The Neurodivergent Cruise Guide Series Navigator

Part 1: Mindset | Part 2: Planning | Part 3: Panama Canal | Part 4: Sanctuaries | Part 5: Checklist

Packing Checklist

Now that we've discussed the "Slow Travel" mindset and strategies for mapping your quiet strategies for mapping your quiet sanctuary, here is the quick reference checklist I use for every sailing to manage my sensory capacity.

Save this checklist before the next sailing to reference while you pack.

• Noise-reducing headphones or earplugs

  • These can be over-the-ear headphones for littles or earbuds like Loop earplugs or Apple AirPods, and I use the background sounds setting for added white noise.

• Fidget and stim toys that are small, fairly quiet, easy to hold, and tuck into a bag.

  • Having a variety of different options is a good idea, like something squishy, poppy, clicking, spinny or twirly, textured.

  • It may be a good idea to have a small bag to tuck them in when not in use.

• Sunglasses or a baseball cap, if you are light sensitive.

• Safe snacks; especially if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.

  • For Disney cruises, ensure they are in factory-sealed packaging.

• White noise app or small portable sound machine

• Phone or tablet and spare corded headphones

  • Remember to download entertainment you can access while in airplane mode if you are not purchasing an internet package.

• Lotion and ChapStick; they do have lotion available in the staterooms

  • Having a safe option for these if you have allergies or have scent sensitivities helps.

• Wet wipes and/or hand sanitiser

  • The ships are kept clean, but sometimes I just want a little extra assurance of cleanliness.

Download PDF of Neurodivergent Travel Checklist.

Conclusion

Traveling at a slower pace doesn’t mean you are missing out. I have found that listening to my own needs and balancing the must-do activities with needed rest actually helps me enjoy the experience. The cruise line’s schedule won’t always match up with what each day brings on vacation, but you can look for magical moments that make the cruise worthwhile without overtaxing your capacity.

Needing a break from the crowd and finding sanctuary in quieter parts of the ship doesn’t make the cruise less enjoyable. There can be a balance found between lines of meeting with characters, quiet moments of playing games in the O’Gills pub, or even relaxing in your room and enjoying the ocean view from your stateroom balcony. With cruise travel, yes, you are all on the ship together going to beautiful ports, and there is so much to do, but it is up to you to decide what will make your cruise special for you and your family.

Let's chat in the comments below:

• Do you have a favorite cruise ship ‘sanctuary?’

• What strategies do you use to manage sensory overload while traveling at sea?

If you are ready to plan your own sensory-friendly adventure, let’s work together to plan a cruise that works with your pace and neurodivergent needs. I will help you evaluate priorities and navigate the different ships in the fleet to find the ship and itinerary that will make your vacation special. Visit our Plan Your Trip page to start charting your magic getaway today!

Coming Up Next: A Different View of the Panama Canal

The Neurodivergent Cruise Guide Series Navigator

Part 1: Mindset | Part 2: Planning | Part 3: Panama Canal | Part 4: Sanctuaries | Part 5: Checklist