Neurodivergent creators Lauren and Tom share how the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower has helped them travel with greater confidence, from busy airports to the Galápagos Islands.
Lauren and Tom are the couple behind @neuroduo, where they share the reality of travelling the world as a neurodivergent couple.
Through their videos, they take their community of more than 50,000 Instagram followers beyond the picture-perfect destinations. Alongside the adventures, they talk openly about living with ADHD, OCD and autism and the parts of travelling that people do not always see.
For Lauren and Tom, the journey to a destination can sometimes be more challenging than the destination itself.
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The side of travelling people don’t always see
Airports can be overwhelming for many people, but busy environments can present additional challenges for neurodivergent travellers.
Crowds, noise, bright lights, queues and large amounts of information can all contribute to sensory overload. There can also be uncertainty around security procedures, boarding times and last-minute gate changes.
As Tom explains in their video:
“When you watch travel videos, you usually see the beautiful destinations. What you don’t always see is the journey it takes to get there.”
Trying to navigate unfamiliar processes while processing so much information at once can create considerable stress and anxiety. This can become even more difficult when travelling in a new country or trying to communicate across a language barrier.
A simple way to communicate without repeatedly explaining
Lauren and Tom use the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower when travelling to discreetly communicate that they have non-visible disabilities and may need additional time, patience or support.
“It gives me a simple way to signal that I have an invisible disability and may need a little extra time, patience or understanding, without having to explain myself over and over again.”
For Tom, wearing the Sunflower can make interactions with airport staff feel easier and reduce some of the anxiety associated with travelling.
It allows him to communicate that he may need support without having to repeatedly explain his disability, particularly when he is already feeling overwhelmed.
The Sunflower does not disclose someone’s diagnosis or tell staff exactly what support they require. Instead, it encourages understanding and creates an opportunity for someone to ask: “How can I help you?”
Recognised around the world
Lauren and Tom wore the Sunflower throughout their travels across South America, including in the Galápagos Islands.
They found that staff recognised the symbol even when language differences made it more difficult to explain their needs.
“At times, it almost felt like a universal language, especially when there was a language barrier.”
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower began at Gatwick Airport in 2016 and is now recognised in more than 90 countries, including at over 340 airports and by more than 30 airlines.
However, recognition and the support available can vary between locations. Those travelling should check whether their airport, airline and destination are part of the Sunflower network and arrange any required Special Assistance directly with the relevant provider before travelling.
You can explore our list of Sunflower-friendly airports and airlines around the world.
Understanding, not preferential treatment
Wearing the Sunflower does not automatically provide priority access, fast-track services or permission to move to the front of a queue.
On some journeys, Tom has accessed existing assistance services provided by an airport or airline. This may include support through the airport or help during boarding.
Any assistance is provided by the airport or airline based on the passenger’s needs and its own accessibility arrangements, not by the Sunflower lanyard itself.
For Tom, this support is not about receiving preferential treatment. It can help him avoid sensory overload, reduce anxiety and make the journey more manageable.
The Sunflower is simply a discreet way to communicate that someone may need support, understanding or a little more time.
Travelling with greater confidence
Lauren and Tom’s experience shows how a small, widely recognised symbol can help bridge communication gaps and make unfamiliar environments feel more accessible.
“For us, it’s made travelling feel much more manageable and has taken away some of the anxiety that comes with it, which means we can do more of what we love and travel with confidence.”
Their story is also an important reminder that the challenges someone experiences may not be visible. A little patience and understanding from staff and fellow people travelling can make a significant difference.
Watch Lauren and Tom’s story
Watch Lauren and Tom share how the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower has supported them while travelling around the world.
Follow @neuroduo on Instagram for more about neurodiversity, travel and their life together.
Follow Lauren and TomHave you had a positive experience using the Sunflower while travelling? Tell us about the places and people who helped you feel understood and supported.