Travel Suggestions Blog

Increased emphasis on public accessibility for disabled people has opened up a whole new world for easier wheelchair travel. From walkways to buildings, people in wheelchairs are experiencing more freedom.

New laws are requiring that buildings and sidewalks be more accessible. There are now automatic door openers, ramps into buildings, curb cuts on street corners and doorways are generally wider. Even buses have flat entry points and empty spaces for wheelchair riders. The loud and gently insistent voices of advocates for the disabled travel enthusiast have made all of this possible for wheelchair travel.

Thanks to them, people in wheelchairs are able to live their lives to the fullest and see the wonderful world that’s waiting for them. Having said that, people of limited mobility still have to plan their holidays more carefully than others. There are still many things to consider when making travel arrangements.

The accessibility of your destination, particularly if it’s a third world country or remote area, needs to be researched, as does your hotel, airline and accessibility to medication and medical facilities.

Booking your vacation online is convenient but there are questions specific to your needs that you won’t find answers to on a website. Like, can the doorways of the hotel rooms accommodate a wheelchair? Can you access the front door with your wheelchair? Some hotels even have rooms for the handicapped, and if they do, make sure you have a reservation number. It would be horrible to book a room and arrive only to find they have no record of your reservation. You need proof.

Services for disabled passengers vary from airline to airline. Make phone calls to check on provisions made by the airline for wheelchairs. Ensure that you can access the plane in your own wheelchair, or if not, what type of service do they provide. Will they stow your wheelchair in the luggage compartment and what assurances can they give you that your chair will not be damaged? Find out what the airline’s policy is for lost or stolen luggage, which may include your wheelchair.

Some airlines may ask for a “fit to travel” certificate from your doctor, in which they must list the medications you’re taking, if any. This is also important when crossing international borders. This will assist in getting through customs or security with a minimum of disruption if you are found to be carrying prescription drugs.

Don’t leave home without adequate travel insurance. It’s good practice for any traveler, but for someone in a wheelchair, insurance is even more important. You need to be covered if you should become injured as a result of a fall. Food-borne illnesses and vulnerability to new viruses can also be a concern. All it takes to have a safe, healthy holiday is some advance planning.