Tips for Road Tripping in a Wheelchair

Updated on April 16, 2021
Tips for Road Tripping in a Wheelchair

The internet is filled with pictures of expensive luxury cruises and incredible excursions. But when it comes to seeing more for less, there’s nothing quite like a good old-fashioned road trip. But travel can be tricky when your car isn’t the only set of wheels you’re using. That doesn’t mean traveling in a wheelchair is impossible, though. In fact, our tips for road tripping in a wheelchair will help you have the time of your life on the open road.

Get the Right Vehicle

Half of a road trip consists of getting in and out of a car. Choosing a car that makes this task simple is essential for road tripping in a wheelchair. The easiest way to tackle this challenge is to purchase or rent a wheelchair-accessible van. Side-loading vans are ideal for road trips since they have greater trunk space for luggage and allow you to reach the driver’s seat.

Research Your Route in Advance

Spontaneity is the spice of life and one of the things that make road trips so great. However, you should temper spontaneity with intentional planning, especially when you’re in a wheelchair. This means looking ahead to see if a landmark or hotel you want to visit is wheelchair friendly. It also means looking ahead to check for rest stops and food establishments between legs of your journey.

Allow for Enough Time in Your Itinerary

A vacation ceases to feel like a vacation if you always feel rushed from one step to the next. As you’re planning your trip, make sure you allow for enough time to fully enjoy every stop on the trip while factoring in time to load and unload the car. Just be careful not to worry about following the itinerary too religiously. Remember: itineraries are meant to relieve stress, not cause it.

Bring a Loved One

As someone living with a wheelchair, you have probably already developed a whole host of tricks for managing on your own. But when you’re traveling to places you’ve never visited, you won’t know what to expect. Having a loved one with you will help you navigate these unexpected bumps in the road. Besides, road trips are all about making memories, and memories are always best when they’re shared.

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