Flying Abroad? Here Are a Few Wheelchair Travel Tips for You

Travel, by nature, helps you open your mind to new people, places, and cultures. It's an experience no one should miss. But while traveling comes naturally for most of us, it’s an uphill battle for those with disabilities. Although there is no shortage of wheelchair-friendly vacation spots, getting there, especially on a flight, is easier said than done.

Flying abroad with a wheelchair can be stressful. Making it to the airport on time, getting through the airport security, packing your wheelchair, checking in your luggage, and boarding the plane can be challenging. But careful planning can help you travel without any major hiccups.

Here’s a list of wheelchair travel tips for you.

1. Plan Your Trip Well in Advance

Before preparing for wheelchair travel, be sure your destination is accessible. It should have wheelchair-friendly hotels, restaurants, tourist spots, and public transport. Wheelchair Travel is a great website to select a disability-friendly vacation spot.

Once you’ve selected a destination, look for the airlines with a direct flight to your destination if possible. A direct flight helps you travel with comfort. However, not all airlines are made equal. While Delta is the best US airline for those with disabilities, American Airlines and JetBlue are notorious for causing wheelchair damage.

After deciding on the airline, contact them well before your travel date and understand their specific policies on wheelchair services. Ask about which wheelchair travel gear you can carry in the cabin and which will go in the check-in. Some airlines may require you to share the wheelchair’s dimensions and battery type before flying. Also, inform the airline about your mobility needs at least 48 hours before your flight.

2. Pack Right and Pack Light

Like a road trip, pack right and light when you are traveling abroad with a wheelchair. Make a list of the essentials you will need for the trip and pack them first. These must-haves typically include: 

Tools for wheelchair maintenance, such as Allen wrenches, duct tape, and screwdrivers.

• A few spares like tires and cushions.
• Your medications and prescriptions.
• Portable chargers for your phone, iPad, or laptop.
• Charger for your power wheelchair and a spare battery (if possible).
• Important documents like passport, boarding pass, hotel reservation slips, and tickets.

Packing light makes your trip a lot less stressful. So, consider packing multi-use items and clothing that can be layered. Keep all your important documents, such as passport, tickets, and medical prescriptions, in an easily accessible carry-on bag. Having a doctor’s note explaining your medical condition can also be helpful.

3. On the Day of Your Travel

Call your airlines a day or two before your travel date to confirm your wheelchair service and boarding arrangements. Some airlines may ask you to remove wheelchair batteries and store them separately.

All passengers must arrive at the airport three hours before the flight, including those traveling abroad with a wheelchair. Being early gives you ample time for check-in and security clearance.

When you reach the airport, inform TSA agents about your mobility needs and request assistance (if needed). After checking in your luggage, check TSA’s screening procedures for passengers with disabilities. Usually, you’ll be screened using a metal detector or advanced imaging technology if you can stand and walk. If not, you will be pat down by a security officer of the same sex.

Prepare your wheelchair for transport. You should:

• Remove any parts of your wheelchair that easily come off and store them in a separate bag. You can take your joystick, headrest, and footrest in your carry-on bag.
• Use a bubble wrap or cushioning to protect your wheelchair from damage.
• Attach a copy of instructions on how to handle and store your chair. Take photos of your chair before flying, just in case.

When you reach your destination, check your wheelchair for damages. If it is damaged, take photos and report it to the airline staff. File your damage report with the Complaint Resolution Official (CRO) and get a copy of the report before leaving the airport. You can also file a complaint with the Department of Transportation.

4. Board Your Flight On-Time

Some airlines offer the option to pre-board, allowing you to find your seat and settle down comfortably. Ask your airline if they provide this service. Secondly, request airport staff to help you move around the airport, from check-in to boarding. They can also help you de-board the plane and transfer into your wheelchair at the destination. This service makes your international wheelchair travel much more comfortable.

Plan your restroom needs before you board your flight. Most airports now have apps to locate restrooms, lounges, and restaurants. Look for accessible restrooms and lounges at the airport, especially if you have a long layover. If you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask the airport staff for help.

5. Check Your Ground Transportation

Booking accessible transport in advance helps you reach the airport on time. Most US cities have local transport agencies that offer accessible taxis and shuttles to airports. For example, if you live in Milwaukee or the Chicago area, BirteLift is an excellent way to book accessible airport drop-off or pickup. You can find many such options in your city.

However, finding accessible ground transport may be challenging, depending on your destination. Public transport in major cities is often accessible, but you should verify its routes and schedules in advance. It helps you plan your airport transfers stress-free. If there is no reliable public transport, ask your hotel if they can arrange accessible airport transfers. It’s best to call the hotel directly to confirm this arrangement.

6. Research Your Destination

Our final wheelchair travel tip is to research your destination thoroughly, from its major tourist hotspots to lesser-known destinations and everything in between. Major cities have online resources that can help you understand their accessible infrastructure.

When you are researching a city, look for:

• Accessible infrastructure such as ramps, elevators, restrooms, and wide sidewalks.
• Wheelchair-friendly public and private transport, including airport shuttles.
• Disability-friendly restaurants and hotels.
• Local wheelchair repair shops and medical facilities.

Prepare a list of all these and consider the pros and cons of your destination before planning your trip. This thorough preparation helps you move around your destination safely and stress-free.

Conclusion

Traveling with a wheelchair may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With these wheelchair travel tips, you can plan your next summer vacation with confidence. The key to a successful trip is careful planning, packing wisely, and using the available resources to ensure comfort. When you are back from your trip, don’t forget to share your experience with everyone. It might encourage others to travel and explore the world.

But before you head for the airport, check out our travel mobility solutions and wheelchair accessories.