People with disabilities often face unique challenges when planning travel.
For the 54 million Americans living with disabilities, navigating complex issues like travel arrangements, accommodations and accessibility considerations can be overwhelming, according to data from the Americans with Disabilities Act National Network.
However, according to Thrillist, the tourism industry is starting to take notice of the potential challenges and is taking steps to improve the guest experience.
How to use public transport
Many agencies offer transportation options for people with disabilities that are free or cheaper than renting a personal car.
In addition to these transportation options on the ground, travelers with disabilities can receive assistance in the air.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, airlines are required to provide passengers with disabilities with assistance, such as wheelchairs or other guided assistance when boarding, disembarking, or transferring to another flight, seating assistance that accommodates the passenger’s disability-related needs, assistance with loading and stowing assistive devices, and providing disability-related materials, such as the Bill of Rights for Airline Passengers with Disabilities.
Whether you’re traveling on the ground or in the air, make sure you plan ahead: consider using a travel agency that specializes in disability travel, check their refund policies, ask about reduced disability fares if applicable, and ask about insurance for damaged wheelchairs or lost mobility aids, Ability Lab recommends.
Meals and dietary needs
Strict dietary restrictions and regimens don’t have to stop you from traveling.
Terri Peña, a travel counselor for AAA, offers some tips on the AAA website for those traveling with diet-related disabilities.
Choose your destination wisely.
“Pay attention to where you can find the right kinds of foods,” Peña says, noting that Asia is trending toward dairy-free options, India has more meat-free options, and Italy has a wider variety of wheat-free options for people with celiac disease.
Develop local knowledge.
A web search will reveal resources to help with any destination and food combination, and if you use social media, you can connect with residents who have the same dietary needs and get some helpful tips.
Practice kitchen control.
Consider booking accommodations with a kitchen or kitchenette. Some all-inclusive accommodations, such as cruise ships and resorts, are known for accommodating special dietary needs.
Bring portable snacks that can be stored and carried with you, as well as any medications you may have, such as supplements or medications to treat allergic reactions.
Never be afraid to ask the kitchen to check ingredients or avoid passing on questionable foods: Always be safe, avoid regrets, Peña says.
Which attractions offer accessible options?
There are many places that offer accessibility options. Here are some of the most popular:
National parks offer the Interagency Access Pass, a free pass issued to citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. The parks also provide information about accessibility, service animals, and intellectual disability laws.
Easterseals said that while more theme parks are changing their policies for visitors with disabilities, there are still many that allow special accommodations.
SeaWorld San Diego, Six Flags and Cedar Fair all offer pass programs that give special perks and permissions to passengers with disabilities.
If in doubt, call the theme park to ask questions and review their policies.