Travelling solo is often seen as a daunting challenge for neurodivergent individuals. Common misconceptions suggest they can't handle the responsibility of self-care, navigating new environments, or managing unexpected situations. However, with the right preparation and mindset, solo travel can be not only achievable but also empowering.

This is where the road trips come to mind - setting your schedule (or being a little spontaneous), choosing your route, the comfort of your own space and taking breaks when needed. Solo road trips for ADHD and autists can be not only an easy but fun and beneficial experience.

You can choose your music, and the level of sound; find the right light settings, and overall, create an environment in which you feel the most comfortable. It might include your favourite textures and items you can bring with you. While you might be confined to the weight limits in certain types of travel, road trips allow you to be more flexible and pack everything you might need.

For neurodivergents, solo adventures like road trips, car camping, and hiking offer incredible opportunities for personal growth, relaxation, and even overcoming challenges in your way. In this guide, we’ll explore how to make your solo travel experiences both comfortable and fulfilling.

Why Solo Travel is Empowering for Neurodivergents

Solo travel can be empowering for neurodivergent people. Nature trips in particular might help with sensory needs. Neurodivergents can also travel on adventure and end themselves in breathtaking locations, as shown on YouTube and Instagram. Nature trips, in particular, can help meet sensory needs. Many neurodivergent travellers enjoy escaping crowded spaces, where sensory overload and triggers are minimized. Activities like Shinrin-yoku, or Forest Bathing, are known to promote relaxation and mental clarity.

Overlanding, a form of self-reliant travel where you drive to remote areas, was designed with flexibility in mind and can be especially rewarding for individuals with autism. It’s about learning to navigate diverse terrain, plan effectively, and manage your vehicle in different conditions. The independence gained from overlanding is incredibly empowering.

Autism benefits from travel because it exposes them to a range of challenges and removes them from familiar environments.

Solo road trips will provide excitement and thrills for those with ADHD. New places and experiences might give a boost in energy and peace of mind. ADHD and adventure go hand in hand by boosting dopamine levels.

The greatest advantage of solo travel for neurodivergent individuals is the ability to fully customize each trip—whether that means choosing a direct route or adding detours for rest stops, ensuring the journey is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

How to Prepare for Your First Solo Road Trip

The key to building up courage in travelling solo and having a good time is correct preparing for a solo trip. Let’s break down the tips of successful planning for neurodivergent adventure travel.

Plan at Your Own Pace

Nobody knows you better than you, and road trips allow you to choose your own pace. For people with autism, planning a road trip will help them take charge and establish structure. Solo road trips for ADHD travelers, on the other hand, may need to be broken down into smaller segments in order to keep focus and avoid overwhelm.

Consider whatever excites you the most: exploring natural wonders in National Parks, learning new things at museums, experiencing the culture and history of a new region, or simply relaxing in the tranquil outdoors.

One advice I've learned from experience is that no matter how well you plan, things will never go exactly as expected. Always allow for flexibility and adjustment. It may be unsettling for neurodivergent travelers, but road trips teach the value of flexibility and backup plans.

Sensory-Friendly Road Trip Essentials

Consider your sensory needs while planning a road trip. Traveling by car allows you to bring everything you need without worrying about weight. You can bring a weighted blanket, which will sometimes weigh as much as the airline's carry-on weight restriction, or add unnecessary weight when backpacking. Have noise-canceling earphones and a light-blocking eye cover. Check that there are no unwelcome smells in your car. If you have difficulties unwinding think about bringing soothing tunes or podcasts. Consider what familiar items can provide comfort and stability during the trip.

Essential Gear for Solo Road Trips

The list of essential road trip gear for neurodivergents is the same as for any other traveler.

Make sure you have a good GPS or map, a first-aid kit, and plenty of food and water to keep you going. If you intend to sleep in your vehicle, consider a car camping setup, which includes a comfortable mattress or sleeping bag, a portable stove, and cooking supplies.

Tips for Car Camping

We've already discussed solo road trips, why they're good for neurodiversity, and how autistic and ADHD people might enjoy travelling alone. We can now talk about tips for neurodivergent car camping.

I've said it before, but traveling and camping in a vehicle has several advantages over traditional camping. When it comes to gear, there is no need to make any compromises. That doesn't mean you have to go all out and buy all of the camping gear available. On the contrary, you just need a few essentials to begin enjoying vehicle camping.

The most basic piece of equipment is your bed configuration, which I strongly advise you to try at home or near to home first to see whether you are comfortable, sleep well, and feel well the next day. You will also require cooking tools, such as a gas/propane camping stove, cooking utensils, and ingredients to prepare easy and delicious meals at the campsite. A excellent alternative is to try food kits designed for solo journeys that simply require hot water to prepare. Make sure you have enough water; it's better to have too much than too little.

Car camping is an excellent alternative to traditional camping for neurodivergent travelers. It provides flexibility, comfort, and control over the surroundings.

Setting up a Neurodivergent-Friendly Campsite:

Create a customized campsite by selecting areas that fit your sensory and comfort requirements. If you require silence, seek out isolated or less busy campgrounds. If you're afraid of the dark, a camping lantern or string lights can provide a calming, safe environment. Always have a backup plan in case something unexpected happens, and notify someone of your intended route for safety.

ADHD and autistic car campers can bring the majority of their hobbies with them. Mine are constantly with me. Don't stress about how to spend your time at the campsite; you'll figure it out once you're there. In reality, I would spend a lot of time simply being present and enjoying my surroundings.

Overlanding and Hiking for Neurodivergent Travelers

If you're seeking for long-term travel, consider hiking and overlanding. These activities allow neurodivergent travelers to disconnect from the challenges of daily life and reconnect with nature.

Hiking Tips for ADHD and Autism:

Hiking is a great solo activity, especially when you can select trails that suit your energy level and sensory preferences. A varied trail with multiple stops might seem more exciting to someone with ADHD while hiking alone. For those with autism, picking less-known paths will give them peaceful surroundings.

One crucial hiking recommendation for neurodivergent people is to bring enough water and snacks to keep them nourished along the route. Learn about the trail's terrain, check the weather forecast for that day, and dress appropriately for the conditions.

Conclusion: Embrace the Journey

Plan your neurodivergent adventure trip without overthinking it, and don't be afraid to hit the road as soon as you're ready. Your first trip can always begin at the nearby campsite or hiking trail, where you can test your gear and gain the confidence to travel further. Overlanding on back roads, camping under the stars, or hiking in the most charming locations can be transformative experiences for ADHD and autistic travelers. The adventure awaits!

Solo Adventures for Neurodivergent Travelers: A Guide to Road Trips, Camping, and Hiking