By Marcia Frost
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Travel has been different for me as I aged and changed mobility. I’ve learned to plan and pack certain things that make the experience go smoother.
I discovered Clouds of Goods when I was looking to rent a lightweight power chair. They have locations all around the United States and in parts of Canada and Mexico. They not only rent wheelchairs of all kinds, but also have scooters, walkers, oxygen, hoyers, and many other things you might possibly need during your trip. They deliver to homes, hotels, and cruise ships.
- Zoomer Chair
I recently tried out the Journey Zoomer Chair through Cloud of Goods. It is wonderful. It folds down quickly and is easy to fit in a trunk and only weighs 31 lbs.
- Zoomer Chair
2. Conmigo Bag
Since I became a power wheelchair user, I have been nervous about traveling with a backpack I can’t see behind my wheelchair. At the same time, I need to carry things around—especially when I travel. I have been using the Conmigo bag instead and it is a unique choice. The bag has a built-in seat for me to sit on, then the bag hangs under my legs. Most important, it holds quite a bit.
3. Compression Socks
Compression Socks can keep your legs from easily getting fatigued when sitting for extended periods of time. They can also help prevent blood clots when you are flying. These are two brands I like:
- Vim & Vigr Most of the time, I don’t want to wear crazy designs on my socks. I just want them to blend in with my pants and shoes. Vim & Vigr has a lot of solid colors, even nude, which can blend right in. I also love that they come in nylon so I’m not sweating in warm weather.
- Motion I have ankle issues and, even after reconstructions, my ankles need support. I really like the Dr. Motion crew socks. They are soft, yet supportive. They are also inexpensive so you can stock up.
Don’t be fooled by the fact that there are all men wearing these on the website, I loved the fit of my size small, short sleeve shirt. Buttons are difficult for me and these snaps made things a lot easier. Snaps clothing is also UPF, which is fantastic for those like me who are sun sensitive. (Marcia is wearing a Snaps shirt)
5. Flip Belt
Whether you are taking a plane or driving to your destination, it’s a good idea to have a few things available at all times. For me, it’s my passport, a credit card, some money, and my phone. Flip belts are thin enough to fit under clothing and hold all these items. Bonus: since they are under what you are wearing, they don’t count as your personal item.
This duffle bag holds an unbelievable number of things and has a handle sturdy enough to go on my wheelchair. I also love the drop bottom. I recently put two pairs of shoes, a cosmetic bag, and a shaker cup in there.
This will probably be the best $10 you have ever spent. I use my wheelchair bag at home and on the go. I can move things around the house or keep things close when I travel. When I am flying, it’s easy to slip on and off when they take my chair.
I never travel anywhere without a blanket scarf. It’s great to keep you warm outside in the winter, but also big enough to cover yourself in the car, train, or plane. They are usually inexpensive, but you can get a cashmere or designer one. I have an assortment of solid colors and checkered ones. They can also be a fashion statement, adding color to an outfit.
I call this one of the best inventions of the 21st century: shoes you do not have to bend down to get in. I have begun to replace all my shoes with Skechers Slip-Ins. I was amazed the first time I tried them. You really can get your feet right in them without using your hands. They are available for men, women, and children. I love this scalloped one for travel because it goes with everything.
