by Kim Donahue, Disaboom

Accessible Hotel Rooms
Q: What should I find out before booking a hotel room?

A: First, find out how many wheelchair accessible rooms the hotel has.  Then, check how wide the doors are.  Are there wheelchair ramps throughout the hotel?  Do they have shower tub benches to rent?  Are there roll-in showers?  Ask the concierge if they know where to get a new wheelchair just in case.

Accessible Cruises
Q: What should I find out about cruise ship accessibility?

A: Find out if all decks are accessible.  Many ships have a water-locked ridge at every doorway; make sure those don’t impede access.

Note: Make sure to inform the doctor on board regarding your condition.  Make the contact ahead of time.  He/She can then be prepared with any medications or equipment in case of an emergency.

Accessible Flying
Q: What do I need to know about flying with a disability?

A:  First, find out if they have bulkhead seating.  Do they have moveable seats?  Do armrests adjust up and down?  Find out the bathroom access.  Arrive early to your flights; leave plenty of time for plane changes.  Inform the airlines of your disability and needs well ahead of time.

Wheelchairs: if you have an electric chair, make sure it’s the last thing to be loaded and the first thing to come off to decrease the risk of damage.  If you have foam batteries, you shouldn’t have any problems.  However, if you have acid batteries, they will need to be removed for security purposes.  Attach contact information to your chair.  Include a diagram and instructions on how to put the chair together.  Typically, your chair doesn’t count in your luggage allotment. 

If you have any complaints or questions, contact the airline’s Complaint Resolutions Officer (CRO).  He/She is trained to help with any problems that may arise.  All airlines have one available 24/7. 

Accessible Ground Transportation
Q:  What do I need to find out about rental cars and ground transportation?

A:  Does the rental car company have cars with hand controls?  Do they have swivel chairs?  If you are using a car with lifts, do the lifts lower all the way to the ground? 

General Accessibility Concerns
Q: Before I leave on my trip, what do I need to do?

A:  Wheelchair: If your chair breaks, think about having a back-up one available.  Bring tools with you for minor repairs.  Find out if there is a wheelchair repair shop where you are going.  Consider bringing an add-on power unit for your chair. 

•    Bring your own cushion to avoid pressure sores. 
•    Find out if there’s beach access if applicable.
•    Bring empty water bottles in case your urine bag is full. 
•    Consider purchasing travel insurance.  It can cover losses due to cancelled flights, damaged or stolen luggage, etc.
•    Have a medical card with you about your conditions and what to do if a medical emergency occurs.  If you have autonomic dysreflexia, plan accordingly.  Make sure the bathroom is accessible, and limit your fluids before and during the flight. 
•    Be assertive and direct about your needs.  Be empowered—you know what’s best for you and your body; insist that things are done the way you need them. 

The following is not to be used as medical advice but only information.

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