Travelling abroad if you are disabled can be a challenge, however planning for the trip can help to ease any travelling worries you may be having. Our blog post shares ten tips on what you need to know about travelling abroad with a disability. We go through how to travel with medication and any equipment you need to assist you with your disability, along with what to expect when travelling on a plane.
- 1. Make sure you have travel insurance, and your insurance company needs to know about your disability for you to be covered by them.
- 2. Check your airline if you’re planning to travel with medication as rules can vary in different countries. For example, you may need to provide proof that your medication was prescribed to you. You can contact your GP for advice on whether you need a prescription for your medication.
- 3. Do some research on the place you are planning to say on your holiday before booking to make sure there is disability accessibility there. Also contact the place you are planning to stay at to let them know if you need extra assistance.
- 4. Arrive early at the airport to allow plenty of time to check in.
- 5. If you have a wheelchair or scooter, make sure you check it in and attach instructions on how it needs to be handled. If there are any items that could come off, keep them with you. Some airlines disconnect the battery of electric chairs so you may need to help have it resembled when you land
- 6. Carry documentation that explains your disability and your needs.
- 7. If you need assistance with eating, using the toilet, or taking medication, you must travel with someone who will be able to help you.
- 8. If you need to travel with a service dog, inform your airline to avoid any delays.
- 9. If you have a hearing impairment, make sure you have enough spare batteries or tools to help make sure your hearing aid or implant is working correctly.
- 10. If you have a vision impairment, having a map that is in braille could help you navigate around. Also, having a coloured tag attached to your luggage can help you identify it better.
