By Ethan Godard
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Traveling with a disability requires thoughtful planning, adaptability, and a few key strategies to ensure a smooth experience. But for those new to accessible travel, the idea of navigating unfamiliar destinations can feel overwhelming. That’s why we turned to seasoned travelers in our accessible travel community for their best travel advice—real-world insights from those who’ve been there and done that.
Whether you’re traveling with a wheelchair, mobility scooter, or other accessibility needs, these firsthand tips will help you move through the world with confidence and ease.
Smart Packing Strategies for Every Accessible Traveler
Pack Light—It Makes a Big Difference
One of the most common recommendations from experienced travelers is packing as light as possible. A minimalist approach makes it easier to maneuver in taxis, buses, and small elevators, and reduces strain on your back and shoulders.
Pro Tip: Many travelers overpack, only to realize they don’t need half of what they brought. Laundry services are widely available, so packing just a few versatile outfits is often enough.
Essential Packing Tips:
- Use AirTags or GPS trackers on your wheelchair, scooter, and luggage to prevent loss or theft.
- Keep all medications and medical supplies in your carry-on—bring extra in case of travel delays.
- Carry a small repair kit for wheelchairs or scooters, including spare fuses, zip ties, tape, and tools for quick fixes.
- Invest in a phone leash to secure your phone to your wrist or wheelchair—preventing theft or misplacement.
- Bring a cooling vest if traveling to warm climates—soak it in water to stay cool for hours.
- Pack a microfiber towel or satin pillowcase—helps with positioning in bed and reduces friction for easier movement.
- Carry a lightweight bike lock—can be used to secure mobility devices when necessary.
- Tape over daily pill dispensers to prevent them from opening in your bag.
Booking an Accessible Hotel—What to Ask Before You Reserve
One of the biggest frustrations travelers face is booking a hotel labeled as “accessible” only to find out it’s not. Many properties misrepresent their accessibility, leaving travelers to deal with unexpected stairs, small bathrooms, or beds too high to transfer into.
“Hotels and Airbnbs lie about accessibility 70% of the time,” warned one traveler. Always verify details yourself.
How to Ensure Accessibility:
- Ask for real photos of the bathroom, bed height, entrance, and elevator.
- Confirm there’s an elevator or step-free entry—some “accessible” rooms are on upper floors without lift access.
- Request an accessible room with grab bars—if none are available, lobby restrooms may have better accessibility.
- Research the surrounding area—are restaurants, attractions, and transit accessible?
- Bring portable suction grab bars—not all bathrooms have them, but they can be a lifesaver when needed.
Pro Tip: Booking through Wheel the World ensures that your accommodations have been measured and verified—so there are no surprises upon arrival! By measuring 200+ data points for each hotel, you’ll be able to find something that suits your needs.
Navigating Airports and Flights as a Wheelchair Traveler
Flying can be stressful, especially for those with mobility challenges, but the right preparation makes all the difference.
Key Tips for a Smoother Flight:
- Request free seat selection for disabled travelers—many airlines offer this, but you have to ask.
- Confirm that an aisle chair is onboard before takeoff—some travelers have been stranded mid-flight when it wasn’t available.
- Use a hard-shell case for fragile wheelchair parts—store joysticks, footrests, and headrests in your carry-on.
- Take photos of your wheelchair before checking it in case you need to file a damage claim.
- Book TSA PreCheck or airport assistance to make security screening faster and less stressful.
- Switch to solid (airless) wheelchair tires to prevent unexpected flats while traveling.
Flying internationally? Always carry printed copies of your medical documents in case customs or airport security request them.
Using Public Transportation and Taxis in a New Destination
Accessible transportation varies greatly by city and country. Plan ahead to ensure you can get where you need to go without stress.
- Call local transit agencies ahead of time to ask about wheelchair-friendly buses, subways, and trains.
- Research accessible taxis—some cities require pre-booking, while others have Uber WAV options.
- Secure mobility devices on public transit using a bike lock—especially on trains where storage may be limited.
- Confirm elevators are working—some transit hubs have inaccessible platforms when elevators are out of order.
Staying Safe and Comfortable While Traveling
Comfort and safety should always be a priority. A few small adjustments can make a big difference in your travel experience.
- Use absorbent underwear or a travel urinal—in case an accessible restroom isn’t available.
- Bring a backup wheelchair battery and charger—getting stranded without power can be frustrating.
- Carry emergency snacks—long transit delays can leave you without food for hours.
- Know where the nearest pharmacy is—if you need medical supplies or prescriptions while abroad.
- Wipe down airplane seats, tray tables, and hotel surfaces—prevention is key for staying healthy while traveling.
- Have the number for your country’s embassy or consulate—just in case of an emergency.
Making the Most of Your Accessible Travel Experience
Travel is all about experiences. While challenges will arise, a positive mindset and a little preparation can go a long way.
- Be flexible—but always have a backup plan in case things don’t go as expected.
- Connect with other travelers—Facebook groups and online forums can provide real accessibility insights.
- Travel with an open mind—not every place will be perfect, but memories and experiences make it worth it.
- Pack your patience—things don’t always go smoothly, but staying adaptable makes the journey much easier.
Final Tip: Just Go!
While traveling with a disability requires extra preparation, the rewards of experiencing new places, cultures, and adventures far outweigh the challenges.
The best advice from experienced travelers?
Go for it.
There will always be obstacles, but with the right tools, mindset, and planning, accessible travel is absolutely possible.