Living with ADHD can make it hard to plan things, but that doesn’t mean you have to skimp on fun, especially when it comes to vacations. I’ve rounded up some helpful tips on how to pull off a fun vacation that will work with, not against, your ADHD.

Make Planning as Easy as Possible

ADHD makes it hard to focus on a single task, which makes trip planning overwhelming. Don’t make it harder on yourself than it needs to be.

Start by choosing destinations that naturally cater to your interests, reducing the need for excessive scheduling. Direct flights, all-inclusive packages, and destinations with plenty of activities on-site or nearby can minimize travel stress and decision fatigue.

Additionally, consider using planning apps or a dedicated vacation planner to keep all your information in one accessible place.

Finally, set aside specific times for planning sessions, breaking down the process into manageable tasks to prevent overwhelming yourself. And remember that you’re not trying to script every moment. All you’re doing is creating a flexible framework that allows you to enjoy your vacation to the fullest.

Limit Your Distractions

I certainly know what it’s like to get pulled away from the moment by a million little things grabbing my attention. While you can’t prevent this completely, you can limit the distractions that are within your control.

While you’re out exploring, turn off unnecessary notifications on your phone and consider using a map instead of a constantly buzzing GPS app. There’s so much value in completely unplugging on your vacation, and you can help yourself get there by controlling your environment.

Build in Downtime

Don’t forget to schedule some downtime. Everyone needs a break, especially if you’re someone with ADHD exploring new places. There are so many stimuli that you need time to recharge, whether that means reading a book, taking a nap, or just enjoying a quiet moment. Downtime is essential to prevent sensory overload and ensure you have the energy to enjoy your entire vacation.

Create a Flexible Itinerary

Lastly, keep your plans flexible. While it’s important to have a plan, being too rigid can lead to frustration if things don’t go exactly as you anticipated. Permit yourself to explore spontaneously. Sometimes, the best memories come from unexpected adventures.

Wrapping Up

I hope these tips will help you pull off a fun vacation with ADHD. Even though it might seem overwhelming, you can do it! All you need to do is make the process easy on yourself, be flexible, and remember to unplug and relax.