse is someone’s bum right in my face 😂, when I board a flight as mine are all nearly 9hrs + and I always pick an aisle seat around the last rows anyway, even though it’s noisier behind the wings from the engines and babies, if there are seats vacant it’s usually right in the last rows. But I always travel with noise cancelling headphones the over ear type, and ear plugs and a mask for trying to sleep, they definitely help with my noise sensitivity.

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

You are so welcome! Flying domestic in Australia was such a good experience for me compared to US and Europe :) And I noticed Sydney has a quiet room too. So you too on the late diagnosis? Better late than never, as you say :)

[@w.vangaal1077]

I immediately subscribed! I am autistic traveler mainly by train and bike. I even have studied tourism but wasnt able to finish my degree. But I still love to travel and people are always amazed I am able to. For me it comes down to a good preparation. I use a bullet journal.. schedules, reservation numbers, what to do when, ice (in case of emergency) etc. Some things that I bring: 1. I always bring a fidget toys or something to fidget with. 2. Sunglasses and/or a hat.. 3. I also bring meal replacement bars because I don't like eating out especially when overwhelmed. 4. A foldable backpack as well as a foldable cup. Another note: The sunflower lanyard works mainly in airports (I rarely fly) and is not recognized by a lot of countries or companies. For example In the netherlands it is somewhat recognized but not in Germany. Do you do bigger trips for leisure or work? How did you get into traveling?

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Wow! I am so glad you found my channel! Agree, good preparation is key, though you are much more organized than I am (I think it's my ADHD). Thanks for info on the sunflower lanyard. So it wouldn't necessarily help to wear it at an event in Germany? Right now I avoid all festivals, concerts etc because of the overwhelm. My business travel days are done now because I left my corporate job, but it was mostly things like week in NYC or Chicago (from London), and the most interesting was 10 days in India, though we had 3 locals assisting us at every step of the way, which made a massive difference. The rest of my major trips are leisure, yes. I've just always wanted to travel internationally, and made life/career choices that eventually supported that dream logistically and financially. :) P.S. I don't have a degree either.

[@w.vangaal1077]

@@BetterNeurodivergentTravel it won't be immediately recognised as something the act on like at an airport or plane. But you could use it to indicate you are autistic. I don't go to concerts, so I can't give you any advice on that. But it never hurts to try and contact the event to see if they have something in place for autistic's. I am planning my trip to the Olympics in 2 weeks time! I have already been to the hotel, used the same travel route, seen the surroundings (not the venue) and know how to cycle to the event. I know I will be overwhelmed but it will be less... So you are from the UK!? I am traveling to the UK next year in april! 🥰

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

@@w.vangaal1077 Very cool you’re going to the Olympics! Yes I have been in the UK for a very long time but recently became a full time traveller. Hope you enjoy planning your UK visit. There’s tons to see and experience. Ping me if you have questions

[@teresagilman5047]

Love this great advice from a pro! Thanks Lisa!!

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

@@teresagilman5047 You are so welcome 😁😁

[@AJK278]

Great info, and glad I found your channel. I am 59 and just got the ADHD diagnosis and going through the ASD assessment right now

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

It's such a strange feeling to learn you lived life in hard mode the entire time! Good luck with the ASD assessment. Hopefully they were able to incorporate some of your ADHD assessment notes too.

[@DonaldKhan-c3r]

Thank you so much for this wonderful and video.

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

You're welcome. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@alexismeskill5691]

❤Thank you!❤ All of your suggestions are perfect for me! I was late diagnosed, too, and all the other travel hacks just don't work for me - yours are spot on! I had no idea about the Sunflower lanyard! I'm off to get one now! I wish you much success! 🎉

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Glad to hear it! I have loads more travel hacks and ideas for folks like us. Guess I better start drafting the next video :)

[@tracypatil8841]

Loved your tips, always travel with wipes or damp flannels in a Ziplock. I travel quite a bit usually. Really need a phone lanyard, and probably some warm socks. I always get cold feet. New Subscriber❤ also I'm glad you mentioned your sunflower lanyard, helps if people are more aware and hopefully kinder. X

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Glad it was helpful! Ah yes, flannels dampened with soapy water are great. haha yes cold feet are the worst esp when you're in transit can can't move around much to warm up!

[@amandaa5249]

😔I was just diagnosed in November, so yeah, late diagnosis as well. 🤔I had no idea the sunflower 🌻 is even a symbol. Thank you for bringing this to my attention and thank you for all of these tips.❤

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Late diagnosis buddies unite! Better late than never, right? Glad you found it helpful. It seems like a lot of people aren't aware of the sunflower symbol ....

[@debojyotis]

Great video, best wishes. Subbed

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Thank you, and thanks for the sub! :)

[@kyleethekelt]

I think you could probably use the wool for summer, to. Wool is great for wicking away moisture and odours so it can help keep you cool in summer.

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Totally. I'm really keen to try more merino for those reasons. I have merino leggings and a long hoodie, good for flights, but they're not really summer attire 😄

[@bhandarivivaan]

great video, travelling from mumbai - boston for my masters education and this will be so helpful!

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Glad to hear it; It's a looooong flight! Best of luck with your masters program. Boston is a great city too!

[@missmrocks]

I love my Bose headphones. I've replaced the padding 3x ❤

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

That's a good idea! The pads were actually fine until I used one of those antibacterial wipes... i think it was too harsh.

[@DallasNatureLover]

I take a tiny plastic container of laundry sheets made for sink washing. Brand is Journey Breeze Travel Laundry Detergent Sheets.

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

yes, the detergent sheets are a game changer! I travel with them too in a ziplock.

[@LucyLovesParis]

I wear earbuds and a cabeau neck pillow on long flights. The neck pillow holds the earbuds in place and I feel like I’m in a comfy quiet place. The cabeau has a bag and you roll it up. It ends up softball sized. So easier to bring with you.

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Oh wow, I'm not familiar with that brand. Sounds good that it compacts down. too.

[@joannefisher1248]

Vapur makes a folding water bottle. Takes up so much less space when empty

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Just looked it up. FANTASTIC recommendation. They're even dishwasher safe!

[@joannefisher1248]

@@BetterNeurodivergentTravel reasonable price, too. I've had an early model since 2010. I just replaced it. This one is so much better especially with the wide mouth opening. I'm not sure why Vapur products are not advertised more. They are a great travel product.

[@intherockies]

❓Is the Sunflower lanyard known throughout the U.S.? My grandson who looks like a grown man will be flying for the first time next year. I will be with him but I am a nervous flyer and haven't flown in decades. I'm going to be as calm as possible to help him but he may be able to read my face. He has panic attacks and high anxiety so I'm wondering if a sunflower lanyard will be enough to let people know to help him, without me speaking up and making him feel self-conscious?

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

That's a great question, and I don't know for certain. It seems like the Sunflower lanyard is gaining wider recognition. I think it's likely the airport staff will be trained but it couldn't hurt to look on their website or otherwise try to find out in advance if there's a quiet room or what additional assistance is available. Unless he has the card that also shows the disability the lanyard itself will only indicate to staff to be more patient etc. Hope that helps? :) Maybe someone else who has spent more time in the US will know more too.

[@mariecurie7491]

Wet wipes... they are not liquids! Small rosewater spray

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

What do you use the rosewater spray for? Sounds nice! I have also tried making my own nail polish remover pads (so they aren't a liquid) and that didn't go so well (video coming soon) ... but these can be purchased ready-made...

[@mariecurie7491]

@@BetterNeurodivergentTravel spray my face first thing in the morning, and any time during the day to refresh. No need to drag cotton wool pads across the complexion: just close eyes and spray

[@missmaryblack1990]

Would you recommend travelling with two 10000 mAh battery rechargers, or one 20000mAh? doesn't need to be that size, but the concept of two smaller or one larger battery recharger?

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Two is good, so that you always have one charged up and ready to go (but I'm the sort of person that forgets to charge things :))

[@missmaryblack1990]

@@BetterNeurodivergentTravel oooooh, that rationale makes a lot of sense. gives me a good way to think about a lot of things. thank you!

[@claudiaross239]

Two, might lose one.

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Also an excellent point.

[@yeffblanco]

I liked subscribed & downloaded. Loud noises annoy me, too.

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Glad to hear it re: video... :)

[@samdoesstuff4924]

as an autistic minor traveling alone soon i would like to be able to have the sunflower lanyard but i'm not sure what my parents would say about it 😰

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

When I was a minor flying, I was always well looked after by airline staff. I'm not sure the lanyard would have made a difference? I don't know how it's changed since then though...

[@samdoesstuff4924]

@@BetterNeurodivergentTravel okay. i'm 17 so im like the closest to not being a minor but i also am super short and have a baby face so i'm pretty sure they will take care of me 😭

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

You can even tell airlines staff about your communication needs on the day, as well. Let me know how it goes!

[@shannonw1606]

Are the items linked?

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Thanks for the reminder - I've linked most of them now. Should have done that a week ago 😅

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

What small items do you always take when traveling?

[@konroz]

you should have a sponsorship with loop earplugs; suncream, hat, unbrella, idk; you covered most of the stuff i like to have on me.

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

@@konroz Yes, good call ... hat goes with me most everywhere!

[@grol094]

@@konroz I'm glad you mentioned the name -- I couldn't catch it in her audio track with the video. Thanks

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

@@grol094I’ll check and fix that tomorrow so that it’s appearing correctly

[@katlynalves6230]

I love to bring lots of quart-sized zip top plastic bags. I keep my travel-sized liquids for my carry on in one of these. And then I also keep other liquids in my checked luggage in these. It helps contain any messes if something spills! It's also nice for organizing other small items that you may have packed. And because it's clear, it's easy to find your things! Similar concept, but a bit larger... I love using packing cubes to organize everything within my baggage/luggage. It helps me know where everything is, because items are grouped together. And it helps keep my clothing from ending up in a huge messy pile as I'm searching for items.

[@juanitahardy8583]

A wash bag. I sleep the entire flight and no ear buds etc.

[@BetterNeurodivergentTravel]

Probably a lot more comfortable sleeping without the earbuds. The engine noise is a good whitenoise.