For those who suffer from mobility issues due to an illness, disability or old age, they may not consider travelling a possibility. However, with the help of mobility solutions such as with manual wheelchairs or power chairs, travelling has become more accessible!
If you’re looking to explore various attractions in your own country or overseas, travelling with a wheelchair can be just what you need! Here are some things to keep in mind along with some tips for when travelling to certain parts of the world!
Types of Wheelchairs for Travel
When it comes to travelling with a wheelchair, you should be wary of the types of wheelchairs to choose from when you want mobility solutions while travelling. These include the likes of manual wheelchairs (that can either be self-propelled or transit/transport), and power wheelchairs.
Preparations for Travelling with a Wheelchair
One of the key factors to take care of before you travel is to check whether your wheelchair is in proper working order. You can avoid a lot of stress and hassle in the event it breaks down while travelling. It’s always best to remove any detachable parts of the wheelchair, and label the wheelchair with your name and address too while travelling too. If you are using a power wheelchair, then packing a small repair kit for the likes of pneumatic tires would be a good idea too!
Travelling with a Wheelchair on an Airplane
With manual wheelchairs, you have the option of purchasing foldable options that are lightweight which allow you to easily carry on-board with you on airlines as hand luggage. These are usual lightweight transit wheelchairs.
Power wheelchairs, can also be classified by the types of battery they use (wet acid/dry cell). Wet acid battery operated power chairs may be dangerous to transport on airlines and will require various preparations before it can be boarded. Most new models of power wheelchairs come with dry cell batteries that are safe to be carried onto an airline and won’t require too much hassle.
Cruise Travels with a Wheelchair
When it comes to going on a cruise, you should be wary of the types of boarding offered by the cruise line. If it is by tender, then you are looking at a small ferry carrying the passengers to the cruise ship and having them board. At this point, assistance will be provided however, it’s always best to inquire whether what limitations are associated with this type of boarding and what is indeed offered. In terms of docking, it’s much easier where passengers travelling with a wheelchair can simply wheel themselves or be wheeled someone down the gangway. In the event you are travelling with a power wheelchair, you will may be transferred to a manual wheelchair and the power wheelchair will be transported separately.
Whether you are planning to travel with a wheelchair by air or by sea, you need to ensure the safety of yourself, others, and your equipment. By heeding the above tips and insights, you can make sure that you can enjoy new sights and independence!
