Transgender travel guide

Travelling as a trans person comes with unique challenges, which the travel industry is not yet understanding of. It has become legal and political.

States like California, Oregon, Washington, Massachusetts, New York, Illinois, Colorado, and Minnesota have maintained strong nondiscrimination protections and, in many cases, passed “shield laws” designed to protect access to gender-affirming care and prevent state agencies from cooperating with out-of-state prosecutions.

These states also tend to house some of the nation’s most beloved destinations.

Take time in advance of traveling to look at your options so you have clothes that are empowering but also comfortable and safe. It is also emotional. Unfortunately, there is really no country that is doing everything right in regards to trans rights, but there are some destinations that are much safer than others. You will have a video call with the hosts before setting up the sit, so you have an opportunity to talk to them and assess if you feel safe going ahead with it

Most Affordable Destinations with Trans Protections

• Malta: Self-identification has been legal since 2015, they have offered the X gender marker since 2017 on passports and IDs, and since last year, birth certificates.

  It also sets expectations for cultural norms that may be different than what I’m used to living in the Northeast US.

  Some U.S. states and international destinations have criminalized aspects of trans existence, from identity documents to public accommodations.

  I strongly recommend understanding the laws before you pick a vacation destination, so you know what to expect.

  If you’re worried about sudden policy changes, book refundable flights and hotels.

  Identify any other support needs you have.

  That’s where a travel safety plan comes in. It’s not about fear, it’s about being prepared and empowered despite current events.

  This 3-step plan will set your expectations and help you prepare. Once home to vibrant LGBTQ+ tourism in Miami and Orlando, the state now carries some of the strictest bathroom restrictions in the country.

  Consider bringing a copy of your prescription with you. By planning ahead, prioritising safety, and connecting with LGBTQ+ communities, you can explore the world with confidence and joy. Here’s how to prepare:

  • Body Scanners: These devices can flag binders, packers and prosthetics, as the operator will select the sex they perceive you as, for example, the machine will therefore flag a packer if it has been told the person inside is female.

    Anti-trans discrimination isn’t exactly something covered by travel insurance.

    

    Large airports in restrictive states may still maintain family or gender-neutral restrooms, which can be lifelines during long travel days. But this vigilance does not mean abandoning the idea of travel altogether. Stay Informed and Flexible

    Stay updated on travel advisories and legal changes that might impact your trip.

    Florida passed its own sweeping bathroom ban in 2023 that criminalizes trans people who use restrooms aligning with their gender identity in government buildings.

    As you learn about local laws and policies, consider how – if at all – that changes your travel plans. There is a cost associated with the platform, it’s on a sliding scale to make it as accessible as possible (between €2.90-4.90 a month)

  • House-sitting and work-exchange programs like TrustedHousesitters can offer free accommodation, the benefit of house sitting is that you have privacy that isn’t usually granted at hostels.