Planning an Accessible Road Trip: Everything You Need to Know
Planning a road trip when you or someone you know has a disability can take extra time and effort, but that shouldn’t keep you from exploring. This guide provides tips for an accessible road trip, common accessible destinations and attractions, and an accessible road trip checklist, so you can plan your travels.
Why Choose a Wheelchair Accessible Road Trip
Unfortunately, mobility aid damage (wheelchairs, crutches, etc.) during flights can be common, leading many to prefer road trips over flying. While the trip may take longer, there are a few reasons you may want to choose a wheelchair accessible road trip and a few perks to this mode of travel as well.
- Comfort: For people with disabilities, a road trip in a wheelchair accessible vehicle can be more comfortable due to the vehicle's accessibility and the ability to stay in one’s wheelchair while traveling.
- Flexibility: Road trips offer more flexibility with timing and schedules, allowing for stops to take care of medical needs, visit attractions, or rest between stints on the road.
- Cost-effective: Depending on the distance and duration, road trips can be more cost-effective than other forms of travel.
Essential Tips for Planning a Wheelchair Accessible Road Trip
Consider these tips when planning a wheelchair accessible road trip:
Research Accessible Destinations and Attractions
Before hitting the road, research wheelchair accessible destinations and attractions. Our article, "10 Wheelchair Accessible Destinations Across the U.S.," can help you plan your trip.
Finding Wheelchair Accessible Lodging and Facilities
Wheelchair accessible lodging ensures you have a comfortable place to rest and relax during your road trip. A wheelchair accessible hotel room should have features like:
- Entrance and Layout: Widened doorways and clear pathways for easy maneuvering with a mobility aid.
- Bathroom Accessibility: Facilities such as roll-in showers, grab bars, and a lowered sink.
- Room Features: Lowered furniture, open bed frames, and lowered controls for light switches and the thermostat.
Planning Accessible Routes and Transportation
When planning your accessible road trip, it’s important to consider both your destinations and how you’ll travel between them. If you don’t have a wheelchair accessible vehicle, you can rent a wheelchair van or SUV from your local BraunAbility dealer. Your local dealer will offer a variety of wheelchair accessible vehicles tailored to different needs. You can select the vehicle that suits your trip best and return it to the dealer once your trip is complete.
Top Accessible Road Trip Destinations in the U.S.
When planning your road trip destinations, consider the type of experience you want. Whether you’re heading to an amusement park, the beach, or historic landmarks, researching accessibility is key.
Our article, "Top 10 Accessible Destinations Across the U.S.," outlines some of the most accommodating cities and attractions to help you get some ideas. Though accessibility isn’t as universal as we’d like, you’ll likely find some accessible experiences in nearly every destination, including:
- Exhibitions: Places like zoos, aquariums, or museums may be ideal for people with mobility challenges.
- Amusement Parks: Many amusement parks have accessible rides and wheelchair rentals for people with disabilities.
- National Parks: While accessibility varies, some national parks offer accessible trails and equipment like all-terrain wheelchairs.
- Beaches: Many beaches offer beach chairs and accessible mats to ensure accessibility for beachgoers with disabilities. For beach trip planning advice, check out Cory Lee’s guide to accessible beaches.
- Live Shows: Whether you want to see a concert or a theatrical show, you can likely find a variety of performances at local theaters in the cities you visit on your road trip.
Additional Considerations
- Accessible Parking: Bring your wheelchair accessible parking placard to ensure accessible parking at your destinations.
- Medications and Medical Supplies: Pack necessary medications and medical supplies, including extras in case of unexpected delays or emergencies.
- Accessibility Information at Attractions: Many attractions provide accessibility maps indicating accessible pathways, restrooms, and quiet areas.
- Wheelchair Rentals: Confirm if attractions offer wheelchair rentals for visitors who may need a wheelchair for longer distances.
- Dining Options: Use Google Maps or accessibility apps to locate restaurants with accessible entrances, bathrooms, and seating arrangements.
- Peak Season Travel: Many people travel during peak seasons like summer or winter breaks. However, traveling just before or after these times during the off-peak season can mean less crowded destinations, making it easier to navigate for people with disabilities.
- Weather Conditions: If you have a disability that makes you sensitive to temperature, or if you are traveling with medical equipment that is sensitive to outdoor conditions, consider the weather in your chosen destinations when planning your trip.
Making the Most of Your Wheelchair Accessible Road Trip
Whether you're exploring a big city, going camping, or even flying, following some simple tips can set you up for travel success. Remember, you can contact your local BraunAbility dealer today to learn more about wheelchair accessible vehicle rentals. Additionally, check out our related articles on wheelchair accessible travel to start planning your next adventure.
