Accessible Travel: Tips and Considerations for a Smooth Journey
Traveling can be an exciting experience, and for individuals who use wheelchairs or have other mobility needs, careful planning is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here’s a guide on how to navigate airports, accommodations, activities, and more with ease.
Before You Go: Research and Planning
Traveling with a wheelchair involves more than just booking a flight or reserving a hotel room. It’s essential to research accessibility at each stage of your journey, from the airport to your hotel and the activities you plan to enjoy.
Airline Services and TSA Cares
TSA Cares Program: If you're flying, the TSA Cares program is an invaluable resource. The TSA Cares team can assist you with screening procedures, explain what to expect, and ensure your safety and comfort throughout the process. Be sure to call at least 72 hours before your flight to receive personalized assistance navigating security.
Gate Check Your Wheelchair: When flying, it’s important to notify your airline in advance about your wheelchair. Most airlines allow you to gate check a wheelchair or mobility device at no additional cost. Additionally, be sure to ask about policies regarding the transport of mobility devices, especially powered chairs, as some have specific rules about batteries and such. If possible, bring a bag and keep your removeable wheelchair parts in the cabin with you for their safety.
Aisle Chairs: Airlines offer aisle chairs to assist you with boarding and deplaning. Be sure to make these arrangements ahead of time to avoid delays.
Accessible Transportation at Your Destination
After arriving at your destination, getting around is one of the most crucial aspects of accessible travel. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Accessible Taxis and Ride Shares: Many cities now offer accessible taxis or ride-share options, such as Uber WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles) or Lyft’s accessible rides. Always check in advance to confirm these services are available at your destination.
Accessible Public Transportation: Many public transit systems offer accessible buses, trains, and stations. Before you go, research the routes, schedules, and accessibility features of the local transportation network.
Car Rentals and Accessible Vehicles: Some rental agencies offer adapted vehicles for those with mobility needs. If you need a van with a lift or hand controls, call the rental agency ahead of time to confirm availability.
Medical Equipment and Supplies
Medical Supplies and Local Suppliers: If you require medical supplies during your trip, research local suppliers at your destination. Some hotels may also provide basic medical equipment (like bath benches or shower chairs), but it’s often best to confirm with the hotel in advance or rent from a local supplier for anything specialized.
Hotel Concierge: Call your hotel’s concierge to assist you with any needs to make your trip more comfortable, for example, arranging with a local supplier for a hospital bed in your room.
Hotel Accessibility
When booking accommodations, accessibility goes beyond just the room. Here are a few tips for ensuring a comfortable stay:
Accessible Rooms: Make sure the hotel you’re booking has accessible rooms with wide doorways, roll-in showers, and adjustable-height beds. Ask about features like grab bars, shower chairs, and low counters. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm that the room meets your specific needs.
Amenities for Medication: If you need to store medications that require refrigeration, ask the hotel if they can provide a small fridge in your room. Many hotels will accommodate such requests, but it’s important to confirm in advance.
Accessibility Around the Hotel: Ask about the accessibility of hotel amenities like the restaurant, gym, or pool area. Many hotels are now designed with universal access in mind, but it’s always good to check. Inquire about ramps, elevators, and accessible bathrooms in common areas.
Activities and Attractions
Many attractions are now designed with accessibility in mind, offering everyone the opportunity to explore with ease.
Ultra-Accessible Attractions: Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio, Texas, is a standout destination for individuals with disabilities. This fully accessible theme park features wheelchair-friendly rides, sensory-friendly spaces, and inclusive activities, creating a welcoming experience for visitors of all abilities.
Outdoor Activities: Many outdoor destinations, like national parks and beaches, now have accessible pathways, ramps, and boardwalks. Be sure to research accessible hiking trails or beach areas that are equipped with beach wheelchairs.
Museums and Cultural Centers: Many museums and cultural attractions have adapted for all. Check with museums about accessible entrances, ramps, and specialized programs for visitors with disabilities.
Adaptive Sports: Look for destinations that offer adaptive sports like wheelchair basketball, kayaking, or skiing. Many resorts and cities now offer these activities as part of their inclusive recreation programs.
Plan Your Next Adventure with Confidence
With advancements in universal design and accessibility, traveling is more inclusive than ever, allowing everyone to embark on new adventures. Remember to plan ahead for special requests like accessible transportation, accommodations, or medical equipment to ensure a seamless experience. Start preparing today and enjoy your next journey with ease and confidence!