Useful Guide for Disabled Travellers

Traveling with some disability can really be a stressful experience for many. Proper information and adequate planning will, however, ensure that the disabled people travel with peace and comfort. 

Travelling by air for the disabled or with a disabled is a challenging task. However, proper planning and adequate knowledge of certain issues will make the journey much more comfortable for travellers. Listed below are some of the tips that can improve the travelling experience of the disabled and their companions.

Pre-travel preparations

Travellers planning a trip with disabled are required to make some extra efforts. To ensure that the disabled people travel safely and comfortably, the foremost thing is to consult a physician and find out whether they are fit to travel or not. This diminishes the chances of any kind of emergency while travelling and thus boosts the holiday experience. While planning a long holiday, the disabled must get prescriptions written by their physicians. This may act as a first-aid at the time of need and avoid hazardous circumstances.

Plan early 

Looking for last minute air tickets are is not exactly advised while travelling with disabled. Plan early and book with an airline that offers the finest services and facilities for physically handicapped travelers! Early bookings will also assist in netting the cheapest air tickets.  In case the travellers have made booking of flights through a travel agent, then they must make him alert about the needs of the disabled. One is advised to call up at the airport customer care at least 48 hours before the flight to request for any special service. Early booking of flight tickets also help the travellers to get the best seats with extra leg room for the disabled.

At the airport

To make disabled feel comfortable before boarding the flight, it is advisable to reach at the airport early then the scheduled time. For example, disabled Britons who have booked air tickets to India must reach airport at least 3 hours before the departure. This gives them ample amount of time to relax before boarding the flight and to complete all the security formalities. The solo disabled travellers need not worry as they can ask the airport staff for guidance if they feel distressed. They can also get the help from a personal assistant till the entry gate if they collect the ‘Escort Pass’ from the airline’s check-in desk.

Carry necessary aids

Disabled people travelling in the flights may need things like fluids, medicines, comforting equipment, etc. One just can’t rely on the flight crew for the same as they just might run out of stock anytime. The best thing is to bring along personal necessities which the travellers feel their disabled co-mates may need during the flight. The airport authorities do allow food, liquids, medicines and personal medical equipment to the disabled on the flight if they provide medical evidence for their condition. For example, the travellers with mobility disability carrying their own wheel chairs can ask the authorities to let them take it along with them in the flight.

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