Traveling With Disabilities

Traveling with disabilities

Traveling with disabilities can be difficult. While airlines and hotels are supposed to make necessary accommodations, they aren’t always prepared to do so. Unfortunately, in foreign countries, accessibility regulations aren’t quite the same as in the U.S. and this can leave many passengers feeling frustrated. There are some things that you can do to make traveling with disabilities easier.

Visit Your Doctor

Visit your doctor before you make your travel plans. Make sure that it’s safe to travel and discuss coping methods for things like long flights or car rides. If you are on medication, have your doctor write you a refill for your prescriptions so you can get it refilled before you trip. In many countries you will find that they are severely limited in the amount of prescription medications they offer. Because of this, it’s necessary to always bring extra medication just in case there is a flight delay. Or if there are issues with your departure home. Furthermore, don’t forget to have your doctor provide you with a note. On the office’s letterhead, that discusses your condition, accommodations you need and medications that you take.

Call The Necessary People

Before your trip, call the airlines you are traveling, car rental places you will be using. Be sure to contact the hotels you will be staying at and let them know about your disability. Be specific about what accommodations you need when traveling. Make sure you call them back 24 hours before you actually travel to ensure that your accommodations will be taken care of. When you are at your destination, call the places you will be visiting to let them know what accommodations you need. Most places will be more than happy to help you as long as they have enough time to make the necessary arrangements for you.

Make A List Of Doctors And Medical Facilities At Your Destination

Just in case there are complications associated with your condition, you need to be prepared. Research highly rated doctors and medical facilities at your destination. Make a list with this information and carry it with you when you are traveling.

Allow Yourself Extra Time

Depending on the accommodations that you need, you should allow yourself extra time whether it be at the airport or going to a scheduled event such as a show or tour. If you can, avoid connecting flights. Often times, they are fairly close to one another and it might be difficult to coordinate what you need with both flights.

Utilize The Service Of A Travel Agent

Many travel agents have worked with travelers with disabilities. They can help you with your travel plans. As well as help you obtain the necessary accommodations that you might need. A travel agent can be very helpful, especially if you are traveling overseas or will be going to more than one destination.

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