Navigating transportation hubs can be challenging for anyone, but even more so if you have mobility issues. If it’s been a while since you traveled – like most everyone during the pandemic – here’s a little refresher to ease the way.
Are you flying? Then be prepared for security. You’ll have to undergo screening through advanced imaging, be hand-wanded and/or a manual pat down.
Loose clothing and slip-on shoes will make it easier to get through security and to show your prosthesis if needed.
You are not required to remove your prosthesis and you shouldn’t volunteer to do so. Screening involving a sensitive area may be conducted in private with a companion or individual of your choice.
Having a letter from your doctor or prosthetist or a TSA notification card is also helpful in case a TSA officer or airline personnel questions your disability.
For more information, visit the TSA website at: https://bit.ly/3hCq83p.
It’s always a good idea to arrive well in advance. If you are unable to walk long distances in the airport, call and request an airport wheelchair when you make your reservation. If you are traveling with your own wheelchair, let the reservation agent know what type of device you have. Passengers with battery-powered wheelchairs must arrive at the airport one hour prior to normal check in time.
For comfort on the plane, request a seat in the bulkhead row or an aisle seat. The ticketing agent or flight attendant should be able to help you.
If you are traveling by train or bus, notify the carrier ahead of time that you may need assistance. Visit their sites in advance to learn more about accessibility.
From Amtrak: https://www.amtrak.com/planning-booking/accessible-travel-services.html
From Greyhound: https://www.greyhound.com/en/help-and-info/travel-info/customers-with-disabilities
If you prefer help in planning or desire a guided tour, you may be well advised to seek a travel agent that specializes in accessible travel. Here are a couple of links you may want to check out.
https://easyaccesstravel.com/ (Cruise vacations and packaged land tours)
http://www.accessanything.net/ (Adventure Travel)
The important thing is to plan ahead so you are well prepared. And that includes making sure your prosthesis is in tip-top shape.
If it’s been a while since you’ve seen your prosthetist, make an appointment to have your components checked for any loose parts, cracks or other signs of wear and tear. You don’t want to deal with a breakdown while on the road or at your destination. But, just in case, do some research on prosthetic facilities in the area you will be visiting. Write down their phone numbers, web address, and hours of operation. Do this for at least two or three.
And be sure to pack extra socks, liner, spare suction valve, shrinkers and donning sleeves plus your charger if you have a microprocessor. Include antibacterial cream and band aids for abrasions. If your prosthesis is not waterproof or water resistant, bring along some plastic bags or to protect it from water and sand. A travel repair kit containing a screwdriver with interchangeable bits, duct and filament tape to repair strap or buckle breaks and 4mm Allen Key or T-wrench, for any adjustment you may need to make.
And when planning a stay at a hotel, lodge, or resort, request handicapped accessible accommodations when reserving your room. Speak with the reservationist at the exact location you are booking. Ask about the bathroom facilities and ask if they have been inside the room themselves. If the answer is no, ask to speak to the general manager or head of housekeeping. Also, inquire if the entrance is handicapped accessible, and if not, where is the entrance. You may want to think twice about booking a room where it may be difficult just to get in the front door.
A little planning and preparation go a long way to having a great, carefree getaway.