Whether you or a close friend, family member or loved one are currently temporarily living with a reduced level of mobility – or else are getting used to a new chapter in life with a more permanent level of reduced mobility – then planning a holiday can add even more stress to a already stressful task. 

With this in mind, continue reading to learn how to plan an accessible holiday that is fun filled, but with safety and mobility at the forefront. 

Talk to Members of Staff

One of the most important considerations when planning your destination and the fundamental logistics of an accessible holiday is to ensure that the accommodation has everything in place and adequate facilities to ensure your loved one enjoys their time away. 

Having decided upon your destination, it is not enough to simply research each potential accommodation complex on the internet and readily believe what you read in the brochure. Instead, especially if your loved one is most comfortable and spends most of their time in a wheelchair, it is strongly advisable to call ahead and ask to speak to a member of staff. Luxury holiday homes like Greensleeves villa have all the amenities and facilites that will make the stay of your loved one comfortable there.

Plan the Journey and Pack Carefully

When tasked with the job of packing for a holiday, especially if your destination involves taking an aeroplane or boat as part of the journey, then planning and organisation are of paramount importance. 

Pay particular attention to medication and medical equipment and ensure everything is extra-protected in the suitcase. For more complex and expensive items which your loved one needs to use regularly, these should be safely packed in your hand luggage, so as to ensure they are accessible at all times. 

Consider Taking a Wheelchair or Scooter

Contrary to popular belief, it is entirely viable to take a wheelchair or scooter on holiday and even on an aeroplane – especially as over the last decade or so, such mobility aids are substantially more sophisticated and far more durable. 

Folding scooters and portable batteries are a godsend when it comes to planning an accessible holiday and there are several reputable and established suppliers, such as Mobility Solutions, who can source the best styles and makes of wheelchairs and scooters for the type of holiday you have planned. 

Take Out Travel Insurance

Particularly in these uncertain and turbulent times, travel insurance is an absolute must for everyone, but for those who have accessibility needs and issues with mobility, it is even more important. As soon as you have confirmed the official booking for your holiday, you should endeavour to arrange your travel insurance as soon as possible, and it may well be the case that additional forms may need to be filled in, which can be time-consuming. 

Check the excess you are required to pay and the specific stipulations of each potential policy, as it may be worth paying a little over the minimum to make your excess considerably increase. 

Familiarise Yourself with Routes and Places of Interest

Unless you are intending on spending the vast majority of your time in the hotel and its grounds, then another excellent planning tip is to research the places of interest in and around the local area. 

Not only will it be exciting to choose the best local attractions and tourist sites that peak yours and your loved one’s holiday interests, but you can also find out the number of a local taxi firm and the bus schedule for the area.