Dealing with Sensory Overload in Public Places

Yes. I can't go grocery shopping by myself, and I always wear my ear defenders but it isn't always enough. The smaller stores (my local co-op) are better but also pricey. No matter where you go the colors and information on products will be overwhelming. I made the mistake of going to Costco last year and had a meltdown in the checkout aisle >_<.

If you're based in the UK, some supermarkets have Autism hour where they turn the lights down, music off, and sounds on scanners off.

This definitely happens to me as well. I usually bring earbuds with me and play music really low but turn up the volume if I notice I'm starting to get overwhelmed. I notice this is a big issue I have with stores like Target though; the bright red color everywhere feels so intrusive :(