Travel can be uplifting, interesting, educational, and fun—and challenging for someone with a chronic illness. By planning ahead, however, you can reap the benefits from travel and enjoy your vacation even if you have a serious medical condition. Check the services available for people with disabilities and/or special needs at airports, airlines, trains, buses, car rentals, and hotels. Confirm that you can bring needed equipment (e.g. oxygen, wheelchair, service dog).
Ways to make your travel experience as comfortable as possible (tips from the Arthritis Foundation and other experts).
Plan your trip well in advance.
- Check the services available for people with disabilities and/or special needs at airports, airlines or other mode of transport, car rentals, and hotels.
- Confirm that you can bring needed equipment (e.g. oxygen, wheelchair, service dog) Allow plenty of time to arrive at the airport (bus or train station) and between flights.
- Carry your medications with you along with a record of vital medical information (conditions, allergies, doctors, emergency contacts, etc.)
- Bring healthy snacks and drink plenty of water.
- Wear/bring comfortable clothes and footwear. Pack light—take outfits that can be washed and dried easily.
- Take aids such as heat and ice packs, inflatable neck/back pillows and foot rest, folding reacher, folding travel chair, sleep aids (mask, earplugs).
- Wear a lightweight fanny pack instead of a shoulder bag or purse.
- Invest in good, lightweight luggage on rollers.
- Plan plenty of rest breaks and don’t overdo.
- Stay in a hotel with a hot tub/spa.
- Exercise (stand, stretch, walk) en route and during your trip as much as possible.
- Ask for help when necessary.
Relax and have fun!
Sources for more information:
Know your rights
TSA Cares, or toll-free helpline: 855/787-2227
Traveling by Air?
- Major airlines provide aid and assistance to travelers with disabilities and those needing accommodation. For example:
- United’s Special Travel Needs section
Traveling by train?
- Check AMTRAK Accessible Travel Services
[https://www.amtrak.com/accessible-travel-services]
Traveling by bus?
- Most major bus lines provide accessible service and assistance.
- For example: Greyhound Bus lines Services for People with Disabilities
- There are also bus lines designed especially for passengers with disabilities.
Rental car?
- Many of the major car rental firms can provide vehicles equipped with special features for drivers with disabilities.
- For example: Hertz Car Rental Services for People with Disabilities