Let’s face it, being a wheelchair user comes with day-to-day challenges. Like everyone else, wheelchair users need a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life sometimes. Even if it’s for just one day, getting away for 24 hours may be just what you need to feel rejuvenated and refreshed. I am a power wheelchair user, and I travel a lot, so finding ways to enjoy life with quick getaways is high on my to-do list. I want to share all my tips with you, so you can refresh and recharge as well. Here are my top tips to make the most of wheelchair accessible day trips no matter where you are.
Whether it is looking at art, enjoying the great outdoors, or spending time with family and friends, decide what it is that makes you happy. Think back to a time in your life that you really enjoyed. What were you doing? Who were you with? What were your surroundings like? Now that you have that fond memory, consider a similar travel experience with an accessible day trip.
The more you plan for your day trip, the better experience you’ll have. More planning and research will allow you to make sure your trip meets your accessibility needs. Keep in mind some accessible taxi and bus services require you to book a couple days in advance if needing their services. In whichever way you are planning to make the trip, plan accordingly and in advance.
Searching for activities to do in your area or within a few hours' drive can provide a starting point in planning your accessible day trip. Once you find an experience you would be interested in, look for a phone number and call the location directly. This will give you the chance to ask specific questions based on your accessibility needs. If a phone number is not prevalent on the page, send an email or search the site for the information you need. Be sure to ask and seek out your exact questions, not just “Is this event wheelchair accessible?”, but ask “Are there steps to get inside? Do you have accessible seating if I remain in my wheelchair? Are there accessible restrooms?” By asking specific questions based on what you need, you will be better informed on what to expect when planning your itinerary for an accessible day trip.
I follow several people online who use wheelchairs and love to travel. When I see that they’ve enjoyed a destination, I take a mental note of it. This allows me to know what locations might be accessible to me. I follow wheelchair users on social media and blogs. If they go somewhere fun and it looks interesting to me, I go there as well the next chance I get.
By only going for a day trip, not only will you be back home to your own comfortable bed at night Inside your wheelchair accessible home, but you will also save money. Day trips are much cheaper than a weeklong trip, so your money can go toward other accessible activites.
An accessible day trip doesn’t have to involve hours on the road or long lines. For example, who doesn’t love a picnic? Picnics are a great way to enjoy accessible day trips. This way, you won’t face an argument about where to eat or worry if the restaurant has an accessible entrance. I love finding an accessible picnic area, which can most often be found near state parks. But even if you have to enjoy your picnic in your car, that’s fun too and think of all the time you saved from going inside to eat. Instead, you’ll have more time for adventuring!
No one wants to spend the day with a grumpy, miserable person. Choose a day trip partner who you are comfortable with asking for assistance if needed throughout the day and be sure to thank them too. This will make your trip much less tense so all can share in the conversation and memories made, and enjoyment of travel during your day trip.
By planning ahead, knowing what to expect, and using this checklist, your accessible day trip excursion can be one of the best you’ve ever taken. And like I said, the trip doesn’t have to be far, and it doesn’t have to be expensive - it only needs to be wheelchair accessible and enjoyable. So, what are you waiting for? Dust off those wheelchair tires and get out there to explore on an accessible day trip!
Travel Blog Author and Accessibility Advocate
Cory Lee has visited over 40 countries and all seven continents as a wheelchair user. He also runs the award-winning travel blog “Curb Free with Cory Lee”, where he hopes to inspire other wheelchair users to break out of their comfort zone and experience all of the beauty our world has to offer.
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