Being a traveler with a disability certainly comes with its challenges, but times have changed, and accessible travel is more popular than ever. With proper planning, you can have an enjoyable and worthwhile vacation, just like everyone else. Being a traveler with a disability comes with its challenges. Read on to discover the best travel tips for people with disabilities a smooth trip here.
Read on to discover the best handicap travel tips for a smooth trip.
Travel Tips for Handicapped
Ask Your Airline for Assistance
When it comes to handicapped flight travel, it is a good idea to ask your airline for assistance. You can do this either at the time you book your flight or a few days before your trip.
Asking for help from your airline will make your time at the airport much easier. You can also request assistance from the airline when you land at your destination.
Plan With Your Hotel in Advance
Many hotels in all price ranges welcome handicapped travelers. It is essential to give your hotel a heads up about your needs, especially if there’s anything specific.
If you’re traveling with a wheelchair, be sure to get the measurements of the front door of the hotel room as well as the bathroom doors in advance to make sure your wheelchair will fit.
Hotel concierges are usually more than happy to provide you with this information to ensure a satisfactory stay at their hotel, and many lists this information online.
Decide Whether to Bring or Borrow a Wheelchair
Traveling with your own wheelchair definitely has its pros, like knowing the comfort level of the chair as well as not having to worry about arranging a wheelchair for every leg of the journey.
What if you’re traveling to Europe where their outlets have different sockets and voltages? Borrowing or renting may be the better option when it comes to handicapped travel in Europe with electric wheelchairs.
Consider a Tour
Many guides offer both private and group trips for handicapped travelers. These preset itineraries take into account the needs of handicap travel, so you don’t have to arrange anything yourself.
Replicate the Home Routine As Much As Possible
When planning an itinerary, it is essential to factor in your home routine. If you have more energy around the morning, it’s best to plan sightseeing around that time. It’s also a good idea to avoid doing too much in one day, especially when it comes to handicapped senior travel.
If traveling with a senior citizen, take a look at these senior citizen vacation spots.
In short, when it comes to handicap travel, if you require it at home, plan on needing it during vacation as well.
Take Advantage of Discounts
If you’re traveling within the U.S., consider getting a National Park Service Access Pass. It’s free for U.S. citizens with permanent disabilities and grants access to all of the national parks, historic sites, and more.
Museums, theme parks, and zoos are some other attractions that often offer discounts.
Make Sure Travel Insurance Includes Medical Coverage
Not all travel insurance plans include medical coverage; some only cover financial losses. Medicare also doesn’t cover overseas travel. When choosing a medical provider, make sure you choose one that includes medical evacuation in case of an emergency.
Conclusion
Being a traveler with a disability certainly comes with its challenges, but times have changed, and accessible travel is more popular than ever. With proper planning, you can have an enjoyable and worthwhile vacation, just like everyone else.
We hope you found our list of the top seven handicap travel tips for a smooth trip helpful. Check out our blog for more posts like this one!
