Travel Tips for Family Members with a Disability

— by Nikki Puzzo

Not all families travel the same, but many who have a family member with limited mobility, a disability, or a wheelchair might not know how to plan or pack for a vacation. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, an estimated 25.5 million Americans have disabilities that make traveling outside the home difficult. Our daughter Stella has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, and here are some of the tips we have found to be extremely helpful when traveling, camping, or going outdoors with her.

First, we always make sure that whoever is helping us book our travel is aware that our daughter is in a chair, and to try to get as close to the front of the plane and the bathrooms as possible. This makes navigating the plane and passengers so much easier for everyone traveling around us. When we arrive at the airport, we always check in right away at the gate to let them know we have arrived, and position ourselves close to boarding. This allows us to get her on the plane and settled first.

We also try to include her in the trip planning process, as traveling can increase Stella’s anxiety. Show the child pictures of the campground, hotel, or city you’ll be staying at, and the sites you may visit during the duration of the trip. Giving them a heads up of the possible activities you may be participating in can prepare them to navigate the new experience with an open mind. Including your child in this process can alleviate the unknowns of what to expect and where they will be going.

When it comes to medical needs, leave room in your suitcase to pack safety products that you rely on at home like nightlights and/or supportive pillows. We also clearly label all medications and what they are treating, so if anything was to go awry while traveling it is easy to address with medical staff on site right away. In case of travel delay or cancellation, pack extras of medication and other essential medical supplies, and make sure you have important doctor’s phone numbers.

Be sure to research the vacation spot beforehand to ensure there is easy access for wheelchairs, and if necessary, notify the hotel that the room you are staying in may need to be modified of any walking obstacles like unnecessary furniture or rugs. Most hotels can also accommodate the need for an open access shower.

As for packing, we also like to stock up a goody bag and make a list together of items that Stella enjoys such as coloring, games on her iPad, stress putty, headphones and, of course, special treats like gummy bears, gum, and a fun snack. It is also important to pack an item(s) that your child finds helpful during times of anxiety or feeling sad (i.e., weighted vests, a special blanket, or stuffed animals). Share the items with whomever you are traveling with as

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It can be lonely out there; especially when you’re a single parent and the dating apps just aren’t cutting it. It can seem like everyone around you is meeting their significant other while you’re continually trying to find someone who is ready for a commitment.

I get it. I’m in that season of life right now and I am beyond ready to be out of it. Hang in there. I’ve got some fun and exciting things you can do by yourself. I know you might prefer to be doing these things with someone but use this time to focus on healing and dating yourself. Try these 22 things over the next few months and take notice of how you feel throughout the process.

1. Sign up for a cooking class. Google “cooking classes near me” and see what comes up.

2. Go for a walk and take your dogs. Listen to a new podcast while you’re walking around the block or listen to your favorite song. Sign up for a free workout app like Strava to keep track of your physical activity.

3. Take yourself to the movies. Is there a new one you’ve been wanting to see? Check out the times and locations near you, put some comfy clothes on, and drive yourself for a night out.

4. Order from your favorite takeout place and put Netflix on. Grab a spot on the couch and get cozy!

5. Take a nap. You heard that right. Crawl into bed, turn off the lights, and take a snooze. Your body probably needs rest more than you realize.

6. Get a cup of coffee and drive around town looking at houses with the music blasting. Have no agenda and nowhere to go. Take your time and just enjoy the leisure of sipping coffee and savoring the taste.

— by Meagan Ruffing