The biggest mistake most people with ADHD make when planning a vacation is starting too broad. “I want to travel somewhere” is not a useful starting point for a brain that already struggles with narrowing down options. 

Instead, start with how you want to feel. Do you want to feel restored and calm? Adventurous and energized? Connected and social? Completely alone and unbothered?

That feeling is your filter. Every decision you make after that like the destination, resort type, trip length, activities can be run through it. Does this fit the feeling I’m going for? Yes or no. It’s a much easier question for an ADHD brain to answer than “where in the world should I go?”

One of the cruelest things about the modern travel planning experience is the sheer volume of options. Hundreds of resorts. Dozens of destinations. 

Set a rule for yourself before you start researching: you will consider a maximum of three options for any given decision. Three destinations. Three resorts. Three flight choices. Pick your favorite and move on. Done.

If you’re working with a travel advisor (more on that in a minute), this is one of the most valuable things they can do for you. You get the three best choices, pre-vetted, and you just pick.

“Plan vacation” is not a task. It’s a project with seventeen sub-tasks, and putting it on your to-do list as one item is a great way to ensure it never gets done.

Break it down into the smallest possible steps, and assign each one a specific time limit. For example:

•  Day 1 — Decide on the general vibe/feeling (15 minutes, then stop)

•  Day 2 — Pick a destination region (20 minutes, then stop)

•  Day 3 — Look at 3 resort options only (30 minutes, then stop)

•  Day 4 — Decide on dates and rough budget (20 minutes, then stop)

The time limits are important. ADHD brains are notoriously bad at knowing when to stop which is how a 20-minute planning session turns into a four-hour hyperfocus spiral that ends with you knowing everything about a resort you’ve already decided not to book. Set a timer. When it goes off, close the tabs.

Packed itineraries are a recipe for ADHD misery. When every hour is accounted for, one disruption like a late checkout, a mood shift, a nap that ran long throws the whole thing off.

Plan loose. Build in buffer time between activities. Give yourself permission to skip things that no longer sound appealing once you’re actually there. The best ADHD-friendly itinerary has a handful of anchors and plenty of unstructured time around them.

Adults-only resorts are particularly good for this. The whole point is that there’s no agenda. You can do everything or nothing, and both are completely fine.

Not all resorts are created equal when it comes to ADHD-friendliness. Here’s what to look for:

•  All-inclusive properties eliminate the daily decision fatigue of where to eat, what to do, and how much things cost. Everything is already handled.

•  Adults-only environments tend to be quieter, calmer, and more predictable (less sensory overwhelm, fewer unexpected disruptions)

•  Smaller, boutique properties are often easier to navigate than sprawling mega-resorts. Fewer choices, less walking, less chance of getting overstimulated by sheer scale.

•  Properties with flexible dining let you eat when you’re hungry rather than at a set reservation time  

Travel days are hard for ADHD brains. The sensory chaos of airports, the unpredictability of delays, the mental load of tracking documents and bags and gates can be a lot. Many people arrive at their destination already depleted, which makes it hard to enjoy the first day or two.

A few things that help:

•  Build in a buffer day on either end of your trip if your budget allows. Arrive a day early, leave a day late. Don’t schedule anything on arrival day.

•  Use a packing list app or a detailed checklist you can check off as you go. The satisfaction of checking things off is genuinely helpful.

•  Have your documents in one place, already organized, before the day of travel. Don’t leave this for the morning of.

•  Give yourself permission to decompress on the first day. A slow arrival day is not wasted time.

Sometimes the most thoughtful thing you can do is say, hey, this whole day is yours. The tub, the robe, the silence. All of it.

Because she spends so much of her life taking care of everyone else. One day, all of this? That's hers.

Happy Mother's Day to all the strong and beautiful mommas out there!

Miscellaneous

These items didn't fit into any of the categories, but can come in handy, so I wanted to make sure I shared them with you. First is a good travel umbrella. No one wants to be stuck inside on vacation because you don't have an umbrella. A rain jacket wouldn't hurt either, but I'll have to make a different post for clothing recommendations. 

This one isn't always necessary, but I know it was helpful for me to have on my last trip to Belize. I had a rental car, so I was able to explore and make stops where I liked. I did stop at a waterfall, and it was handy to have my towel with me. I highly recommend getting a microfiber one as they are smaller and lighter to travel with (and dry out faster). 

Now I'm all for saving the turtles, but man I hate a paper straw. They make portable straws you can bring now, and I would highly recommend getting one if you're going on a cruise or traveling somewhere in the Caribbean. Also helpful for these type of trips are towel bands. You slip it over your chair and towel to keep your towel from blowing away. I used to us towel clips, but the bands are lighter and easier to pack. 

Why travel gets affected in a shutdown

Government shutdowns force many federal agencies to suspend non-essential operations and furlough employees whose work is not categorized as “essential.” Some essential workers must continue working, often without immediate pay, which can strain operations over time. Because many travel-related operations are at least partly federal (airport security, air traffic control, national parks), travelers are likely to see knock-on effects even though flights and services will not automatically halt.

Key areas likely to be affected:

Airports, TSA, and air travel

Flights will continue since airlines are independently funded. TSA agents are considered essential and will remain on duty, but since they’re working without immediate pay, staffing shortages could happen if employees stop showing up. That means longer lines at security checkpoints. Air traffic controllers also remain on the job, though hiring and training are put on hold, and infrastructure projects may be delayed. If staffing becomes strained, delays and cancellations may pile up. Safety inspections and certifications may also slow down.

National parks, monuments, and public lands

Many national parks and monuments are federally managed, so visitor centers, guided tours, restrooms, and some road access may close or run with minimal staff. Trails and open-air spaces might still be accessible, but with little oversight or emergency response available. A few parks may stay open with state or local support, but popular sites like the Grand Canyon are at risk of partial closure.

International travel, visa, and passport services

Passport and visa services are typically funded through application fees, so they often continue. U.S. embassies and consulates abroad also keep operating, at least for essential functions like visa issuance and emergency services. However, slower communication and administrative delays are possible.

Other modes: trains, cruises, ports

Amtrak is expected to continue operating, as are cruise lines. Customs and Border Protection officers will keep working at ports of entry, but longer wait times at borders are possible if staffing levels take a hit.

How severe the disruption will be depends on duration

In a short shutdown, many of the worst effects may be avoided. But if the shutdown drags on, staffing shortages and strained resources could create a snowball effect. In the past, long shutdowns led to TSA absenteeism, airport terminal closures, and even grounded flights when air traffic control staff shortages became critical.

Tips & advice for travelers

1. Build in extra buffer time at airports.

2. Stay flexible with flight itineraries and avoid tight layovers.

3. Sign up for airline and airport alerts to track delays or schedule changes.

4. Check the status of national parks or monuments before visiting.

5. Carry all documentation, including passports and visas, in case of processing slowdowns.

6. Expect longer wait times at customs and immigration checkpoints.

7. Have backup funds and flexible bookings in case you need to pivot plans.

8. Review your travel insurance to see what’s covered for delays or cancellations.

9. Keep an eye on the news for real-time updates as the situation develops.

Bottom line

A U.S. government shutdown doesn’t stop travel, but it does make it messier. The longer it lasts, the more disruptive it becomes, especially at airports and national parks. Travelers should stay patient, add extra time into their schedules, and prepare for possible delays.

Make Digital Backups of Everything

Take photos of your passport, ID, and credit cards before you leave. Store them securely in the cloud or email them to yourself. If your wallet or bag goes missing, you’ll have all the info you need without going full panic mode.

Secure Your Home

Grab a digital plug or an old school timer to set at least one lamp to go on and off when you're gone. Leave your outside light on as well. When your home is dark for days at a time, anyone casing the area will notice. Also, have someone grab your mail. That's another sign crazy people are looking for. 

Register with STEP

Definitely do this if you're traveling internationally. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) connects you with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in case of emergencies. Free peace of mind, and you’ll get safety alerts while abroad.

Get Travel Insurance

You never know when something can happen. Travel insurance makes those moments suck a lot less. Boring? Yes. Essential? Also yes. Insurance can cover medical emergencies, cancellations, and even lost luggage.

Use Crossbody or Anti-Theft Bags

Pickpockets love backpacks and open totes. Instead, invest in a crossbody bag with zippers or an anti-theft backpack. 

Keep Cash and Cards Separate

Never put all your money and cards in one place. Use a money belt, your hotel safe, or stash some emergency cash in a random spot (yes, even your sock works). That way, if something goes missing, you’re not stranded.

Use Hotel Business Cards

Grab a business card from your hotel’s front desk before heading out. If you get lost or your phone dies, you can hand it to a taxi driver and get home without playing charades in a foreign language.

Don’t Flaunt Your Tech

Walking around with the latest iPhone out is like waving a neon “steal me” sign. Keep gadgets out of sight unless you’re actually using them. And no, that airport charging station isn’t safe either—bring your own power bank.

Choose the Right Ride

Only use licensed taxis or rideshares you can verify in the app. Double-check the driver’s name, photo, and plate number before hopping in. And always sit in the backseat—it’s safer and gives you space if things get weird.

Secure Your Hotel Room

Travel locks, door wedges, and double-checking those flimsy hotel latches are small steps that make a big difference. Also, don’t answer the door unless you’re 100% sure it’s staff. If you didn’t order room service, don’t let it in.