Travelling the world is a dream for many people, but it can seem daunting or impossible if you use a wheelchair. However, with some planning, research and creativity, you can overcome the barriers and enjoy the wonders of different cultures, landscapes and experiences. In this blog post, I will share some tips and resources to help you plan your wheelchair accessible trip. I’m Dan McIntyre and I’ve travelled the length and breadth of Europe with my wheelchair, from a gondola in Venice to the Nurburgring in Germany and even stopped by the Police in Monaco.

Choose your destination wisely

Not all destinations are equally wheelchair friendly, so you need to do some research before you book your flight. Some factors to consider are:

• The accessibility of public transportation, such as buses, trains, taxis and subways.
• The availability of wheelchair accessible accommodation, such as hotels, hostels, apartments or homestays.
• The accessibility of attractions, such as museums, monuments, parks, beaches and historical sites.
• The accessibility of restaurants, cafes, bars and shops.
• The attitude and awareness of the local people towards disability and accessibility.

You can find useful information about the accessibility of various destinations on websites such as Wheelchair Travel, Simply Emma and World on Wheels. These are wheelchair travel blogs that provide comprehensive reviews and advice on accessible travel for both people with limited mobility and wheelchair users. You can also join online communities and forums where you can ask questions and get recommendations from other wheelchair travellers.

Plan your itinerary carefully

Once you have chosen your destination, you need to plan your itinerary carefully. You want to make sure that you have enough time and energy to enjoy your trip without exhausting yourself or encountering unexpected obstacles. Some tips to plan your itinerary are:

• Book your flights well in advance and inform the airline about your wheelchair and any special assistance you may need. You can also request a bulkhead seat or an aisle seat for more space and comfort.
• Book your accommodation in advance and confirm that it is wheelchair accessible. You can also ask for specific details such as the width of the doorways, the height of the bed, the availability of a roll-in shower or a ceiling hoist.
• Check the opening hours and accessibility of the attractions you want to visit. You can also look for discounts or free admission for disabled visitors and their companions.
• Plan your transportation options between different locations. You can use public transportation if it is accessible or book a wheelchair accessible taxi or rental car. You can also use apps such as Wheelmap or Access Earth to find accessible places nearby.
• Pack light and smart. You don’t want to carry too much luggage that can weigh you down or take up space. You also want to pack essential items such as medications, spare parts, tools, chargers, adapters and travel insurance documents.

Be flexible and adventurous

Even with careful planning, you may encounter some challenges or surprises along the way. You may find that some places are not as accessible as they claimed to be or that some services are not available or reliable. You may also face some cultural differences or language barriers that can make communication difficult. However, don’t let these things ruin your trip. Instead, be flexible and adventurous and try to find alternative solutions or opportunities. Some tips to be flexible and adventurous are:

• Be prepared for the unexpected and have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. You can also have an emergency contact number or a travel agent who can help you in case of trouble.
• Be open-minded and respectful of the local culture and customs. You may encounter some different views or attitudes towards disability and accessibility that may not match your expectations or preferences. Try to understand their perspective and educate them if necessary.
• Be friendly and sociable with the local people and other travellers. You may find some helpful allies or new friends who can assist you or enrich your experience. You may also learn some useful tips or insights from them.
• Be adventurous and try new things that are within your comfort zone and abilities. You may discover some hidden gems or amazing experiences that you would not have otherwise.

Fun facts: The Police stop in Monaco was because I was following the F1 track round at some early hour of the morning and coming off a roundabout the exit I needed was being guarded by a Policeman, so in a slight panic I went completely around the roundabout and started heading back the way I’d come, not noticing the no entry signs. I’d got about 50 yards when I realised it was a one-way street and at the same time I realised that 2 Police cars stuck their lights and sirens on and parked right up to me to ask what I was doing.

The gondola ride in Venice was very expensive but also amazing. There is a jetty with a lift that can take you and your wheelchair down into the boat, so wheelchair users don’t have to leave their chair at all.

Travelling with a wheelchair may seem challenging, but it is not impossible. With some planning, research and creativity, you can explore the world and have a memorable trip. I hope this blog post has inspired you to travel more and make new discoveries, whether that’s abroad or in your own hometown. Happy travels!