Things to Consider as You Plan Your Trip
Talk to your physician about:
- your general physical condition
- your need for immunizations
- your prescriptions for the time you are traveling
- non-prescription medications you should plan to take with you, (for example, pain relievers, antacids, a laxative, cold medications, an antihistamine, medicine to take in case you experience diarrhea, sunscreen)
- medical equipment you should take on the trip
- how to get medical assistance when you are away from home
- an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses
Talk to your travel agent about:
- means of travel that will accommodate your physical needs (train, plane, cruise ship, tour group)
- special accommodations you may need at any point in your trip (car rental, transportation within the airport, help with a wheelchair, special seating, special meals, etc.)
- arranging the timing of your trip so you will not become overtired while you are traveling
- what special assistance you can expect from the transportation company, hotel, tour group, etc.
- ask your travel agent about travel insurance
If you are in a wheelchair:
- have a maintenance check in advance of the trip
- take some basic tools and extra parts if necessary
- if you don't usually use a wheelchair but have trouble walking or become easily tired, consider renting a wheelchair to take with you as checked baggage (it may be difficult to rent a chair at your destination)
In addition:
- Be sure that you can manage on your own if you are traveling solo--bathrooms are sometimes hard to manage for the disabled traveler. Perhaps you need to have a friend or relative travel with you to provide assistance.
- Pack necessary items, such as medications, in your hand luggage in case your checked luggage is lost or stolen.
- If you are renting a car and require hand controls, find out where they are available before you leave home. Carry a placard indicating that you are disabled to display in the car. Find out how to get a temporary placard for the state or country of your destination before you leave.