Travel
Airport & Air Travel
Helpful tools, programs, and travel tips to make getting there (and back!) a little easier for neurodivergent individuals and families.
TSA Cares
• Assistance for travelers with disabilities
• Request a Passenger Support Specialist to help walk your family through the TSA security
• Request assistance at least 72 hours before departure
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
• Discreet sunflower lanyard signals a non-visible disability
• Helps airport staff recognize travelers who may need extra time or support
• Available at almost any airport in the world, including Albany Int’l
DPNA Code
• Helps airlines prepare to support travelers with intellectual or developmental disabilities
• Can alert airline staff to potential communication, sensory, or assistance needs before travel
• Call your airline to request that the DPNA code be added to your reservation
• Free to request; does not automatically guarantee specific accommodations
This section highlights destinations, experiences, and travel services that offer thoughtful accommodations and support for neurodivergent travelers.
Albany Airport Sensory Room
• Quiet, calming sensory room at Albany Int’l
• Located on the first floor of Concourse B, next to the Adirondack Imaginarium play area
• Available for travelers needing a sensory break before or after a flight
Preboarding
• Gives travelers with disabilities extra time to board and get settled before the crowds
• Can make boarding less overwhelming by allowing time to find seats, organize belongings, and adjust to the environment
• Some airlines allow advance requests; others arrange preboarding at the gate
• Check your airline's process before traveling and confirm with the gate agent
Beyond the Airport
• Adaptive personal training for individuals with autism and special needs
• Certified autism exercise specialists
Legoland
• Legoland locations are Certified Autism Center’s (CAC) through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES)
• Offers an Assisted Access Pass to help guests with autism and other physical or cognitive disabilities avoid traditional standby lines
• Designated quiet spaces and other accessibility accommodations
KultureCity
Beaches Resorts
• The first hospitality company globally to hold the higher-tier Advanced Certified Autism Center™ (ACAC) designation
• Offers autism-focused staff training, sensory-friendly activities, and personalized support for families
• Kids Camp includes accommodations for children with different support needs
• Every October, Turks & Caicos offers their annual Autism Inclusion Week - a celebration of family, fun, and inclusivity
Turks & Caicos, Jamaica Negril
Wings for Autism/Wings for All
• Air travel practice program from The Arc for individuals with disabilities
• Experience check-in, TSA security, and boarding without flying
• Events offered at participating airports; advance registration required
Disney
Autism on the Seas
• Travel organization that helps autistic individuals and families with disabilities enjoy cruise vacations
• Offers select cruises with trained support staff who accompany families onboard
• Provides assisted activities, respite sessions, and accommodations for dining and entertainment
• Also offers free cruise assistance services for families who prefer to travel independently when booking through them
Legoland
• Adaptive personal training for individuals with autism and special needs
• Certified autism exercise specialists
• Adaptive personal training for individuals with autism and special needs
• Certified autism exercise specialists