Since so many citizens are now traveling with mobility devices, trains, cruises and airlines have many accommodations that make it easy for these travelers to move about freely and easily with their equipment.
Travel companies have made several changes to ensure that disabled travelers can enjoy their trip without worrying about whether their mobility equipment will get in the way of their fun.
Here are a few tips to make sure that your trip goes more smoothly when you take your ultra lightweight wheelchair.
Airplane Flights Some airlines are more accommodating for passengers in wheelchairs, while others still have antiquated systems.
Try to find an airline that will work with you to ensure that both you and your ultra lightweight wheelchair arrive safely.
If you are traveling within the country, put your name, address and phone number on your wheelchair so that they can contact you if it gets misplaced.
If you are flying internationally, limit the information you provide to your name to protect your private information.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure that you have assistance from the airline employees.
You may want to ask to ride your wheelchair straight into the fuselage, which will make it easier for you to board the plane.
You are then carried by an aisle seat to your place on the plane.
Before you leave your wheelchair alone, take apart and store the seat cover and leg supports.
These can fall off easily during trips, and they may not be recovered.
Cruises Cruises are typically the best way to travel if you use a mobility scooter or an ultra lightweight wheelchair.
They have elevators and ramps that will give you access to each part of the ship, and you will see that there are many other cruisers who are using mobility devices.
When everyone disembarks, you may have trouble going down the ramp to the shore.
If this is the case, the crew may be able to carry you and your wheelchair, or you can use a device that walks your wheelchair down the ramp.
You may also take advantage of tendering services, which allow you to take a small boat to shore rather than try to navigate down the gangway.
However, tendering is not provided by every cruise line, and it may not be an option during bad weather.
It is easier than ever to travel with your wheelchair, especially if yours is an ultra lightweight wheelchair.
Just take time to prepare for your trip beforehand, and make sure that your airline or cruise line is aware of your needs.