By Talli Osborne
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Travelling with physical challenges can require a bit more planning, but the rewards are worth it. As a woman with mobility issues, I’ve learned to embrace the journey, adapt with creativity, and always focus on the positives. Here are my top ten tips for making your travels smoother and more enjoyable:
1. Do your Research
Look into accessibility features before booking. Check for accessible transportation options, accessible accommodations, and attractions with accessible paths. And check if the city you’re travelling to has accessible ride share options.
2. Contact Hotels and Airlines in Advance
Don’t assume that accessibility features will be available—confirm everything. Call ahead to your hotel, airline, and car rental service before you book anything to make sure they can accommodate your specific needs, from accessible rooms to priority boarding.
3. Be Prepared for Unexpected Expenses
Make sure to have some money set aside for unexpected costs such as alternative travel, because even though you did your research, trains, hotels, etc. may not be accessible for you in the end, so you may need to make alternative plans which may cost more.
4. Be Your Own Advocate and Be Clear About Your Needs
When booking services or arriving at destinations, communicate clearly about your physical challenges. This helps ensure that the accommodations or services you need will be in place upon your arrival. Don’t hesitate to ask for what you need—you deserve the best experience possible! And, in the end, only you know what’s best for YOU.
5. Embrace Technology
Download apps that make travelling easier, such as Google Maps (for wheelchair-accessible and barrier-free routes), Uber or Lyft (for accessible rideshare options), and apps like “AccessNow” that let you review and rate the accessibility of public spaces.
6. Plan for Extra Time
Allow for extra time between flights, train connections, and all pre-booked activities. Sometimes accessibility-related delays can add time, and rushing only adds to stress. A little extra cushion in your schedule can help you stay calm and enjoy your travels.
7. Acquire Outlet Converters and Check Voltage on Mobility Device Chargers
If you’re travelling to another country, make sure you check if an outlet converter is needed and if the voltage on your charger includes the standard voltage of the destination country. There’s a good chance you may need a voltage converter to use your charger in another region. There’s nothing worse than blowing a fuse and having a burnt out charger when travelling. Believe me, I’m speaking from experience! This exact scenario happened to me my first day in Rome and it definitely put a damper on things.
8. Be Flexible and Stay Positive
Sometimes things don’t go as planned. Elevators break, ramps get blocked, or routes turn out to be inaccessible. Stay flexible and keep a positive attitude. A setback doesn’t mean the whole trip is ruined—adapt and find an alternative, whether that means taking a different route or asking for assistance.
9. Know Your Rights
Familiarize yourself with accessibility laws and regulations in your travel destination. In many places, the Accessible Canada Act (ACA) or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or similar legislation guarantees access to public spaces and services. Knowing your rights helps you advocate for yourself if you encounter challenges.
10. Don’t Overthink Things and Listen to Your Instincts
Sometimes, the biggest obstacle to enjoying a trip is overthinking the details. I’ve learned that while planning is important, it’s equally important to trust my instincts and not get bogged down by every potential challenge. If something doesn’t feel right, I listen to that inner voice and adjust, but if things are going smoothly, I try to relax and embrace the moment. Resilience doesn’t mean controlling every aspect of a journey—it’s about being flexible, going with the flow, and trusting that I can handle whatever comes my way. After all, the best experiences often come when we stop overthinking and simply allow ourselves to enjoy the adventure.
