Traveling with a disability whether it is a cane, walker or wheelchair, you do lose a certain amount of spontaneity. You don’t have the ability to just get up and go, literally. So to make the trip enjoyable for yourself and those that you are traveling with, organization is the key, humor and good moods are the necessity.
Before you Leave, make a list and start planing at least three months ahead of time. From selecting the right suitcase to selecting the airline, airplane, rental car and hotel, select those that will be of most help to you. Planning will help cut down your frustration level, as well as heighten the enjoyment of your trip.
Don’t take the kitchen sink! Make a list of what you’re going to take. Lay it out then discard, discard, discard. Take first, what you like to wear and is comfortable. Then consider the climate and itinerary. Remember you don’t want or need 2 heavy bags that others might have to cart for you.
Packing Tip: Take one small bag onto the plane, with any medication or medical apparatus that you might need, or that you would definitely need if your bag gets lost. Plus one change of cloths. You never know how fast the rest of your luggage will catch up to you.
Travel Agents are convenient and there are some excellent agents that specialize in disabled travel. I would rather have more control over my actual arrangements, it somehow empowers me. So I do all my own reserving. When making reservations, get the person’s name as well as time and date. This is a great backup if there are problems. Or if you have an iphone or smart phone, transfer any confirmation numbers or emails to the phone as a backup.
Most hotel chains have 800 numbers, but you can save more money by calling the hotel directly to make your reservations. They will usually have special rates, the 800 numbers will not be aware of. It gives you an opportunity to ask heaps of questions about their facilities. Even if you are not in a wheelchair, but are a little unsteady or slow, request the “Handicap room”. Usually it is bigger and definitely more convenient.
In a pinch, though, if a handicap room is not available, try this. Get a regular room. Usually the room door itself is accessible and you can wheel as far as the first bed. However, it is the bathroom door which usually doesn’t meet ADA requirements. But most hotels do have a public bathroom in the lobby or if they have a pool, near the pool which would have accessible doors. For basic needs of a bathroom, this will do.
There are a couple places that rent cars and vans with special adaptations for you if you need them. My recommended choice for a vehicle would be a mini van. It’s easier to maneuver and has enough space for a wheelchair and luggage. If you have a handicapped placard, don’t forget to bring it along. If you rent a vehicle, it will not have any disabled plates.
When booking airline reservations, advance reservations are cheaper and better. When booking the seats, ask for the bulkhead seat. It is the first seat and is a must if you need leg room. Your next choice should be an isle seat, for ease of getting in and out of. Tell them your needs in advance, including dietary needs. Remember they are available to assist but not to dictate, make your own decisions.
Where would you like to go? The 2010 Paralympics? London? New York City? Green Bay?
Travel expands experiences. It’s a glorious eye opener and a mind expander. It is just great to go out and experience life for ourselves.
If you are disabled, travel can even do more for you. It can supply you with a reprieve from dependence. Traveling can replenish your confidence and set you free if not in body, in spirit and soul. It can increase your imagination and open your heart. What it boils down to is this: that’s a big old world out there, so go and experience it!
Pingback: Traveling With Disabled People