Booking.com, as part of its ongoing mission to make travel easier for all, has released new research highlighting the travel challenges faced by Indian neurodivergent travellers and the innovative solutions they seek for a more inclusive and stress-free journey.

The study, launched during Neurodiversity Celebration Week, reveals that while 79% of neurodivergent Indian travellers feel that current support meets their basic needs, 68% still experience difficulties, calling attention to the need for better industry-wide support, clearer communication, and a more thoughtful approach to inclusivity.

The report sheds light on essential areas where travellers are seeking change:

Travel rehearsals: A significant 74% of neurodivergent Indian travellers want access to ‘travel rehearsals’ — simulated scenarios that help them prepare for their journey beforehand. This could prompt airlines to introduce advance check-in, boarding walkthroughs, and familiarisation experiences. Attractions could also benefit by disclosing sensory-intense areas like strobe-lit zones prior to visits.

Sensory-friendly spaces: More than three-quarters (77%) are asking for sensory rooms where they can regulate their environment, while 74% would like more designated quiet spaces in locations like airports and hotels. In addition, 75% would like hotels and airlines to offer ‘block out noise’ amenities such as noise-canceling headphones or white noise machines as part of their standard offerings.

More inclusive design: The research also points to a demand for more inclusive accommodation options, with 76% requesting advance floor plans and contact-free check-ins. Meanwhile, 75% are looking for airlines to enhance cabin layouts to improve physical comfort and personal space.

On an industry level, 77% of respondents emphasise the importance of specialised training for travel professionals to better understand and meet neurodivergent needs.

AI-driven navigation tools: The research highlights optimism about technology’s role in reshaping the travel landscape. Almost four in five (79%) believe AI-powered tools could help reduce travel-related anxiety by providing real-time updates, navigating delays, and pointing them toward quieter, less stimulating areas within busy airports or hotels. This demand for personalised, tech-enabled solutions could help bridge accessibility gaps on a larger scale.

Commenting on the findings, Santosh Kumar, Country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia at Booking.com, said, “Every traveller’s experience is unique and our findings reveal numerous opportunities to better understand the challenges neurodivergent travellers face. At Booking.com, we believe that travel should be a positive experience for everyone. While hotels and airports are working towards adapting to neurodivergent needs, by sharing these insights, we hope to inspire industry-wide collaboration, creativity and innovation, ultimately building a travel environment that's more inclusive and welcoming for all.”

Through collaborative efforts and tech-enabled solutions, the travel industry is poised to deliver a more seamless, accessible, and meaningful experience for neurodivergent travellers across India.