Suggestions Concerning Being Prepared For Wheelchair Travel

Local governments are implementing new laws regarding accessibility of walkways and buildings for the disabled, making the world at large more accessible for the disabled and wheelchair travel.

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, traveling 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. Despite these societal advances, people who must travel in their wheelchairs still need to do some advance planning to ensure their comfort and safety, especially when planning vacations in foreign countries.

Particularly if the holiday destination is in a third world country or remote area such as in parts of Africa, the destination should be scouted out. Check out the hotel and the airlines. What other facilities are in the area that you may need. Where are the hospitals and can you easily fill any prescriptions you might require.

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.

Does your airline require a doctor’s note listing the prescription drugs that you’re taking? This would be a smart thing to do regardless of the airline’s policy. If you’re crossing a border or even if you’re being screened at security, you can avoid needless scrutiny about any drugs you’re carrying if you have a note from your doctor.

Make sure you have proper travel insurance. This can’t be emphasized enough. People in wheelchairs can often be more vulnerable to viruses or have delicate digestion. Should you have an accident and fall from your chair, what coverage do you have and for how long. A little advance preparation will make all the difference between a nice holiday and a great holiday!