Free Vacations for Special Needs Families And How to Get Them

Last Updated on August 16, 2025 by John Hookway

Are you searching for free vacations for your family? You should have a fun and relaxing break. Special needs families have different challenges.

But there are programs that help you travel more easily. You will get real help, friendly staff, and fun things to do.

• Places everyone can visit
• More help for children
• Easy planning with less stress

Accessible travel is important. You can make memories without problems or stress.

Key Takeaways

• Families with special needs can find free vacation programs. These programs give fun, help, and easy travel.
• Programs like Give Kids The World Village and Autism On The Seas are safe. They have trained staff. They have activities for kids with different needs.
• Many programs need proof that you qualify. This can be a doctor’s note or a sponsor. Always check the rules before you apply.
• Plan your trip early. Pack things that make your child feel good. Tell the staff about your child’s needs. This helps the trip go well and be fun.
• Advocacy groups and online groups give helpful resources. They support families. They help families find and get ready for easy-to-access vacations.

1. Give Kids The World Village

Think of a place made for kids with serious illnesses and their families. Give Kids The World Village is in Central Florida. Families can stay for a whole week.

You get your own villa, pools, and parties every night. The Village helps about 7,000 families from around the world each year. It can have up to 196 families at one time.

Since it opened, more than 200,000 families from all 50 states and 77 countries have visited. There are friendly staff, fun things to do, and a safe place for everyone. This Free Vacations program pays for your stay, food, and tickets to Orlando’s best attractions.

Eligibility

To stay at Give Kids The World Village, your child must:

• Be 3 to 18 years old
• Have a critical illness diagnosed by a doctor
• Be sponsored by a wish-granting group or children’s hospital
• Want to visit Central Florida

The Village works with over 250 wish-granting partners. It does not give wishes itself but helps make wishes happen.

How to Apply

First, talk to a wish-granting group near you, like Make-A-Wish. They will help you with the steps and check if you qualify.

If you are approved, the group will work with Give Kids The World Village to plan your trip. You do not apply to the Village yourself.

Tips

Tip: Wear comfy clothes and bring any medicine your child needs.
Note: The Village has villas that are easy to use and offers special food choices.
Tip: Ask about activities for kids with sensory needs.
Note: Take lots of pictures—these memories are special!

2. Cherry Blossom Vacations

Cherry Blossom Vacations helps families visit Japan with wheelchair needs. You can see places like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Mount Fuji.

The program gives you hotel rooms that are easy to use. You get help with travel and friendly guides. Temples, museums, and gardens have ramps and wide paths.

Bullet trains have spots for wheelchairs. The staff gives you info packs and help in two languages. You will know what to expect on your trip. With good planning, you can enjoy cherry blossoms and Japanese culture.

Eligibility

You can join if someone in your family uses a wheelchair. The program is for people who need easy rooms and travel.

There is no age limit, so kids and adults can go. If you need ramps or special vehicles, this program is for you. Other disabilities may not be covered, so check before you sign up.

How to Apply

It is easy to apply.

1. Go to the Cherry Blossom Vacations website.
2. Fill out the form with your family’s info and needs.
3. Send any papers that show your mobility needs.
4. Wait for the team to reply. They will tell you if you have a spot and talk about your trip.

Tip: Sign up early! Spots fill up fast in cherry blossom season.

Tips

• Pack only what you need, but bring your medical supplies.
• Ask for your trip plan before you leave.
• Use the two-language help if you have questions.
• Tell the staff if you need airport rides or extra gear.
• Take lots of photos—Japan’s gardens and temples are beautiful in spring!

If you want Free Vacations that are easy for everyone, Cherry Blossom Vacations lets you travel without worry.

3. Autism On The Seas

Think about going on a cruise where your family feels safe and welcome. Autism On The Seas has cruises for families with kids or adults who have autism or other developmental disabilities.

You can swim, watch shows, and eat tasty food. Trained staff help with daily routines and special needs.

They know about sensory issues and can help with changes, meltdowns, and new things. You can relax because your family is cared for. These cruises are a safe place for everyone to make memories together.

Eligibility

You may wonder if your family can join. Here is what you should know:

• Any special needs family can apply, even if it is your first cruise.
• Staff-assisted cruises are open to people with any developmental or physical disability.
• There is no age limit, and you do not need to be potty trained.
• Extended family and friends can come too, with no limits.
• If you have already gone on an Autism On The Seas cruise, you cannot go again because space is limited.
• Families are picked in the order they sign up, so register early.

How to Apply

Want to join? Go to the Autism On The Seas website and find the application form. Fill it out with your family’s details and any special needs.

Send in your form and wait for a reply. If you get a spot, the team will help you plan your trip and give support on the ship.

Tips

Tip: Sign up early. Spots fill up fast!

Note: Bring comfort items for your child, like headphones or favorite toys.

Tip: Ask staff about quiet spaces and sensory-friendly activities.

Note: Cruises give Free Vacations to families who need extra help, so use all the support you can.

4. Believe in Tomorrow Children’s Foundation

You might want a break from hospitals and doctor visits. The Believe in Tomorrow Children’s Foundation gives you that chance.

This program offers beach and mountain retreats for families with children facing serious medical conditions. You can relax in a cozy house near the ocean or enjoy fresh air in the mountains.

Each retreat is private, so your family gets the whole place. You will find fun things to do like swimming, fishing, and crafts.

The staff makes sure you feel welcome and safe. Many families say these trips help them feel stronger and closer.

Eligibility

You can apply if your child is under 18 and has a life-threatening illness. The program accepts families from all over the United States.

Your child must be in active treatment or have finished treatment in the past year. You need a doctor’s note to show your child’s medical needs. Siblings and parents can join the trip too. The foundation wants your whole family to enjoy time together.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to get started:

1. Visit the Believe in Tomorrow website.
2. Fill out the online application form.
3. Upload your doctor’s note and any other needed documents.
4. Wait for the team to contact you about available dates.

Tip: Apply early. Retreat spots fill up fast, especially in summer.

Tips

• Pack your child’s favorite snacks and comfort items.
• Ask the staff about local activities and wheelchair access.
• Bring games or books for quiet time.
• Take lots of photos to remember your trip.
• Share your story with the foundation. They love hearing from families.

You can enjoy Free Vacations that give your family a break and new memories.

5. Merlin’s Magic Wand

Overview

Picture your child smiling at LEGOLAND or SEA LIFE Aquarium. Merlin’s Magic Wand helps families who need a break have fun.

This charity lets children with big challenges visit Merlin Entertainments attractions. You get free tickets for your family. Sometimes, they help pay for travel too.

Local partners help make each visit easy and special. Every trip is meant to be happy and not stressful. If you want Free Vacations that make good memories, this is a great choice.

Eligibility

You may wonder if your family can join. Merlin’s Magic Wand helps children with serious problems. Here is what you should know:

• Your child must be 2 to 18 years old.
• The child must have a serious or long-term illness, a registered disability, or live in a care home or foster care.
• Children who were just adopted, affected by domestic violence, or have a parent who is very sick can also join.
• Young carers and children who lost a parent or sibling can apply.
• Only groups like special schools, hospitals, charities, or community groups can apply for you. Families cannot apply by themselves.
• The group must give real contact details and may need to send doctor’s notes or letters from child services.
• Each child can only get help one time.

How to Apply

Ask your child’s school, hospital, or support group if they can help you apply. They fill out the online form on the Merlin’s Magic Wand website.

The group will share your child’s info and upload any needed papers. If your child needs help soon, tell them. The charity looks at each form and tells the group the results.

Tips

Tip: Plan your trip early, especially when school is out.

Bring snacks, comfort things, and any medicine your child needs.

Ask about wheelchair access or quiet places at the attraction.

Take lots of photos—these trips are full of smiles!

6. Beaches Resorts Autism-Friendly Vacations

Overview

Picture your family at a sunny beach. Everyone feels welcome and understood. Beaches Resorts Autism-Friendly Vacations let you relax while your child has fun.

The staff knows how to help kids with autism and sensory needs. Your vacation is safe, fun, and easy. The resort has many features to help you feel comfortable:

• Staff learn about sensory needs and social skills.
• Rooms have calming lights and soft colors.
• You get a special check-in and check-out to lower stress.
• Sensory toys and equipment are ready if you ask.
• There are quiet spaces for breaks.
• One-on-One Beaches Buddy service gives private care.
• Kids Camps have activities for all ages.
• The Resort Sensory Guide helps you plan your day.
• The Culinary Concierge Desk helps with special diets.
• You can meet Sesame Street characters, like Julia.

You can join pool parties and do arts and crafts. You might meet Julia from Sesame Street. The resort wants every family to feel included.

Eligibility

You can apply if your child has autism or other developmental needs. Kids of any age can join. You do not need a doctor’s note. Share your child’s needs when you book. Families from the United States and other countries can come.

How to Apply

Booking is easy. Go to the Beaches Resorts website. Find the autism-friendly vacation section. Fill out the booking form and answer the questions.

This helps staff get ready for your child’s needs. You can call the resort for help or special requests.

Tips

Tip: Bring your child’s favorite comfort items, like a blanket or headphones.
Note: Use the Resort Sensory Guide to pick the best activities for your child.
Tip: Ask about the Beaches Buddy service if you want extra support.
Note: Free Vacations at Beaches Resorts fill up fast, so book early for the best dates!

7. Vacation Grants for Special Needs Families

Overview

Travel can cost a lot. Some families think vacations are not possible. Vacation grants can help you go on trips. Many groups and government programs give money for travel.

These grants pay for things like hotels and fun activities. They are made for children with special needs. You can get help if your child has autism or physical disabilities. Other challenges are covered too. Grants make Free Vacations possible for families who need help.

Here are the main types of vacation grants in 2025:

• Nonprofit grants from groups like Autism Society, Care.com, The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation, and Inclusion Matters.
• Government grants, such as Medicaid Waiver Programs, Department of Disabilities, and State Family Support Programs.
• Extra help from organizations like The M.O.R.G.A.N. Project and Autism Speaks.

Vacation grants do more than pay for trips. They help your family relax and have fun together. You can make new memories and feel closer.

Eligibility

Each grant has different rules. Most programs want:

• A doctor’s note for autism or another disability.
• Proof that your family needs money.
• Age limits for your child.
• You must live in a certain state or country.

Some grants are for certain disabilities or family needs. Always read the rules before you apply.

How to Apply

Start by going to the websites of the groups listed above. Look for their grant or help page. Fill out the form and upload your papers, like a doctor’s note or proof of income.

Some programs want you to write a short story about your family or your child’s needs. After you send your form, wait for a reply with more details.

Tip: Apply early in the year. Many grants run out of money fast!

Tips

• Make a list of grants that fit your family.
• Keep copies of all your forms and papers.
• Ask your child’s doctor or school for help with forms.
• Stay positive! Many families get help after trying more than once.

Here is a quick look at common grant amounts:

Free Vacations & What to Expect

Accommodations

When you get to your vacation spot, you want to feel safe and happy. Most Free Vacations programs have special places for families with different needs. Y

ou might stay in a fun village, a nice house, or on a cruise ship with autism-friendly staff. Many spots have ramps for wheelchairs, big doors, and rooms made for sensory needs.

Some programs let you board first or give you a quiet room just for your family. Here’s what you might find:

When you book, ask if there are sensory rooms or quiet spaces. These help your child calm down after a busy day.

Activities

You want your family to have fun and try new things. Free Vacations have activities for everyone, no matter their abilities.

Here are some things you might do:

• Adaptive sports like kayaking, hiking, and cycling
• Swimming and snorkeling with special gear
• Arts and crafts, drama, and outdoor fun
• Resorts with kids clubs all day
• Sensory toys and games for children with autism
• Trips and beaches that are wheelchair friendly
• Luau dances, sailing, and social events

You can join in, watch, or just relax. There is something for everyone!

Support Services

Support makes your trip easier. Many programs have staff who know about autism, physical disabilities, and sensory needs. You might get help with daily routines, food, or medical needs.

Some places have vacation nannies or buddies just for you. You can ask for help with check-in, activities, or finding quiet spots. Staff can answer questions and help you feel welcome.

Support services are there for you. Always ask for extra help or special equipment if you need it.

Free Vacations give you more than a trip. They give comfort, fun, and support for your whole family.

Planning Your Free Vacation

Preparation

Getting ready for a trip helps things go well. Ask everyone in your family what they want to do. This makes each person feel important.

Keep your plans open. You may need to change them if your child gets tired or upset. Try these ideas to get ready:

• Talk to your child’s doctor before you travel.
• Pick places with fun for all abilities.
• Make a simple plan with time to rest.
• Tell your group about your child’s needs.
• Visit busy places when they are quiet.
• Take care of yourself by resting and eating well.

Online groups and travel agents for accessible travel can help you with advice.

Packing

Packing the right way keeps you calm. Make a list one week before you leave. Here are things families with special needs should bring:

1. Extra medicine in the right bottles.
2. Comfort items like a blanket or stuffed toy.
3. Fun things—tablets, books, or crayons.
4. Headphones for loud places.
5. Favorite snacks and special forks or spoons.
6. Safety items like trackers or ID tags.
7. First-aid kit and medical papers.
8. Extra diapers, wipes, and any mobility gear.

Download movies or games before you leave. Bring both screen and non-screen fun.

Communication

Talking with program staff makes your trip easier. Tell them about your child’s needs before you get there. Texting is quick and easy for everyone.

Many programs use texts to give updates or answer questions. You can also email or call if you want. Ask for a contact person at your vacation spot. Save their number in your phone.

• Use short, clear messages.
• Ask about quiet rooms, food needs, or special gear.
• Tell staff if your plans change or you need help.

Some programs have apps or send texts to keep you updated. See if this is an option.

Want to save more money? Try travel hacking! Use reward points, look for deals in the off-season, and join mailing lists for early Free Vacations.

Resources and Support

Helpful Links

You may want more info or help with planning. Here are some helpful links to get you started:

• Family Travel Forum – Tips and guides for accessible travel.
• AccessibleGO – Reviews and booking for accessible hotels and attractions.
• TravelAbility – News and resources about accessible travel trends.
• Wings for All – Practice airport experiences for families with special needs.
• Autism Travel – Listings of autism-friendly destinations and certified travel professionals.

You can save these sites to use later when you plan your next trip.

Advocacy Groups

You do not have to travel by yourself. Many advocacy groups work to make travel better for families like yours. Here are some important organizations you should know:

• IBCCES
  • Gives training and certificates for autism-friendly travel.
  • Runs the Certified Autism Center™ program.
  • Connects you with Certified Autism Travel Professionals.
  • Experts like Dr. Temple Grandin support their work.
  • Families say IBCCES certification makes trips easier and more comfortable.
• The Arc
  • Has helped people with disabilities for over 70 years.
  • Has more than 600 local chapters and over 1,000 programs.
  • Runs ‘Wings for All’ to help families practice air travel.
  • Offers resources, events, and support for disability rights.
  • Works to make travel better through policy and legal action.

These groups can help you find answers, meet others, and ask for better travel choices.

Community Support

You can get help from other families who understand what you go through. Try these ideas to build your network:

• Join online forums and Facebook groups for special needs travel.
• Go to local meetups or family events from advocacy groups.
• Share your travel stories and tips with others.
• Ask questions and give advice in community chats.

When you talk with others, you get new ideas and feel less alone. Your story can help someone else!

You have learned about great Free Vacations for special needs families. These programs offer help, fun, and memories you will always remember. You can ask for support and find trips that work for your family. Accessible travel is possible when you use good resources. Talk to advocacy groups and check out the links above. Begin planning your next trip now—your family should have a fun adventure!

FAQ

What if my child has multiple disabilities?

You can still apply! Most programs welcome kids with more than one disability. Just share all your child’s needs when you fill out the forms. Staff want to help your family have a great trip.

How early should I apply for these programs?

Apply as soon as you can. Spots fill up fast, especially for popular times like summer or holidays. Some programs open applications months in advance. Early planning gives you the best chance.

Can siblings join the vacation too?

Yes! Most programs invite the whole family, including brothers and sisters. Some even have special activities just for siblings. Check the program details to see what’s included.

Do I need a doctor’s note for every program?

Not always. Some programs ask for a doctor’s note or proof of diagnosis. Others just need you to share your child’s needs. Always read the rules before you apply.

What if my child needs special food or medicine?

Let the staff know before your trip. Many programs offer special meals and can store medicine safely. Bring extra supplies just in case. Staff want your child to feel safe and comfortable.