Is anyone here hypersensitive? Cause I am and I’m worried about how stimulating an airport may be, and I’m supposed to travel alone in a couple weeks. I have the option to travel with my mom but that means an extra ticket and more money.
I don’t know if I should take the option to travel with her or spare the expense.
Here's my experience with airports-
Shuttles: the tiny buses you take to your terminal. It's hard to figure out which shuttle goes where, but if you're an unaccompanied minor you have an advantage- every worker is required to watch out for you and make sure you get to where you're going. If you're taking a shuttle to your terminal, just ask the bus driver dude to confirm they're taking you where you need to go. They're usually chatty guys anyway. Depending on the time of day, they could be full and sweaty or empty and cool. Noise wise it's pretty quite, people whisper. Usually no weird lights, but sometimes TVs.
Terminal: This is where things speed up a bit. You might not take a shuttle at all, maybe someone's dropping you off right at your terminal. You'll hear a lot of luggage rolling around, voices get a bit louder, and people are both rushing and shuffling everywhere. You probably don't have to stop at the baggage thingy, if you only have carry-ons. From there, follow the signs to TSA check. There're usually people going there anyway, so follow the crowd. Your fam can follow you up to security, so you might not be alone yet.
Security: this is my least favorite part. TSA peeps are shouty and their instructions can be confusing. There's a lot of beeping and rolling, but not a ton of light issues. The agents will probably be patient with you since you're traveling alone. Just make sure you have your ticket either pulled up on your phone or in your hand ready. It's a lot, but it goes by fast. You'll get your bags from the buckets and put on your shoes, and at this point you're basically free.
Duty free and gates: beyond security, it's generally quiet. People spread out to find their gates. Baggage rolls around, ads and announcements might play, but other than that not much noise. Light wise is all good. Next is time to find your gate. There are signs everywhere to point where to go, but don't follow the crowd. Find your own way or ask a worker. As you make your way to your gate, take note of the duty free shops and restaurants AND BATHROOMS. You might wanna go back once you've got the place mapped out a bit. Avoid big food courts. If you're hungry, it might be better to buy prepared stuff from duty free rather than go to a restaurant. They can be stressful. Don't leave your bags at the gate, and be back in time for your flight. Make time for bathroom breaks. If you get there early, you might have time to read or watch a movie at your gate. I recommend getting there early to adjust to being alone and stuff so the plane isn't bad.
Boarding: sitting at your gate, eventually they'll call boarding classes. This is the part where everyone stands up even when it's not their turn. Just wait for your class sitting down. They'll call you on, scan your ticket, and you go down a really cold hallway and onto the plane. It's cramped, but not warm. The lights might be confusing, sometimes they're on sometimes not. People will probably press up against and over you to put away luggage once you get to your seat.
Taking off: it's loud and makes your stomach jump, but just remind yourself you're safe and it can be fun. It's like a really dulled down roller coaster.
Landing: They'll land and tell you theyve landed, but don't get up for a while. It's a trick. They take forever to let you off. After you get off, follow the crowd up and signs for the way out. Text whoever's picking you up to help navigate.
Overall, security and being alone is what may cause you trouble. If you're prone to stim related breakdowns, bring something to ground you. A book or toy. Airports are extremely safe and the staff are helpful. Take basic safety precautions. Have a plan once you land- who's picking you up, what time will it be, etc.
This has been Owen's Guide to Airports, hopefully this helps you decide whether or not to go it alone or bring your mom :)