Spring break is the perfect time to escape the daily grind, but for people with disabilities, planning a trip can come with unique challenges. Thankfully, with the growing focus on accessibility, there are now many tools, companies, and apps that make traveling more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone. Here’s how you can plan an accessible and memorable spring break adventure.
Plan Ahead for Accessible Travel
Preparation is key to a stress-free trip. Before booking, research your destination to ensure it offers the accommodations you need. Look for:
- Wheelchair-accessible entrances, pathways, and bathrooms.
- Hotels with ADA-compliant rooms.
- Transportation options that cater to mobility, sensory, or cognitive needs.
- The weather…we don’t want to ‘dampen’ an experience if we can avoid it!
- Local support services.
Apps and Resources for Accessible Travel
Technology can make your trip planning and execution much smoother. Here are some apps and platforms designed to assist:
- Wheelmap: A user-generated map that shows wheelchair accessibility for locations worldwide.
- AccessNow: This app provides accessibility reviews for restaurants, hotels, attractions, and more.
- Aira: Designed for visually impaired travelers, Aira connects users with agents who provide visual descriptions through their smartphone camera.
- Sunflower Hidden Disabilities Program: Airports, train stations, and other travel hubs recognize this program, which discreetly identifies travelers with hidden disabilities who may need assistance.
- Be My Eyes: This app connects visually impaired users with volunteers for real-time assistance.
- TravAble: A platform that helps you plan trips based on your specific accessibility needs.
Companies Specializing in Accessible Travel
- Able Trek Tours: Offers guided tours for travelers with disabilities seeking some US destinations, including wheelchair-accessible options and staff assistance.
- Special Needs at Sea: Provides mobility and medical equipment rentals for cruise travelers.
- Travel with Ange: BC-based agency with a sensitive approach and access to multiple autism and sensory friendly travel options.
- Travel for All: A full service travel agency, who specializes in customizing vacations globally for travelers with various forms of disability.
- Planet Abled: We make the planet, abled for everyone to travel irrespective of their accessibility need.
Tips for a Smooth Accessible Travel Experience
- Communicate Needs Clearly: When booking hotels, flights, or activities, specify your accessibility requirements. This ensures accommodations are in place when you arrive.
- Check Airline Policies: Airlines often have specific guidelines for traveling with mobility devices or service animals. Familiarize yourself with these in advance.
- Pack Smart: Include essential medical supplies, backup batteries for devices, and any documentation related to your needs.
- Use Accessible Transportation: Many cities offer accessible public transport, ride-sharing options, or specialized services. Research these before your trip.
- Request Assistance: Don’t hesitate to ask for help at airports, train stations, or other transit hubs. Many have services specifically for travelers with disabilities.
Safe travels!