What to Know Before You Go: a Guide to Accessible International Travel
Before planning any international trip, there are some things you should keep in mind. I’ve highlighted some of the most common and important things in my what to know before you go: a guide to accessible international travel to make your accessible international vacation a success.
What to Know Before You Go, a Guide to Accessible International Travel: Things to Consider
Voltage and Outlets
One of the first things to consider, especially if you’re traveling with mobility or other medical devices that will need charging, is what the voltage is in the country that you are visiting as well as the type of plugs or outlets that they use. Check your devices to know what type of electricity they can handle and this will determine whether or not you’ll need a converter.
Many European countries (in addition to countries in other parts of the world) use 240 volts of electric, while in the United States, we use 110 voltages. If your device isn’t equipped to handle the difference, it will burn out. A converter will help to solve this issue.
Likewise, knowing the style of plug or outlet that is used will help you to know what kind of adapter to purchase. There are some multi-country adapters available that have the most common outlet types, however this will not cover all of the types of outlets used in other countries, so make sure to check what type of adapter you’ll need.
Sometimes, in certain countries, the reliability of electricity can be an issue. Always check with your tour operators or hotel to see if this will be an issue. You don’t want to be put in a bad situation because you couldn’t charge your mobility or medical device.
Passport and VISA requirements
In general, most people are aware that a passport is needed to travel internationally and that it must be valid for at least 6 months after your anticipated travel dates. However, there may be certain rules, depending on the country you visit, as to how many blank pages are needed in your passport. It’s always a good idea to check these requirements before you travel.
Some countries also require you to obtain a VISA (in addition to your passport) in order to enter. In some cases, there will be rules as to how many blank passport pages you will need in order to go along with your VISA. To check entry requirements for specific countries, go to https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/americans-traveling-abroad.html and click on the link and select your travel destination(s).
Be sure to also check how far in advance you’ll need to apply for a VISA as well as how long the VISA is valid. If you need to renew or apply for a passport, allow plenty of time for the process. The last thing you want is to have to cancel your trip because your passport didn’t get renewed or processed in time.
Know the Rules for Traveling With a Minor
With human trafficking being a such a big problem these days, it’s important to know the rules when you’re traveling abroad with children. For example, when applying for a passport for your child, both parents need to be present. If this cannot happen, then a notarized letter from the absent parent which provides knowledge and permission is needed.
Similarly, if only one parent is traveling with the child or if the child is going with other family members and neither parent is present, a notarized letter from one or both parents is needed giving permission for the travel and allowing the guardian on the trip to make medical decisions in the case of an emergency.
It’s also a good idea to leave an itinerary with the parent(s) and emergency contact information.
Understand How the Culture Views the Disabled
Each country and culture may have different views of the differently abled. While many countries are improving accessibility for everyone in an effort to be more inclusive, not all countries make this a priority.
Some, in fact, view having a disability as shameful and something that should be hidden away. While I’ve never felt in danger during my travels for having a disability, understanding how a disability is viewed will help prepare you for any possible uncomfortable situations (I.e., staring, pointing, rude comments etc.).
Plan ahead for how you would like to handle these potential situations and where to go or what to do if you ever feel unsafe. Having a tour guide in some of these countries can be helpful as they can negotiate awkward circumstances and remove you from the situation.
Be Aware of Each Countries Custom’s Rules
Each country has its own rules on what is allowed to be brought in upon entry and these can vary widely from place to place. In general, fresh fruit and vegetables are usually not allowed but this may apply to other food products as well. In some places, like China, Singapore and other Middle Eastern or Asian countries, certain medications are also forbidden (I.e., controlled substances).
It’s important to familiarize yourself with these rules ahead of time to avoid problems at customs, and possible penalty fees or denied entry. Ignorance is not an excuse and will still result in a fine.
Familiarize Yourself with Customs of the Country
I do my best to blend in with the local culture of any place I’m visiting. This helps not only to avoid being a target for scams and pickpockets, but more importantly, not to inadvertently offend anyone. Things such as gestures, tone of voice, the way we dress, and personal space are all examples of things that can differ widely in meaning from place to place.
Learning and understanding the norms of the country you’ll be visiting will not only help prepare you for what to expect but also make sure you’re respectful of the people of the country in which you’re visiting.
Be Aware of Dress Codes
Many times, American tourists can be easily spotted by the way they dress. There’s a stereotype that we dress in shorts, sneakers and fanny packs. This can make you an easy target for pickpockets and scammers.
I always try to learn a little about the typical dress of the locals so that I can blend in a little more. It’s an important balance of comfort, functionality and style. Similarly, if I’m visiting a church or other significant site, I always cover my shoulders and knees (as sometimes you’ll be denied entry if it is determined your attire isn’t appropriate).
When visiting the Middle East, dress codes are even more important. It is common practice for women to have their arms and legs covered. Although this may not be how you would typically dress, it can mean increased safety and is a sign of respect for the culture you are visiting.
Know What Your Travel Insurance Covers
It has always been a good idea to make sure you have insurance when you travel, but ever since the pandemic, it’s almost a necessity. In addition, to having this valuable tool, it’s important that you also know what it covers and how to use it in case you need it.
Does your insurance cover cancellation costs, pre-existing conditions, emergency medical evacuation, medical care abroad, COVID related costs should you catch it and need to extend your trip etc. Much of this information should be learned before purchasing your policy, but it’s a good idea to refresh your memory before your trip.
Standards of Accessibility for the Country You’re Visiting
In America, we’re lucky to have the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to set specific standards of what it means to be accessible, however not all countries have similar legislation. When this happens, what they define as “accessible” can vary widely not only within the country but from the standards that you may be used to.
To help prevent surprises, ask specific questions based on your needs and see photos so you can determine whether a hotel will be able to accommodate you. This also applies for any tours you may be booking. Find out about restaurants and public restrooms as well.
Restaurants, for example, may not have accessible restrooms readily available. In fact, publicly accessible restrooms may be few and far between or require a special key to get in. What a country considers an accessible restroom may also not be what you’re used to. In some countries, even if accessible restrooms are available, they may be being used as a closet and not easily accessed.
Knowing this information ahead of time will help you to be able to plan around these potential obstacles (I.e., planned bathroom breaks, knowing which restaurants you’ll eat at etc.). Some countries also have apps that will help you to locate accessible bathrooms which you can download before your trip.
Public Restrooms Are Not the Same as in the USA
Public restrooms abroad are not the same in the US, many of them may have a charge to use or not have any toilet paper available (so it’s a good idea to always bring some of your own). You can get a travel sized roll at Walmart.
Some countries also do not use toilet seats and instead use the squat method. The worst-case scenario, there may be no toilet at all and merely a hole in the ground. I have no idea why or even how these types of restrooms are considered accessible but I have come across them in my travels.
What the Rules for Service Animals Are
Traveling with a service animal can present its own challenges when traveling abroad. To help you prepare and be aware of any possible legal restrictions, issues with accessibility or cultural differences, it’s best to contact your destinations nearest embassy or consulate for information. They may also be able to tell you about quarantine rules and what documentation you will need to provide for your service animal to be allowed entry.
Also verify with the hotel you’re staying at to make sure they will/can accommodate your service animal.
Your veterinarian may also be helpful by providing any documentation requirements you’ll need (I.e., vaccination records etc.) as well as offering tips for safely traveling with your service animal.
Airline Policy on Damaged Equipment (and who to contact)
Traveling with mobility equipment can often be a nightmare for many. There are always fears about the airline damaging your much needed devices. Hopefully, all will go well and this won’t be an issue, but it helps to be prepared. Before you fly, know your airline’s policy on damaged equipment, how to report it and get it resolved.
This information can be found on the airline’s direct website under accessibility or special needs. Write down any phone numbers or titles of the people you may need to contact and carry that information with you during your travels.
Medication Recommendations
Whenever I travel, I try to prepare for every situation I can think of and I always take into consideration my possible medical needs. I carry a thumb drive with my medical records on them as well as the names and contact information for my doctors. I also follow these tips to avoid any possibly serious situations.
Always pack your medication in their original containers (so they can be readily identified) and in your carry-on luggage. If your checked luggage gets lost or misplaced, you don’t want any of your needed prescriptions in it. If you are traveling with any controlled substances, it is also wise to have a copy of the prescription with you.
Also check with your doctor, to make sure you’ll have enough medication (plus extra in case of delays) for your trip. While we’re on the topic of extra supplies, make sure to bring extras of any other medical supplies you may need (I.e., diabetes test strips, incontinence supplies, hearing aid batteries etc.) as the brands you use or even the type of supplies may not be readily available at your destination.
Plan ahead and consider how you’ll transport any mediation that needs to be refrigerated. This may involve checking with the airline to see what is allowed or if they have any means of keeping your medication cooled. Also, check with your hotel to make sure they can provide a small refrigerator for your room.
Vaccinations
Talk to your doctor and check https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/americans-traveling-abroad.html to know what or if any vaccinations are required before traveling to a specific country. Make sure you schedule these in advance, as some vaccinations cannot be given at the same time as others.
Similarly, check if there are any other recommended medications you take. For example, if you will be traveling in a malaria zone, it’s a good idea to get your doctor to prescribe preventative medication which you would take before and after your trip.
Find Out the Current Currency and the Conversion Rates.
By knowing what currency is used as well as the current conversion rates, you can help budget for your trip more effectively and avoid getting ripped off when converting your money. This will also help you from spending more than you anticipated.
Having a plan on where you will convert your money is also helpful. Typically avoiding airport conversion centers and going to banks or ATMs will get you the best rates. Knowing the conversion rates will also help you to take out the amount you need without having a ton of extra cash.
In some countries, credit cards are not widely accepted, so it’s always a good idea to have some local currency on you. Towards the end of your trip, make sure to prioritize spending the currency you have before you leave, so you don’t have to worry about converting it again.
Have a Plan for Staying in Touch with Family/Friends
Sometimes, what makes a vacation so relaxing is being able to “unplug” and get away from everything. However, depending on the length of your trip, you may want or find it necessary to stay in touch with family and friends back home. If this is the case, having a plan for staying in touch will be important.
Maybe you email every so often, as many hotels and areas have Wi-Fi available, but be sure to check prices and fees. If you want to call, check with your cell phone provider about international plans and possible extra charges. You can also provide loved ones at home with emergency contact information (I.e., the numbers of the hotels you’ll be staying in) so they can easily get a hold of you or leave a message in a worst-case scenario.
Airline Baggage Allowances
While similar, most airlines will have certain maximum sizes for baggage in both the carry-on and checked luggage categories. There will also be weight restrictions. Check the airline website to know what these restrictions are.
You don’t want to get all of the way to the airport and find out your luggage is too big or too heavy and have to come up with a plan b. A luggage scale can help you make sure you don’t go over the weight limit.
Knowing this information will help you determine how and what to pack. Be aware that for mobility and medical devices don’t incur a charge and can sometimes be carried on the plane vs put in the cargo hold. Always know what is allowed to help you plan accordingly.
It is also a good idea to refresh your memory on what is allowed in your baggage. A friend of mine forgot and packed a bottle of olive oil in her carry-on and when it was flagged at security, she had to pay an extra checked bag fee in order to keep it and have it flown back home.
Check for Discounts
Some popular tourist sights and even tours may offer discounted or free tickets to the disabled (and possibly their helper too). Check online at the specific sights website for pricing details and what is required to get the special rate. Sometimes this involves waiting to get your ticket until the day you visit vs buying online ahead of time. Often some type of proof of disability is also needed.
Know what Credit Cards Will be Accepted
Depending on where you’re visiting, not all brands of credit cards may be accepted. Typically, Visa and Mastercard are the best and most popular options. You may find that some stores may not accept Discover or American Express.
Whichever card you decide to use, check to make sure that there is no foreign transaction fee (which usually runs around 3%). This fee adds up overtime, so check to see which cards offer this convenience.
It’s also a good idea to keep some local currency on you for small purchases. In addition, some shops may not take credit cards.
Make Sure the Water is Safe to Drink
When traveling to other countries, you’re likely to encounter different bacteria than your stomach is used to (which can cause traveler’s diarrhea). Sometimes, the water may not even be safe to drink at all. Always check, and if in doubt, splurge on bottled water (and skip the ice in other drinks) to prevent any possible issues.
Whether You’ll Need an International Driver’s License
If you plan on renting a car abroad, make sure to check the requirements and see if an international driver’s license is needed (which in many countries it is). In addition to helping you avoid fees (if caught driving without one) it is also a recognized form of identification and is translated into 10 different languages.
Plan ahead though, because a US citizen can only acquire an international driver’s license in America. One of the places you can obtain one is at AAA (either in person at one of their offices or by mail).
Know What Language is Spoken
Depending on where you visit and what your background is, there may be language barriers when you travel. It is always good to know what the official language of the country you are visiting is (sometimes there are more than one). It is also a nice gesture to know a few phrases in that language (I.e., hello, thank you, please etc.).
Translator apps can also be helpful in overcoming language differences, but you must first know what language is being spoken. If you’re really eager to immerse yourself in the culture, you may even decide to learn more of the language before your travels. You can check out community classes or download an app to help you learn at home.
What to Know Before You Go, a Guide to International Travel Final Thoughts
While there are many things to consider before traveling internationally, following my list of things to know before you go: a guide to accessible international travel will help you successfully plan and consider key factors before your trip. Planning and preparation can sometimes feel overwhelming and a bit tedious, but I can assure you it’s all worth it when you get to explore amazing destinations. So, get out there and travel!
