10 Wheelchair Prep Tips for Your Ideal Summer Vacation

People with disabilities want to explore the world as much as we do, but planning wheelchair-friendly vacations is often easier said than done.

First, you need to think about accessibility at every step, from airports and bus stations to hotels and restrooms. Although it has been more than three decades since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law, many public places and services remain inaccessible for wheelchair users.

Second, you need to prepare your wheelchair for the trip. It’s one thing to travel with a lot of luggage and quite another to carry a 300-pound power wheelchair with you. But if you plan ahead, you can get your wheelchair travel gear ready for the next summer vacation.

Here are a few tips for your summer trip wheelchair prep.

1. Check If the Train and Bus Stations Are Accessible

You may already have shortlisted a wheelchair-friendly destination, but before you set off, you need to know if train and bus stations along your route are accessible.

While most public transport in the US is wheelchair friendly, some bus and train stations may lack ramps, elevators, or adequate space for maneuvering a power wheelchair. It's better to double-check before you start your trip.

Apps like Google Maps can help you find which bus and train stations are accessible. Google has already introduced the wheelchair-accessible routes feature, which makes it easy for those with disabilities to get around.

Many cities have their own transportation apps that provide up-to-date accessibility information. Download the metro or train app from the city you plan to visit and find out which train and bus stations are accessible.

2. Call TSA or Your Airline

Flying with a wheelchair is never easy, but calling the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) or your airline as soon as you’ve booked your tickets can make things easier. The TSA provides guidelines for travelers with disabilities, including what to expect during security screenings and how to prepare. These tips can help complete security checks and boarding processes in relatively less time and hassle.

Some airlines may have specialized services for those with disabilities. They can arrange for assistance, such as help with boarding, and ensure that your wheelchair gets handled correctly.

When you call the airline, let them know about the size, weight, and dimensions of your power wheelchair. You will also need to tell them which type of battery your power wheelchair uses—wet, dry, or gel cell. Tell the airline if you need help boarding the plane or transferring to the airplane seat.

3. Arrive Early

Traveling can be unpredictable, and arriving early may help you manage unexpected delays. Airlines typically recommend arriving at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international one.

But you should arrive early because navigating busy airports, security checks, and boarding can take time. You can check in your power wheelchair once you are at the gate. Ask the airline to deliver your wheelchair at the gate when you land, not the baggage claim area, to ensure your convenience.

For train and bus travel, arriving early ensures you have ample time to find accessible routes and get assistance if needed. But more importantly, starting your journey with plenty of time reduces stress and sets a positive tone for your trip.

4. Get the Right Wheelchair Accessories

Pack the right wheelchair travel gear to make your trip comfortable and convenient. You might want to consider packing items like wheelchair cushions, cupholders, seatbelts, and bags for carrying personal belongings.

While cushions reduce the risk of pressure sores and ensure comfort, seat belts can help you stay safe during travel. A cup holder can hold your water, keeping you hydrated during your flight or train journey.

5. Pack for Minor Repairs

Even with the best preparation, your wheelchair might need minor repairs. We recommend packing a small emergency toolkit and a wheelchair guide when traveling. The kit can include spare tires, tubes, duct tape, zip ties, bubble wrap, and basic tools for quick fixes.

While major fixes are best left to professionals, knowing how to perform minor repairs can be a lifesaver when you're far from home and need to address a problem quickly. Before your trip, you can practice using your repair kit to feel confident about handling minor issues. 

6. Check Your Wheelchair for Damages After Getting Off

Whether you are flying or taking a train, after getting down, always check your wheelchair for damages. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as bent frames, loose screws, or flat tires, and report the damage, if any. If you are flying, you can register a complaint with the airport staff and the Complaints Resolution Official (CRO).

7. Pack Your Wheelchair Charger

Make sure your power wheelchair charger is in good condition before you leave. If you are traveling internationally, bring a universal adapter because different countries have different plug types and voltage levels.

Pack your charger in your cabin luggage in a safe place so you can quickly plug it in when needed. Pack a spare if you have one. If one charger breaks down or gets damaged, you can use the spare to keep your wheelchair going during the trip.

8. Get Your Shower Chair

While many hotels have accessible bathrooms with roll-in showers and grab bars, they may not necessarily provide shower wheelchairs. Packing a portable shower chair helps you take care of your personal hygiene without any discomfort.

Your portable shower chair should be lightweight, foldable, and easy to carry. When preparing your wheelchair for travel, pack it in bubble wrap to avoid damage, especially if you are flying. Most airlines require you to check in your shower chair, which requires proper packaging to avoid any damage during the flight.

9. Pack a Portable Ramp

Whether it’s a beach or a museum, a lightweight, foldable ramp can help you explore public places freely and safely. Many public and private places may not be completely accessible, making it essential to carry a small, portable ramp with you.

It can help you deal with unexpected obstacles, navigate curbs, and enter a building without risking your safety. Just be sure to pack a ramp that is easy to carry and set up and practice using it before your trip.

10. Pack Your Wheelchair for the Travel

If you are flying, consider gate-checking your wheelchair to reduce handling. This means you can use your power wheelchair until you are at the gate, and the airline will return it to you at the gate when you land, which minimizes the risk of damage.

When preparing your wheelchair for travel, pack it properly using bubble wrap and duct tape to prevent damage during transit. Use Velcro straps to secure all parts and avoid movement or damage. If possible, you can remove the joystick and carry it with you in the cabin luggage. But if it’s not detachable, you should double-wrap it in bubble wrap to avoid damage.

Properly packing your wheelchair ensures it arrives in the same condition as when you left, ready for use.

Get Summer Ready

Although traveling comes with challenges for wheelchair users, planning ahead can help you plan a perfect summer vacation. So, plan thoughtfully, pack wisely, and communicate your travel needs to the airline or TSA well in advance to travel stress-free.

As far as wheelchair travel gear is concerned, Build My Wheelchair is here to help. We have a wide range of wheelchair accessories and mobility aids that can help you plan a safe and happy trip.