Accessible Independent Travel… Possible or Not?

If you’re an avid fan of everything travel, you’ve probably read about the benefits of traveling alone. You have the freedom to do what you want, when you want, as well as the opportunity to really discover yourself. It can be a challenging but self-reflective journey filled with personal discovery and growth.  But is accessible independent travel possible? It can be a complicated answer… yes depending on your abilities.  

Is Accessible Independent Travel Possible?

When I was a little more able-bodied than I am now I chose to take a week-long vacation by myself to Savanah, Georgia. This wasn’t a random destination or decision. I did my research on accessibility and planned ahead according to my needs. At that time in my life, I was not on a ventilator and could walk independently with a cane. My endurance wasn’t great, but I had fewer challenges than I do now.

I chose my hotel specifically for its location, a block away from one of the accessible bus stops and close to restaurants. Having learned in my research that Savanah has free public transportation that doesn’t require climbing steps (there is a ramp that folds out onto the sidewalk and you can walk or roll right up to it). I researched sites I wanted to (and was able to) see and booked the trip.

Since I already knew how I was going to get from the airport to my hotel and had contacted the airline so I could get wheelchair assistance, I made an itinerary of what I was going to do on what day and looked for easy to get into restaurants nearby so I wouldn’t have to do excessive walking. Luckily, I’m a planner (the type A personality in me). I had a wonderful time exploring a new city that I’d never been to before. I also learned some lessons. 

Independent Travel on Airlines with a Disability

First, make sure you are aware of your airline’s rules and regulations. Since I could still walk independently, I was able to fly alone. If you are not able to evacuate yourself in the case of an emergency, most airlines require that you fly with someone that can assist you, however I have seen some people without any mobility be able to fly independently.

Cruising Independently While Disabled

Similarly, if you are planning to cruise alone, know what rules that specific cruise line may have. Most cruise lines will allow you to travel independently as long as you can attend to all of your daily care needs yourself without assistance (dressing, eating, toileting, etc.). Some, however, require you to travel with a companion.

Hiring Assistance

If you still want the experience of independent travel but need to conform to certain guidelines, there are some companies that allow you to hire someone to travel with you to your destination. This can be either a nurse or an aid depending on your needs.

Unfortunately, this service doesn’t come cheap though. Typically, you have to pay the airfare for the person to get to where you are, their plane ticket to travel with you, any hotel fees that are needed in order for them to travel with you as well as some sort of salary.

Make a Plan

Lastly, I learned the importance of planning ahead for the trip, including knowing the resources available or what I would do if problems arose. In travel, anything can and usually does happen. I needed to know where local hospitals were, have an emergency contact person, and be able to problem-solve on the fly. Luckily my trip went smoothly, but it could’ve just as easily gone the other way too.  

Travel Independently on a Tour

A couple of years later (2016) I decided to travel by myself again (well sort of) to Iceland. My abilities were starting to decline and this time I wanted to travel internationally.

I found a travel company that does group travel for people with mobility issues. If you are traveling solo, they offer to help find you a roommate and while you may be traveling alone, you are with a group of people. I was still walking with a cane at this point, but having more difficulty doing so.

The tour operator provided me with a wheelchair I could use during the trip as well as someone to help me push it. I flew independently but was met at the final airport by the group and from there everything was taken care of and fully accessible.

If I remember correctly though, if I had needed someone to fly with me, they would have helped to arrange that. Overall, I had a lovely time exploring a new country and meeting new people. It was a nice balance of traveling solo but having the support of a group. 

Final Thoughts On Is Accessible Independent Travel Possible?

While traveling independently can have its benefits, like getting you out of your comfort zone, it’s also important to really understand your abilities as well as your limitations. Have realistic expectations of yourself and for the trip. Plan, plan, plan.  It’s also a good idea to discuss travel plans with your doctor to be aware of any potential adverse side effects it may have or things to be aware of.

 And if traveling solo isn’t for you, that’s ok. Travel has so many rewarding benefits in general, so travel in a way that is right (and safe) for you.