Memory Digest

Travel Tips

Many people with dementia can still enjoy travel with good planning; practical tips for choosing trips, flying, staying safe, and handling hotels and unfamiliar places.

Last reviewed: October 2026

A diagnosis of dementia doesn't have to end travel. Visiting family, going to a wedding or taking a favorite vacation can bring real joy. As the condition progresses, though, new places, crowds and changes in routine can cause confusion and stress. Good planning makes the difference.

Is this trip a good idea?

The Alzheimer's Association suggests thinking about the person's stage and needs. Questions to ask:

• How does the person handle changes in routine and busy places?
• Do they get anxious, agitated or confused in new settings? Is there wandering?
• Are there health problems, such as incontinence or mobility issues, that make travel hard?
• Would a shorter, simpler trip work better?

In the early stage, many people travel well. In middle and later stages, travel often becomes harder, and familiar, short trips are usually best. If in doubt, ask the doctor.

Planning the trip

• Keep it simple. Fewer stops, direct flights, and familiar destinations.
• Travel at the best time of day, often the morning. Avoid traveling late in the day if Sundowning is a problem.
• Build in rest days and quiet time.
• Bring a companion. People with dementia beyond the very early stage shouldn't travel alone.
• Keep the routine as much as possible: meals, medicines and bedtime at the usual times (see Daily Care and Routines).
• Prepare the person, but not too far ahead if it causes worry. A day or two before may be enough.

What to pack

• Medicines in their original containers, in a carry-on, plus extra days' worth.
• A list of medicines, doctors, allergies and diagnoses, and copies of important documents such as ID, insurance cards, and power of attorney.
• Emergency contacts and the itinerary, with copies for family at home.
• Comfort items: a favorite blanket, photos, music and headphones, snacks.
• A change of clothes and incontinence supplies, if needed.
• Recent photo of the person, in case they get separated.

Identification and getting lost

New places raise the risk of getting lost. Before you go:

• Make sure the person wears an ID bracelet or carries ID with your phone number. The Alzheimer's Association describes MedicAlert with 24/7 Wandering Support, which offers a medical ID and a hotline to help reunite people who wander with family.
• Consider a GPS tracker or phone location sharing (see Technology for Independence).
• Dress the person in bright, memorable clothing in crowded places.

See Wandering.

Flying

• TSA Cares offers help for travelers with disabilities and medical conditions. You can call the helpline at least 72 hours before your flight to ask questions about screening or request a passenger support specialist at the checkpoint.
• Tell the airline about the person's needs when you book. Ask for wheelchair help, early boarding, or seats near the restroom.
• Airports are stressful: crowds, noise, announcements and security. Allow extra time, and find a quiet area to wait.
• Many airports have sunflower lanyard programs that discreetly let staff know a traveler has a hidden disability.
• Never leave the person alone, even briefly. If you need the restroom, use a family restroom together.
• Bring snacks, water and activities for delays.

Car, train and bus

• Plan frequent breaks for the restroom, stretching and snacks.
• Engage childproof locks in the car if the person might open a door while moving.
• Avoid driving at night or in heavy traffic when possible.

At the hotel or someone's home

• Tell the hotel or hosts about the person's needs ahead of time.
• Request a quiet room away from elevators.
• Bring a night light and familiar items to make the room feel safer.
• Consider a door alarm, a portable door chime, or ask about room options that reduce the risk of wandering at night.
• Keep things calm. Family gatherings can be overwhelming. Plan quiet breaks in a separate room.

If something goes wrong

• If the person becomes upset, stay calm, move to a quieter spot and reassure them.
• If they get lost, contact security or police right away, and call MedicAlert if enrolled.
• Know where the nearest hospital or urgent care is at your destination.

When travel no longer works

At some point, travel may cause more distress than joy. That's OK. Bring the world to the person instead: family visits, video calls, photo albums, or a local outing to a park or favorite restaurant (see Staying Active and Engaged).

This article is for general information and is not a substitute for advice from your own doctor.

Sources

1. Alzheimer's Association: Traveling
2. Transportation Security Administration: Passenger Support (TSA Cares)
3. Alzheimer's Association: MedicAlert with 24/7 Wandering Support

Not medical advice. This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual. Talk with a doctor about your situation.

Related articles

• Living Well with Dementia
• Wandering
• Staying Active and Engaged
• Daily Care and Routines
• Technology for Independence