|
|
Tips When Traveling with a Disability
|
|
Before Departure
If you need to talk to your physician discuss items that are relevant when you travel. These include the following:
· Your need for immunizations.
· Your prescriptions during the time you are traveling.
· Non-prescription medications you should plan to take with you. For example: pain relievers, antacids, a laxative, cold medications, an antihistamine, and medicine in case you experience diarrhea.
· Medical equipment you should take on the trip.
· How to get medical assistance when you are away from home.
Talk to your travel agent about the following:
· Means of travel that will accommodate your physical needs (train, plane, cruise ship, tour group).
· Arranging the timing of your trip so you will not become overtired while you are traveling.
· Types of special assistance you can expect from the transportation company, hotel, tour group, etc.
· Ask your travel agent about the type of travel insurance best suited for your trip.
Pack necessary items, such as medications, in your hand luggage in case your checked luggage is lost or stolen. Carry your money, keys, tickets, etc. in a pocket. If you happen to misplace your purse or wallet or someone takes it, you still can reach your destination. Also, keep some extra money handy for tips.
If you do bring one suitcase, remember its type and color. It may be helpful to affix a colorful piece of yarn or a sticker to help you or anyone assisting you with easy identification.
 |
|
|
At the Airport
If you cannot see a monitor or find a gate at the airport, train, or bus station, ask a customer service representative or another traveler to help you find your way.
Avoid the hassle of crowds and obstacles in aisles by preboarding trains and planes. Packing only carry-on luggage saves time and trouble by eliminating a visit to the baggage claim terminal.
|
|
Wheelchair Travelers
Have a maintenance check of your wheelchair in advance of your trip.
Take some basic tools and extra parts if necessary.
If you don't usually use a wheelchair but have trouble walking or become easily tired, consider renting a wheelchair to take with you as checked baggage.
Be sure to measure yourself so you know what kind of clearance will be necessary to avoid problems when using a van.
It is important to make certain that the lift is able to handle the weight of your chair with you sitting in it.
Rental companies have hand-control vehicles available as well, so if you plan to do the driving, let them know.
|
|
Visually Impaired Travelers
Inform your travel agency, airline, and hotel that you are visually impaired. Tell those traveling around you as well.
|
|
Hearing Impaired Travelers
It is important at every step of your travels to let key personnel know about your hearing impairment so that proper arrangements can be made.
Starting with ticketing and reservations, be sure to inform whomever you are dealing with about your hearing disability. If possible, plans should be arranged in person. This allows for the opportunity of speech reading if needed.
At the boarding gate make the agents aware that you may not hear the boarding announcement and that you would like them to contact you when it's time to board.
Make certain you confirm the flight number and destination before boarding, as many times gate changes are announced only audibly.
Tell the flight attendant or driver that you are hearing impaired and request that any en-route announcements be communicated to you in person.
If you need ground transportation at your destination city, it is a good idea to have the name and address of your hotel written down so that there is no miscommunication between you and your driver.
At the hotel, it is a good idea to inform the desk clerk that you're hearing impaired, just in case an emergency arises. With your copy of the written confirmation in hand, go over your reservation to make sure you are getting what was agreed upon.
|
|
|
Service Animals
Inform your travel agency, airline, and hotel that you are using a service animal. Tell those traveling around you as well.
When booking your ticket, make sure to notify your travel or ticket agent that a service dog will be accompanying you in the cabin area. It is also helpful to provide the dog's size and weight. The agent can then assist you in determining the most appropriate seating on the aircraft.
Bring along the dog's health certificates with proof of vaccinations, and make sure you've checked out all international requirements when traveling overseas.
Harnesses, collars, and leashes can set off the alarms at security gates. One solution is to put your dog on a "sit-stay" using a long leash, while you pass through the security gate, and then call the dog to you. This will make it clear that it is the dog's harness which is setting off the alarm.
Try to avoid sedating your dog as drug reactions may differ at high altitudes and can lead to illness. Also, do not feed your service animal just before departure, especially on longer journeys.
Travelers with guide dogs qualify for pre-boarding. Once you've gotten to your seat, it is recommended by many that the dog's harness be removed. This allows the dog better ease of movement and avoids the harness catching on objects around the seat.
It is always a good idea, when making hotel reservations, to inform them of your specific disability and that you are being accompanied by a service dog. Even if a hotel or restaurant has a "no pets" policy, this never applies to service animals.
The owner of a service animal is liable for the cost of any damage which might be caused by their animal to an establishment.
Businesses must allow people with disabilities to bring their service animals with them, wherever customers are normally allowed.
|
|
|
|
|
|
About us
This site produced and maintained by J-Town Productions Ltd.
