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 The world is now more accessible than ever before.
Twenty percent (62 million) of the U.S. population has
some form of disability, and the number of these
individuals is increasing daily. These people need to,
want to, and can travel. If you’re part of that twenty
percent, a world of travel awaits you. Travel professionals such as my dad who
are accessible travel advocates certified by Special
Needs Group, the leading global provider of special
needs equipment for the travel industry, have unique,
specialized knowledge about how to help individuals with
disabilities enjoy a wonderful, hassle-free and
memorable trip.
Here are a few tips to ensure that
when your next travel opportunity arises, you are ready
to go. Outline your travel needs
Take time to evaluate the logistics
of your trip in relation to your ability to keep pace.
What modes of transportation will you be using?
Airplane, motor coach, train, ship, transit vans for
ground transfers? Make a list, referring to relevant
brochures, your trip organizer or travel agent to make
sure you don’t miss anything.
 Now, make a list of your specific requirements. Be honest:
what types of special needs equipment do you depend on
at home? What do you use or need (or wish you had!) when
shopping, sightseeing locally, dining out or going to
the movies, attending concerts, the theater, street
fairs or sporting events at home? Can you hear and see clearly without
special auditory equipment or visual aides? How far can
you walk without a rest break? Are stairs difficult? Can
you get in and out of the tub or shower at home without
handgrips or other assistance? Travel, whether solo or in a group, is
no time for roughing it or trying to “tough it out.” If
a wheelchair, scooter or portable oxygen will make your
trip easier, place that item on your list. Many people
who do not use wheelchairs or walkers at home feel more
comfortable using these mobility aides for tour and
excursions. In fact, most of Special Needs Group’s
wheelchair and scooter rentals are to individuals who
only use such aides when traveling. Plan Ahead If you already own a scooter or
portable oxygen, it’s important to know the policy and
procedures for bringing that equipment onboard all the
transport vehicles included in your itinerary, from
planes to taxis to ferry boats. Does that transport have
a way to stow your scooter or wheelchair? Is oxygen
allowed on board? Some airlines prohibit certain types
of batteries, such as wet cell batteries, or oxygen
cylinders. Airlines operate under strict rules, so there
may be packing procedures to follow if they do allow the
equipment. Keep in mind, most airlines need at least 48
hours’ notice to make special arrangements, and be
prepared to fill out forms.
 Overall, cruise ships are more lenient in allowing oxygen,
but some disallow certain types of oxygen. All require
that the oxygen be delivered to the ship, and that you
have enough for the entire voyage. Oxygen may never be
brought aboard in your luggage. Requirements vary, so
check your cruise line for proper instructions. Again,
documentation and paperwork are required. Whether you are headed for a cruise
ship, hotel or all-inclusive resort, double check for
wheelchair access at that venue, plus any venues you
will be visiting on the trip. Confirm that accessible
hotel rooms, resort accommodations or ship staterooms
are available for your travel dates. The earlier you
book, the better your chances of securing fully
accessible accommodations. And early booking increases
your chances of securing a ground floor hotel room or
cruise stateroom near the elevator, if these issues are
important.
Check on the access to public rooms, restaurants, bars,
toilets, the swimming pool, hot tub, beach area and
other amenities. Are there TDD phone devices? How will
you get in and out of the shower or bathtub? Are there
flashing lights to accommodate hearing? Braille room
numbers? Knowing in advance the scope of your needs
gives you time to arrange advance rentals of any
necessary equipment, scheduled to arrive when you do.
Everything from scooters, lifts, ramps, TDD kits and
special mattresses, including special needs cribs, is
available for rental.
Will road travel or car excursions be
part of the trip? Many car rental companies have
vehicles that are modified for drivers or passengers
with mobility limitations. Check ahead to make sure a
suitable vehicle will be available for your travel
dates. If you will be hiring a car or van, make sure the
company is aware of your special needs. When traveling with a limitation or
disability, full travel insurance for medical coverage
abroad and trip cancellation insurance are even more
important and strongly advised. Ask the Right
Questions
When making the final bookings, be
sure you ask the right questions, even if the
accommodations or cruise stateroom are categorized as
“accessible.”
 For example, are doorways wide enough for the largest
wheelchairs? Do the doors open outwards or into the
room? Are
all the public areas of the hotel, resort or ship
accessible? Do you need to make special arrangements in
the dining room to accommodate the wheelchair or
scooter?
Will the bathroom facilities truly fit your needs? Is
the bathroom large enough for the wheelchair or scooter?
Is there a roll-in shower? Grab-bars? Are there facilities for
companion/assistance animals? Are there shopping and entertainment
facilities close by if you are staying at a hotel or
resort? On
shore excursions or tours, does the van have a lift and
method for transporting wheelchairs and scooters? Simply stated, don’t take anything for
granted. It’s easy to arrange for almost every
situation, and the world is wonderfully accessible, once
you know what’s needed, what’s available and how to find
the necessary equipment.
We look forward to helping you with
all of your accessible travel needs!
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