Just a generation ago, traveling with a disability was a huge hassle, if not downright impossible. But these days, thanks to the implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the large advances in technology, engineering, and design it’s getting to be almost as easy to explore a foreign city as it is your own! With a little bit of planning, you’ll be well on your way to your dream vacation. To get you off on the right foot, we’ve compiled our best tips for traveling with a disability. 

Planning

A good travel agent is worth her weight in gold, and I can’t stress that enough for agents that specialize in accessible travel. The best planning tip we can give is to find a disabled travel specialist who will be able to walk you through the entire planning process. They can guide you towards the most accessible destinations and they have close ties with resorts and hotels that go above and beyond in their accommodations for disabled guests. Overall, you’ll worry much less since the agent handles all of your needs.

If you prefer to strike out on your own, though, you’ll need to research what hotels, flights, car rentals or shuttle services offer the services that you specifically need to travel in comfort. Don’t be afraid to call service providers and ask questions about their accommodations before booking anything or to see if they offer discounts for people with disabilities. Also, check with your doctor before you book your vacation to see if it’s even recommended that you travel and if you’ll need any specific medication while you’re away. They may also be able to refer you to a trusted colleague in your vacation destination in case you need any medical care while away.

Booking

Although we do strongly recommend going through a travel agent that specializes in disabled travel, we understand that some people are more comfortable making their own arrangements. If you’re ready to book, you’d be better off calling to make reservations rather than booking online. This way you can speak to a supervisor to ensure that the company can accommodate your disability. If you’re concerned about their capability to honor your requests, try to get their promise in writing. Also, do your due diligence and read through any contracts as well as the documentation you receive when you get travel insurance quotes to double check that the insurance covers your specific medical condition.

When booking your flights, you’re better off paying more for a direct flight and avoiding connections. Not only is it more comfortable to fly directly, but if you have a connecting flight, you may not have enough time to make it to pre-boarding, which could result in a delay in take-off. You’ll also want to decide before your trip whether you’ll be bringing your own equipment like a wheelchair or walker or whether you’ll be renting your own. If you choose to rent, reserve your rentals at the same time you reserve your flight and hotel to ensure they don’t run out. 

Traveling

Be prepared before you leave. Get a note from your doctor outlining your condition in case of an emergency and always pack your medical essentials in your carry-on case. Flying is probably the largest obstacle you’ll face when traveling so allow extra time for check-in, going through the security process and boarding. It’s beneficial to call the airline (and all of your other bookings) 24-48 hours prior to departure just to remind them of accommodations that will be needed so your trip goes as smoothly as possible. If anything is uncomfortable or needs to be changed, don’t be shy. Communicate with the flight attendants or the hotel staff; it’s their job to ensure your safety and comfort.

It will also probably help your comfort level if you keep your travel routine as close to your home routine as possible. Don’t try to bite off more than you can chew just because you’re on vacation. If you normally get tired in the afternoon at home, plan your excursions for the mornings so you can rest later in the day. And our last tip is: remain positive. Not everything will go as planned so you’ll need to be flexible and try to enjoy the experience and not let the little snags get you down. Have fun and safe travels!