Traveling is truly exciting, providing the opportunity for new experiences and memories. Despite this, when you require a power chair, the whole travel process can seem overwhelming. After all, there are so many more aspects to think about and prepare. That’s why it’s so important to plan properly and put the right strategies in place to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Detailed below are just some of the top tips to help you embark on your next journey with confidence.
Research Your Destination
Ahead of booking your trip, you need to thoroughly research your destination. This means looking for information on the accessibility of the places you plan to visit. For instance, hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, and public transport all need to be considered. Fortunately, plenty of cities and tourist destinations have made strides in improving accessibility. That said, it’s very important that you ensure all your specific needs will be met. Tripadvisor, Yelp, and other websites like these typically talk about accessibility. What’s more, many cities have official tourism websites with detailed accessibility information.
Choose the Right Accommodation
If you’re to have a comfortable stay, you need to make sure that the accommodation is right for you. For instance, when booking a hotel, you’re going to need to look for rooms that are specifically designed for accessibility. Typically speaking, these rooms have wider doorways, roll-in showers, grab bars, and lower sinks. When booking, it’s wise to call the hotel directly and confirm these features, and you might also want to take the opportunity to ask about other amenities like accessible parking and on-site dining options.
Plan Your Transportation
Another aspect of traveling that requires thorough planning is transportation. For instance, if you’re flying, you’ll need to inform the airline about your intention to travel with a power chair, as well as any specific needs you may have. Naturally, airlines have to be able to accommodate people of all abilities; however, they require advance notice so that they can arrange the appropriate assistance. Similarly, it’s a good idea to arrive at the airport early to allow extra time for security checks and boarding.
Once you’ve made it to your destination, you might need accessible taxis, rental vans, or public transportation options. There are many cities with accessible bus and train services, but it’s always wise to check schedules and routes in advance.
Pack Smart
Packing can be a challenge in itself, but it’s only made more difficult when you have a power chair. Not only do you need to bring along your personal items, but you also need to bring any necessary equipment and supplies for your power chair. This might include a portable charger, spare batteries, a toolkit for minor repairs, and any other specialized accessories you use regularly. Similarly, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to bring a list of local repair shops or service centers on the off chance that your power chair needs maintenance during your trip.
Know Your Power Chair’s Specifications
Dimensions, weight, and battery type are the dimensions you should keep in mind when traveling with a power chair. This knowledge will help you ensure a hassle-free journey and will help you out when it comes to booking transportation and accommodation. What’s more, these specifications are useful in the event that you need assistance or your chair is in need of repairs. When traveling, you should also always have a copy of your chair’s manual on you, as well as the contact information for the manufacturer or service provider.
Don’t let your power chair hold you back – let it empower you to see the world!
