by Dear fellow wheelchair explorers and travelers,
As a wheelchair user myself and one who loves to travel, I can say that most airlines have expanded their adaptability and increased accessibility when it comes to finding easier ways to meet our needs. Something I think needs more expansion is how we alone travel smarter. I remember my first trip alone, feeling very tense. I wanted to feel independent and if possible, not have to be escorted everywhere by an airport assistant. I’m thankful for that service and have used it many times so I don’t have to push myself up ramps and save my shoulders from feeling like they will fall off in my manual wheelchair! Through my past couple of trips, I came up with my top five tips I use while traveling to make it easier for me and to keep my hands free for whatever comes. I hope this helps you on your next trip and makes it a trip filled with ease.
Number One: (Online Accessible Help)
I travel on Southwest primarily so I have used this tool often when wondering what I can and can’t have with me when it comes to my wheelchair. Questions like: Where will they put my wheelchair after I get to my seat? And how will I get on the plane? All these questions can be found in the link below and the airlines have a phone number you can call to speak to a representative to ask any further questions in person. They also offer assistance with services like feeding supplies and liquids that are more than the normal requirements.
https://www.southwest.com/help/accessible-travel-assistance
Number Two: (Cup Holder)
I’m an iced coffee-loving girl. As soon as I’m done with security, (which can always be a handful literally) I’m rolling to the nearest coffee spot in the airport. Something I found early in my wheelchair use is I use both hands to push myself which leads to my coffee having to be between my legs. Let’s say I had one too many spills and cups crack in my lap to continue that carrying style. I found a very affordable and easy fit to my wheelchair that is used for strollers and other devices to carry my beverage. It is an easy screw-on cup holder that can be by my side and hold a good amount of liquid. It can be removed from the plane and carried with me or can stay on the chair and go underneath the plane and be ready to go when I land.
Number Three (Wallet for Everything)
Airlines have made check-in and boarding fairly simple. Sometimes you can do it all by phone, which I highly recommend, but often when checking in you get your paper copy of your ticket which leads to another thing to carry. On top of that, you have tags and stickers to hold onto when you board the plane and need it to retrieve your belongings. It adds up fast! Having a wallet on hand will help you keep track of all those passes especially as you change planes and have tickets for different airlines. Placing them in a backpack can be hard to manage and access if it’s behind your chair. Keeping it by your side or between your legs helps you keep it close, safe, and also able to show when needed.
Number Four: (Fanny Pack)
Fanny packs have made a comeback and I’m so glad! I used to be a hater and thought they looked goofy, but little did I realize that for travel it would be a lifesaver. I had my carry-on backpack, which was helpful, but always behind me and when I had to reach into all my things. Just to get a dollar bill or my ticket out drove me crazy! The fanny pack can be around the waste or crossbody which puts it by your side the whole time. Fanny packs come in many different styles. I have seen guys and girls rock this look for multiple occasions and travel is one of them! I have also enjoyed having this piece because I have medical supplies that I need to easy access to. It is easier to show security with a smaller bag. You can get fanny packs anywhere and they are affordable and comfortable for almost any body type.
Number Five: (Bathroom Accessories)
Ladies and Gentlemen, let me put something quite obvious but often ignored in this story… Airport Bathrooms Are Not Sanitary! When I score a family-sized bathroom I feel like I can breathe a little easier because I have the most privacy someone can ask for when it comes to travel. If the family restroom is full, I must enter the main bathroom with an “accessible” stall for my chair to fit in. How many times have you rolled into a stall and there is toilet paper on the floor and it sticks to the wheels? You use the poles to sit or stand just enough to do your business but everything else has touched that. I ALWAYS have the following things with me in my fanny pack or medical supply bag to make sure I stay clean: Sanitizer wipes, hand sanitizer, and seat covers. They must be travel-size, which can feel expensive, but it is worth it! Our hands are already touching so much with elevator buttons, pushing ourselves, and then rolling all over the airport. This can bring so much onto our hands, the most usable part of our body, so let’s stay as clean as possible!
I hope these five tips can help your travel experience feel smoother and carefree! Have a fantastic flight!
See more from Kayla at https://embracedbravery.com