Danger! Travel Season Ahead!

Spring is sprung, the grass is growing and the flowers are peeking out of their winter slumber. Of course you know what's coming next don't you? Summer vacations are just around the corner!!!!

I do believe I heard some groans from my reading audience? Let's face it, half the battle is reaching your destination in one piece. If you are driving, taking a bus or a train you might have the luxury of stopping your travel for a day or two or just resting in one of those cute upper berths we all envision on trains since we watched "North by Northwest". However, if you are taking a plane it can be an ordeal of living hell! Depending on your disability you might have to take many precautions to make it from Point A to Point B without checking into the nearest Emergency Department upon landing. Also there's the concern of your mobility aids making it to your destination in one piece. A bit of groundwork prior to your vacation can minimize the difficulties you might face.

Two websites you might like to look over prior to booking your upcoming vacation might be:

Air Travel Accessibility Regulations in Canada

New Horizons - Information for the Air Traveler with a Disability

These sites outline some of the regulations in place that you can expect airlines to adhere to, but do check with your actual airline to make sure they subscribe to these regulations. There's nothing like arriving at your destination only to find out that your wheelchair/walker/mobility aid is inoperable.

Some more hints for air travel:

1. Always pre-board! This allows you the time to get settled in your seat and any mobility aids to be carefully packed away. It also allows you time to get those necessary pillows and blankets from the attendants.

2. I would also suggest you turn those ceiling air vents off. Don't worry you won't suffocate. Many person's with disabilities have problems with muscles and the cold air from those vents don't help your muscles stay relaxed.

3. Resist the temptation of those complimentary alcoholic beverages, water is better for you, especially on long flights. Ask the attendant for a water bottle when you pre-board.

4. When booking your flight be very honest with the airline, explain your disability to them. Usually they really try hard to be accommodating e.g. keeping the seat next to you open, sometimes upgrading you to business or first class if they have the room.

Go To Page: 1 2

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic