A Guide to Traveling with Disabilities and Using a Wheelchair

Traveling with disabilities is easy if you prepare ahead of time. From small details like understanding how to travel in a wheelchair and checking your wheelchair at the airport to accessing the shower in your hotel room to understanding which sites and tourist destinations are wheelchair accessible.

Travel for people with disabilities takes a little more planning, but it can be rather rewarding when you’re finally at your destination. Read on to learn more about traveling with a wheelchair.

Wheelchair Traveling: Book Wheelchair Accessible Accommodation

If you are traveling with disabilities or have modified mobility, remember to choose accommodations that make it easy to enter and exit the premises and the room. Accessibility includes a ramp in and out of the hotel, motel, or AirBnB. If it’s not available, consider packing a modular ramp or a portable wheelchair ramp. Moreover, if you are traveling with a wheelchair, consider places that offer elevators.

When booking the room, ensure the bathroom and shower or tub are handicap accessible for easy movement, too. When in doubt, ask the hotel any questions or concerns you may have ahead of time so you won’t be surprised when you check in.

Fly with Ease Whenever Possible

Flying with a wheelchair is more common than you may think. Air travel for wheelchair users is easier if you plan ahead. If possible, call the airline ahead of time to let them know you plan on traveling with a wheelchair. They may ask for the dimensions of your wheelchair and what type of battery it has if it’s electric. Keep this information handy when you arrive at the airport just in case they ask for it again.

Layovers can be cumbersome for any traveler. Choosing flights and airports with easy access to your wheelchair may save you a headache in the long run. When possible, choose a direct flight, even if there is a small upcharge.

Remember to arrive at the airport with enough time to check your baggage, go through security, and relax at the gate. Ideally plan for 2 hours from the time you arrive until you board the plane.

When traveling with a wheelchair, remember it may take a little more time to check it or to onboard so they can check the wheelchair at the gate. If you have the option, check your wheelchair at the gate so you are not at the mercy of the airport’s wheelchairs and assistance staff.

When booking your seat, ask for the seat behind the bulkhead — these often offer extra legroom which makes wheelchair accessibility easier. Most airlines offer pre-boarding for those with disabilities or wheelchairs.

Whether it’s a temporary or permanent disability, traveling with a wheelchair can be handled in a few different ways.

How to Travel with a Wheelchair

Before any grand adventure, you should double check the items you pack to ensure it’s clean, in working order, and suitable for travel — a wheelchair is no exception.

A week or so before your journey, inspect your wheelchair. Make sure the tires are free of soft spots, and the brakes work. If something is squeaky, take care of it. Tighten all components so the integrity of the wheelchair is secure and sound.

Plan Excessively

If you’re traveling with disabilities, there is no such thing as being overly prepared. Before you book your flights or hotel, research the location and ensure accommodations are available every step of the way. A little homework now saves a little headache later.

Research eateries and tourist destinations to ensure they can accommodate a wheelchair. If you’re renting a vehicle, double check there is space for your wheelchair or that the doors’ opening is large enough for you to easily enter and exit.

Just in case your journey does not go according to plan, have a backup ready. What if your wheelchair malfunctions or something breaks? A small toolkit in your checked baggage may be a helpful item to have just in case. It’s better to pack this and not need it than be stuck.

Traveling with disabilities can give you and those you travel with a unique perspective into the location you’re visiting. To learn more about aids for disability, and travel, contact Williams Lift today.