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A disability expert shares empowering advice with families whose travel needs are extra special.

Most parents will tell you that successful family traveling takes planning. Traveling with a special needs child takes even more preparation, but is sure to create wonderful families memories for everyone. Here are some tips to help make your adventure a true success.

1. Be Brave!
Many families with special needs kids are just plain scared of trips away from home. The thought of trying to do sensitive medical procedures "on the road" or deal with behavioral outbursts in front of a family crowd is simply too overwhelming to contemplate. Unless your doctor or specialist has specifically ruled out travel, don't let your fears take over! Everyone needs to get away once in awhile and a little planning and preparation can put many of your fears to rest.

2. Planning is Everything!
Map out your trip and select destinations and rest stops that can accommodate your child's needs. If you are planning a trip by car this will mean checking accessibility at your final destination as well as any places you'll be stopping or staying en route.

In addition to getting in the door safely, you'll also want to consider what items you'll need for bedtime, bathtime and mealtimes. By calling ahead you can bring along anything that your destinations don't have. If any seem totally unable to meet your needs, don't be shy about asking for other recommendations in the area. Maybe the knowledge that they lost a potential customer will inspire them to improve their accessibility.

3. Consult with Your Child's Physician.
Ask for recommendations, tips, and a special "travel pack" with items you may need in case of an emergency. Your travel pack might include:

• A list of any prescription drugs your child is taking and a copy of each prescription.
• A physician's description letter of your child's condition and needs in case of an emergency.
• Phone numbers, e-mail addresses, and/or pager numbers of your home physicians/specialists.
• Recommendations for physicians and specialists in the area you're visiting.
• Health insurance cards and phone numbers (be sure you've reviewed your insurance policy before you leave because many require prior approval before out of town emergency room or doctor's visits).
• Phone numbers of any necessary medical supply company.

4. Pack Extras.
Bring more than you need of the special items your child requires. Remember: "Better safe than sorry." Well it goes double when you're traveling. Don't set yourself up for problems by running out of a critical item. Plus, with a few extras on hand, you won't be rattled when a well-meaning family member accidentally drops or spills precious medicine!