People with special needs have many options for travel. What are you looking for? What are you looking forward to experiencing? Individuals with disabilities can easily find accessible travel options to many amazing destinations around the world by planning well and asking important questions.
You don’t have to be afraid of vacationing or going on business. There are many places that can accommodate your needs.
There are many places to go and things to do.
Family Vacations – There are many options for families with special needs. There are many options for creating family memories. These include amusement parks and theme parks that cater to a variety of disabilities, as well camps that provide accommodations and programs for people with a wide range of special needs. Access guides and travel agents who specialize in disability travel can be used to make Disney World and other national parks, museums and attractions accessible for people with disabilities.
Special Needs Travel Planning – There are many companies that specialize in designing group tours, cruises and individual wheelchair travel options. These companies create itineraries and arrangements for special needs travelers. They assist with making arrangements and providing the necessary resources to make your trip memorable.
Travel Resources for Special Needs
Travel agencies & tour groups – There are a number of tour and travel agencies that offer special services for people with disabilities. These agencies and groups offer assistance with planning and executing vacations that are suitable for individuals with a wide range of special needs.
There are many companies that offer travel companions. You should only choose companions who are reputable and have credible references.
Accessibility guides – There are many publications, websites, and blogs that can help you plan your trip. These guides provide information about accommodations, transportation, and other resources that can be used to assist people with disabilities when traveling.
Travel Wheelchairs – The right chair for you can make your trip more enjoyable and less stressful. Travel wheelchairs are specifically designed to make travel easy and safe. You want a chair that is durable and comfortable, lightweight, compact, collapsible and easy to move.
Online Resources
Disability Travel and Recreation Resources (MAKOA.org).
Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality
Travelconsumer.com
DisabledTravelers.com
Additional travel tips
Airplane Travel – Flying by plane can be intimidating, especially for those who are disabled or in a wheelchair. While airlines are required to offer reasonable accommodation for people with special needs, this does not mean that you should abandon your travel comfort to the airline. You can make your airport and flight experience more enjoyable by planning ahead.
To ensure sufficient time to clear security and get to the gate, plan to arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight.
Consider avoiding sitting for prolonged periods of time if you feel uncomfortable. If you have limited mobility, it is worth considering whether the aircraft may make it difficult to use the restroom. You may be able to use small chairs provided by some airlines to help you get to the toilet. However, it is a good idea to limit your time on the plane.
While it may cost more to book non-stop flights, limiting your connections can help reduce stress and make it easier to navigate multiple airports within a short time.
Do your research on the airline and plane before you travel. Is the plane large enough to accommodate a wheelchair? Is it possible to reserve an aisle seat
At security checkpoints, individuals in wheelchairs and scooters will be subject to extensive searches. Although it can be tedious and uncomfortable, all passengers are subject to thorough searches at security checkpoints.
To make it easier for you to transition through security, if you are on medication or have mobility limitations, it is a good idea to get a letter from your doctor.
Hotel Accommodations – While commercial establishments are generally required to make accommodations accessible to handicapped persons, there are some things you can do to ensure a pleasant stay at your hotel. If possible, make your hotel reservations by phone. Ask if the doors of the rooms are large enough to accommodate a wheelchair, and if the bathrooms and showers are accessible for handicapped users. For your reservation to be confirmed, make sure you get a confirmation number. It is a good idea to request a room at the ground floor. Also, make sure you verify that there is an elevator.
