15 Things to Know About Travelling With a Disability
Traveling with a disability can feel overwhelming—not because adventure isn’t possible, but because the planning requirements are higher and the margin for error is smaller. Questions about transportation, lodging, equipment, and medical needs are not edge cases; they are central to whether a trip succeeds or fails.
The insights below are drawn from a Washington Post live chat with accessible travel journalist Andrea Sachs and wheelchair travel expert Cory Lee, founder of Curb Free with Cory Lee. We’ve synthesized their guidance into practical, actionable takeaways—curated for seniors, veterans, caregivers, and communities navigating mobility challenges.
Source transcript: Where to travel if a hospital bed is required? Your questions, answered.
1. Luggage Requires a Strategy—Not Just a Suitcase
Managing luggage while using a wheelchair or mobility device often requires planning beyond standard carry-ons. Some travelers use wheelchair-attached luggage systems, while others travel with companions who assist.
Another increasingly popular option is shipping luggage separately so you can travel lighter and move more easily through airports. For example: Luggage Forward and ShipGo can ship suitcases and bulky items to your destination.
2. Public Transportation vs. Renting a Vehicle Depends on the City
In some cities—particularly parts of Northern Europe and Japan—public transportation can be consistently accessible, with step-free boarding and reliable elevators. In other destinations, renting a wheelchair-accessible vehicle offers more predictability, especially where infrastructure is inconsistent. The key takeaway: research accessibility city by city, not country by country.
3. Airplane Boarding Is More Predictable When You Prepare
Many wheelchair and scooter users board planes using an onboard aisle chair, with assistance from trained airport staff. Assistance should be requested in advance and reconfirmed at the gate.
For a detailed, step-by-step overview of flying with mobility equipment, see our guide: Traveling on airplanes and cruise ships with a scooter or power wheelchair .
4. Invisible Disabilities Often Require Specialized Planning
Invisible disabilities—such as chemical sensitivities, severe allergies, neurological conditions, or sensory challenges—often require planning beyond standard “accessible” checklists. The right advisor can help identify safer lodging, food options, and travel pacing.
Resources to explore: Fora Travel – Accessible Travel, TravelAbility.
5. Protecting a Power Wheelchair or Scooter During Flights Is Essential
Reduce risk by removing detachable parts, protecting joysticks and controls, carrying cushions onboard, and providing printed handling instructions (including how to disengage motors and where to lift/push). While damage risk can’t be eliminated, proactive preparation materially improves outcomes.
6. National Parks Vary Widely—Use Official Accessibility Resources
Many people assume national parks are inaccessible, but accessibility varies dramatically by park. Before you commit, use the National Park Service’s official accessibility resources and then review accessibility details on the specific park’s website.
Official NPS accessibility hub: Accessibility (U.S. National Park Service).
7. Cruises Can Be Highly Accessible—But Confirm Doorways and Room Specs
Cruises can be one of the most accessible ways to travel because ships are designed for step-free movement across many onboard areas. Most major cruise lines offer accessible staterooms (similar in concept to ADA hotel rooms), often including wider doorways, roll-in showers, grab bars, and adequate turning radius.
Important: doorway widths and layouts can vary by ship and cabin category. Always confirm measurements and accessibility features in writing before booking—especially if you use a power wheelchair or need clearance for transfers or caregivers.
8. International Travel Is Often Easier With the Right Local Partners
International accessibility frequently depends less on public infrastructure and more on which tour operators and transportation providers you use. Accessible tour operators can arrange vehicles, guides, and lodging that would otherwise be difficult to manage independently.
9. Train Travel Can Be a Strong Alternative to Flying
For U.S. travelers, train travel can reduce equipment-handling risk compared with air travel. Amtrak provides additional services for passengers with disabilities, but advance notice is often required.
Official Amtrak guidance: Accessible Travel Services | Amtrak.
10. Small Airports and Regional Flights Can Be the Most Challenging
Regional airports and small aircraft may lack equipment for accessible boarding—even when assistance was requested in advance. Confirm assistance multiple times, arrive early, and prepare for last-minute changes. When possible, choose itineraries with larger airports and nonstop segments.
11. Flying With a power mobility device Is Risky—But Many Trips Still Go Smoothly
Seasoned travelers report that while damage can occur, most flights are successful when preparation and advocacy are consistent. Favor nonstop flights, arrive early, and request to speak directly with the ground crew responsible for loading your chair when feasible.
12. Inclusion Isn’t Only About Ramps—Some Places Truly Welcome Disabled Travelers
Cultural inclusion matters. Some destinations stand out not for perfect infrastructure, but for genuine hospitality and willingness to help. In the Washington Post chat, Cory Lee cited Thailand as a place where people were especially friendly and determined to include him in the experience.
13. Travel Insurance Is Not Optional
Travel insurance is especially important when you have mobility equipment, complex logistics, or medical considerations. Prioritize policies that address medical emergencies and consider coverage details for pre-existing conditions where applicable.
Reputable providers to compare: Allianz Travel Insurance and Travel Guard (AIG).
14. Even Advanced Medical Needs Don’t Automatically Rule Out Travel
Travelers who require hospital beds, hoists, or other advanced supports may still travel successfully—particularly on cruises or at destinations that support medical equipment rentals delivered in advance. The earlier you plan, the more workable (and less stressful) the trip becomes.
Travel Readiness Starts With the Right Mobility Equipment
At Living Well Stores, we believe travel should remain possible at every stage of life. The right mobility equipment—whether a travel-friendly power wheelchair, a reliable mobility scooter, or properly sized accessories—can mean the difference between staying home and traveling with confidence.
Living Well Stores is a nationwide online retailer specializing in power mobility scooters, power wheelchairs, and lift recliners—serving seniors, veterans, caregivers, and assisted living communities with fast delivery and local in-home service across all 50 states. When your equipment is dependable, appropriately fitted, and travel-ready, planning shifts from “Can I go?” to “Where next?”
Explore more travel and accessibility articles here: Traveling with Mobility Devices (Living Well Stores Blog) .
