Air Travel: Broken Parts, Broken Hearts

For most folks in wheelchairs, the idea of air travel is a bit daunting. Immediately following my spinal cord injury, I remember hearing airline horror stories about damaged or lost wheelchairs, airplane accidents (not crashes but bowel/bladder problems) and poor interactions with airplane and airport staff. 

In my 14 years of flying I've only had one bad incident, which took place last September. Delta Airlines dinged up my wheelchair (pictured above). Not bad, but bad enough to irritate. I'm not sure what happened from the time I left my chair, to the time it was returned to me, but someone did something. And it was a brand new, one-week-old, $2600 wheelchair... still had that new chair smell. Unfortunately I was in a hurry to get to my destination and ended up avoiding the whole complaint process. But this incident did get me thinking about how airlines handle our only source of mobility. In essence... our legs. 

Now before I talk about what to do in the event an airlines damages your wheels, I have to stress that this type of damage doesn't happen every time someone with a wheelchair travels in an airplane, but... it does occasionally happen. That said, the likelihood of having your wheelchair (or other assistive device) damaged by an airline should NOT put you off flying or traveling. You should, however, educate yourself about airline practices and take the necessary precautions and actions.

Your Passenger Rights

If you have a disability and are flying on a U.S. airline, you have certain rights. The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) developed in 1986, lays out the rights guaranteed to all passengers with disabilities.  United Spinal Association's Accessible Air Travel Guide is another great resource resource for air travel and disability and will answer many questions that you have about flying the friendly skies. Delta airlines even has a downloadable brochure entitled Traveling With Disabilities.  It's just a good idea to familiarize yourself with these rights before traveling. For those interested in reading the official ACAA document, you can find it here (ACAA 14 CRF Part 382).

Wheelchair Stowage

Alright, let's finally get to the point of this post: stowage (or the latin term airlinus aggrivatae).  There are two types of stowage: Onboard stowage and cargo compartment (checked luggage) stowage. The latter is the most common form of wheelchair stowage, although there are instances in which wheelchairs can be stowed on the aircraft.

• Onboard (Priority) Stowage: Every airline has policies and procedures pertaining to stowing your wheelchair on the aircraft. Here are the basic guidelines for most on-aircraft stowage:

1. Must be a folding wheelchair
2. One wheelchair per flight
3. Stowage bin is on a first come, first serve basis
4. Wheelchairs or other assistive devices take stowage bin priority over other luggage
5. Must meet the size requirements for the stowage space - contact the airline in advance to see if your chair meets the size requirements. 

When I was first paralyzed, I spoke to several people (also paralyzed) who told me I shouldn't fly unless the airline allowed me to store my chair in the plane's stowage space. In all my years of air travel, I've never stowed my chair in the main aircraft area. My chair has always been stowed below in the cargo stowage area. I've also never seen this "onboard" stowage compartment, although I know several aircrafts have one. Maybe it's right next to the refreshment cart or (possibly) the compartment where they keep the mythical airline unicornt. In any case, once you have your flight number, contact the airline to determine if your chair can fly with you. If it can (and if your chair meets the three quidelines) then request the space as soon as you can. Most airlines' websites have a brief description regarding onboard stowage and it's FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE. Here are few: Delta , American Airlines, Continental, U.S. Airways (could not find onboard stowage information), JetBlue. Southwest Airlines has a blank webpage regarding any accessibility info.  For more information on priority stowage, see the ACAA Guidelines: 14 C.F.R. §382.123.  

• Cargo Compartment (Luggage) Stowage: In the event that a wheelchair doesn't conform to the requirements of onboard stowage (i.e. Too much junk in the trunk), the chair must be stowed down below... just like Leonardo DiCaprio in "Titanic". Cargo stowage is the common scenario for individuals with non-folding (rigid frame) manual wheelchairs or power chairs. Here are some guidelines for cargo compartment stowage on most aircrafts:

1. To be used when wheelchair measurements and type don't permit stowage onboard the aircraft
2. To be used when onboard stowage space is occupied
3. Must be given priority stowage over other baggage and cargo
4. Applicable wheelchairs must be taken/returned as close to the aircraft door as possible
5. Applicable wheelchairs must be the first items retrieved from the baggage compartment to ensure a prompt return to the passenger
6. Applicable wheelchairs must be gate checked (with gate claim tag attached)

Power chairs must also be stowed underneath the plane. For more information on stowage for power chairs, see the ACAA Guidelines:  14 C.F.R. §382.127.  Depending upon the type of chair and assistance needed (ex: airport personnel required for transport to aircraft) some folks will check their power chairs at main ticket counter, rather than gate checking their chairs. If you aren't inclined to check your chair as luggage and have airport staff wheel you to the plane, you can gate check your chair and leave it near the aircraft door for pickup. Again, most airlines' websites have a brief description regarding cargo compartment stowage. Here are few: Delta, American Airlines, Continental, U.S. Airways, JetBlue. For more information of general cargo stowage, see the ACAA Guidelines: 14 C.F.R. §382.125.

                      

Stowage Issues

Now that you know your rights and how wheelchairs can be stowed during flight, it's time to talk about stowage issues. The most obvious issue is onboard (priority) stowage for rigid manual chairs and power chairs. Unless you have a folding chair, you aren't likely to store your wheelchair onboard the aircraft. I have a rigid frame chair, which doesn't fold. Therefore, I cannot store my plane in the priority stowage bin. I have no choice but to have my baby stowed in the cargo compartment. If you have a power chair, you definitely won't be able to stow your baby on board. The next big stowage issue, of course, relates to the safety of the merchandise. Will your wheelchair be stored properly and securely? In most instances... yes. But damage continues to occur, which means someone isn't doing their job. And let's face it: most baggage handlers don't realize how critical it is to maintain the integrity and functionality of a wheelchair because they don't use on themselves. To them, it's just another piece of luggage, and we've all seen baggage handlers toss suitcases around like juggling pins.

In 2006, the National Center for Accessible Transportation (Oregon State University) performed a study that addressed common wheelchair stowage issues in the hopes of finding solutions.  The study was done in conjunction with several meetings with airline companies, wheelchair manufacturers and applicable governing agencies. Several issues were discussed, including:

• Wheelchair Issues: Some wheelchairs are easier to stow than others, due issues relating to chair size, shape and accessories.
• Aircraft Issues: Some cargo doors and stowage spaces aren't big enough to accommodate some wheelchairs. 
• Loading Issues: In many instances, the elevators or conveyor belts used to load wheelchairs are incompatible or unavailable. 
• Passenger Issues: Many passengers don't know their chairs (or the potential problems that could arise in handling/loading). Passengers also don't realize that others are unfamiliar with their chairs. YES! YOU NEED TO KNOW YOUR CHAIR SO THAT YOU CAN ALERT OTHERS TO POTENTIAL ISSUES (EX: PARTS THAT CAN FALL OFF)! Hip guards anyone?
• Communication Issues: Passengers and airport personnel aren't communicating. You have to be an advocate and let the airlines know your specific needs. Especially when it comes to handling your wheels. For example, if your chair doesn't collapse, you have to let airport staff know. Not everyone is as familiar with your chair as you are. 

The consensus of the study was that further collaboration or regulation must take place to address the stowage issue by launching a plan that includes:

• Improvements in transportability of wheelchairs
• Better training and procedures for baggage handlers
• Better passenger input on special requirements for their chairs
• Agreement on the part of airlines to some standardization of procedures

While no "official" regulations or practices have been implemented, the airlines are at least aware of the issues involving wheelchair handling and stowage. Does this give you peace of mind? Maybe not. And that's why it's imperative that you do what you can to A) ensure that your chair is taken of and B) alert the responsible parties whenever your chair is damaged.

There's also the question of liability. Are the airlines responsible for damages? Yes, but in some instances you may have to prove that damages were caused by the airline. That's why taking a photo is a good idea. Some airlines may have you sign a liability waiver. DON'T DO IT! While some airlines do indeed have baggage liability limits, your wheelchair isn't baggage. And that's a very key differentiation between luggage and assistive devices. Different rules apply for assistive devices. Another key differentiation is fees. While many airlines charge for carry-on luggage, they cannot charge you extra for assistive devices. This includes both onboard and cargo compartment stowage. Simply put: airlines cannot charge you for checking your chair. 

Preventive Measures

Knowing full well that once your chair leaves your sight, it's in fate's hands -- is there anything you can do to prevent damage during air travel? Yes and no. If some numnuts baggage handler or airport employee isn't careful (or up to speed on proper protocol for wheelchair stowage) then you (and your wheelchair) are S.O.L. That's trust being put to the ultimate test. So, what can you do to prevent damage to your chair?

• Make sure you remove any parts that may fall off during stowage. This includes anti-tip bars, seat cushions (I always sit on my cushion during the flight), hip guards. I usually place these items in my carry on bag. 
• For chairs with batteries, make sure your battery is labelled "non-spillable" by the manufacturer. If your battery is spillable it may be removed by the airline and separately packaged/stowed... UNLESS it is securely attached to a chair that can be stowed UPRIGHT. If your battery leaks, you won't be able to stow it on the plane. 
• Supply instructions for handling your wheelchair. This includes how to dismantle or fold the chair as well as the weight. Airlines are not expected to know how your chair operates, so I'd suggest giving them a written (or at the very least verbal) explanation of how to handle your wheels. Some people like to attach the instructions to the chair. Also, warn them if your chair is over 50 lbs. Remember, the heavier the chair, the harder to carry and the more likely it will or could be dropped. 
• Take a photo of your chair before boarding your flight. I'd focus on the frame and wheel rims/spokes. This is ammo in case the airline contests the damage. 
• Always bring your necessary wheelchair toolkit and tire repair supplies... just in case. 
• Coordinate with airport personnel and those assisting you. Make sure the airline knows how important the chair is and how damage can severely affect your mobility. Communication is key!
• Know the size and weight of your chair. Better yet, research the aircraft and know the size of the stowage compartment requirements. Most airlines say they can handle all sizes, but it's good to know what size restrictions certain airlines may have. Contact your airline before your flight to confirm that your chair will fit in the aircraft's stowage area. You can also check the airline's website. Some carriers, like Delta, have their cargo dimensions listed online:

• Travel with an old wheelchair. I always bring my "travel chair" with me on my journeys because it can handle more aggressive handling and terrain. Most people will go through a few wheelchairs, depending on the severity of their disability. Don't throw away or give away old chairs, unless of course they're completely fubared. Always keep your old wheelchair for travel. 
• Store your chair in a protective container. The company Haseltine Systems Incorporated makes two storage units for both folding and non-folding/motorized chairs. These containers, while good at protecting your wheels, are a bit of a burden in terms of additional travel gear. You may need to have the destination airport hold your container for the duration of your stay. 

They Done Broke It... Now What?

One of my friends always takes of photo (pictured above) of her wheelchair before boarding the plane. That way, if the baggage handler screws up and breaks her chair, she can show the before photo to the airline and get them to fix her chair. Not a bad idea. Bottom Line: If they broke it, they fix it or replace it. The airlines are responsible for the safety and integrity of your wheels. In the event that your chair ends up looking much different than it did before your departure, you should perform the following steps:

• STEP ONE: Inspect the chair for any damage and make notes
• STEP TWO: Contact the Complaints Resolution Officer/Official (CRO). CROs are located at all airports and/or can be contacted after-the-face. Ideally, it's best to talk to someone while the damage is still fresh. Don't give the airlines any reason plead innocent. In other words, don't continue with your vacation, run the risk of additional damage and then contact the airlines.
• STEP THREE: Fill out a written statement (usually provided by the CRO) regarding equipment damage. This statement should be provided at the airport or sent to the passenger within 10 days of the complaint. 
• STEP FOUR: If no statement is provided, and/or the airline in uncooperative, file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).  

            U.S. Department of Transportation

            Aviation Consumer Protection Division, C-25

            400 7th Street, SW

            Washington, DC 20590

            (202) 366-2220

            (202) 366-0511 (TTY) 

            airconsumer@ost.dot.gov

The airlines should respond quickly and appropriately to your needs. If you are traveling on a foreign air carrier, you should still meet with that airline's CRO to resolve any issues. Again, prevention is the best course of action. So make sure that all removable accessories are secure before handing over your wheels to the airline/airport personnel. 

In some instances, the airlines will perform an inspection of your chair, before and after the flight. Below is a photo from my friend's chair during a flight on Southwest Airlines. Southwest does a visual inspection of the chair before it is taken into custody (for the duration of the flight). It's always a good idea to make sure that your airline performs this inspection. Like Otis Redding once said: "I want Se-Cur-i-Teee, Yeeaaahhh". 

Creative Stowage

Okay, I just added this one because I've had experiences traveling in very small planes. Puddle-jumpers that have no stowage compartments for wheelchairs. Tropic Air, for example, is a small airline that transports passengers from mainland Belize to the nearby island of Amergris Caye. While traveling on Tropic Air's flying bus, I was able to (for the first time in my entire air travel history) stow my chair on the plane. Actually, I disassembled my chair and placed on the floor in front of me. No straps or stowage bins. Just a pile of wheels and a frame on top. Safe? Probably not. Adventurous? You damn right. I'm sure this breaks some type of aviation regulation, but when traveling abroad... sometimes you gotta think outside the stowage bin.

Preparing to board Tropic Air

Tropic Air Onboard Wheelchair Stowage

So there you have it. Wheelchair stowage. Most likely, a lot to take in... especially for one blog post. But I think it's an issue that prevents many from flying. Airlines and government agencies are getting better about addressing the stowage issue, but there's still a lot that needs to be done. And that's where you, the now newly educated about wheelchair stowage traveler can help: If an airline damages your wheels, take appropriate action. Being silent (like I was... yeah, yeah I know "roll the roll" Stan) doesn't help anyone, including the airline industry. Make waves for change. Finally, when traveling abroad, just remember that it's always important to maintain the functionality of your assistive devices. Better to have a well-oiled machine that works to your advantage than gear that renders you immobile. Us wheelies don't get far on foot, so it's important to do proper research and take the necessary precautions so that you can fully enjoy your many adventures. 

That Which You Need: Packing Tips

Before embarking on any journey (short or long) it's important to make sure you have everything that you need. Packing is, in many ways, an art form. Some can do it quickly and beautifully without batting an eye, while others (like myself) become rolling nutcases. I get packing anxiety right before every vacation and it's a real drag. "What do I bring? How many catheters should I take? Do I have enough t-shirts to wear every day and still have enough to avoid wearing the same thing twice? Should I pack the mankini**?" Inevitably we all dread the thought of leaving something crucial behind, and it's especially important to pack wisely when you have a disability. That said, here are some things to think about when packing for your trip. Yes, even YOU can pack as efficiently as renowned world traveler Rick Steves!

1. Make a List: Check it twice! Or thrice. My dad always used to create elaborate packing lists before every family vacation and I always thought he was insane for doing this. Come to find out... he wasn't. In fact, he was always prepared for every trip BECAUSE of the list. Print out a list or jot one down on a notepad. There are some great packing lists online: The Independent Traveler, Wikitravel, Travellerspoint, Rick Steves' Europe.  AbilityTrip.com also has a downloadable .pdf packing checklist that does include some items pertinent to disability. Most online lists won't include some of the more specialized items, such as adaptive equipment (wheelchairs, cushions, specialized medical items), but it's a good starting point and a great resource for the novice and pro traveller alike. 

2. Don't overpack: The more luggage you bring, the more you'll have to haul around. Besides, it's always nice to leave room for souvenirs... right? For those who will inevitably be jettisoning medical waste (catheters, etc.) you'll no doubt free up some luggage space during your travels. Still, plan on packing only what you need so that you (or your travel partner) don't have to haul around all of your earthly possessions. I typically bring a rolling bag and a backpack. When traveling by air, I'll always check my rolling bag and bring my backpack on the plane. It's also a good idea to know the size and weight restrictions of airlines. This will help you determine whether or not you'll check or carry on your luggage. You can find these restrictions online at each of the airlines' webpages. Bottom Line: Keep it as light as possible and only bring what you absolutely need (or think you absolutely need)!

Broken caster in Times Square, NYC.

3. Wheelchair Supplies: There's nothing worse than being stranded up sh*# creek without a paddle... or a functioning wheelchair. Last year I knocked a chunk out of one of my front wheelchair casters while rolling through Times Square in New York City. Luckily I had a spare wheel with me and was able to get a local skate shop to help with the repair. Bringing spare wheels, inner tubes, tire and cushion repair kits and other tools is critical when traveling abroad. The likelihood of finding the parts you need (while vacationing) is slim to none; so always come prepared with the right tools and accessories for your adaptive equipment. You should also avoid bringing your tools in your carry-on bag. Some airlines will confiscate tools if they look sketchy or weapon-like. Pack your tools in your checked bags. In some instances you may have to purchase tools at your destination. Always bring what you need and pack it accordingly so that your trip isn't spoiled by a damaged piece of equipment. You have to have mobility! A wheelchair without wheels is just a chair. Many folks prefer to use solid tires when traveling. If you decide to go this route, you won't need spare inner tubes or patches. However, I still recommend bringing a spare front caster. I also suggest bringing DW-40 and grease for your axels. Especially when traveling in humid environments. For those traveling with a power chair, make sure you bring an additional battery and charging accessories. This includes electrical outlet adapters (see Electronics below). Cushions can also be damaged, so make sure you have supplies to patch a hole or leak. I always like to bring my Jay Protector, just in case something happens to my primary wheelchair cushion. 

4. Medication: Whenever you travel, you should always bring your meds. This includes all medication that you take on a daily basis. You should also include items such as Imodium A-D or Pepto Bismol. These can come in handy when eating exotic foods. Nothing worse than getting the trots while abroad. Finally, make sure you bring antibiotics. You can typically get these from your doctor and are good to have in case you come down with something. Being sick is never fun, especially when traveling. It's also a good idea to keep your meds in your carry-on bag. I always keep my medication close, just in case there's a delay or something happens to my checked luggage. 

5. Bathroom Supplies: Let's face it, no one can hold it forever. At some point during your journey, you're going to have to void. So it's important to be prepared for every situation: accessible and otherwise. First, bring enough catheters to last the duration of your trip. Figure out how many caths you typically use on a given day and add at least one or two to the daily dose. I typically cath four times a day, but always plan on using six catheters each day while traveling. I'm a regular peeing machine. There have been a few times that I've cut my usage very close (ex: using the last catheter just after returning home.) You never want to run out, so bring enough supplies to last the duration of the trip, and BEYOND!!! For those who re-use catheters, make sure you bring the necessary cleaning supplies. And please, don't use dirty catheters. Second, keep an empty water bottle (or other receptacle with a lid) with you at all times. You may find yourself in a tight situation and won't have time to get to a restroom. I've used the bottle on several international trips, where getting to the plane's lavatory is a bit tricky. Some of you may decide to travel with an indwelling catheter. This can also be an easy way of discretely avoiding accidents. Undergarments are also nice to have in case of emergencies. For women, skirts and pants that zip off to shorts are a great way of making that "gotta go now" task much easier. Third, make sure you bring all of the necessities for your bowel program. It's also a good idea to pack small garbage bags, for proper disposal of any used bathroom supplies. Finally, always pack antibacterial gel or hand wipes. You always want to keep your hands clean and let's face it, it's easy for the hands to get filthy after rolling around all day. 

6. Important Documents: Keep your passport and personal identification with you at all times. It's also a good idea to make a high-quality photocopy of your passport, just in case the original is misplaced or stolen. The passport copy should be kept in another bag, or better yet, the hotel safe. Whenever traveling abroad, I always keep my passport and credit cards in a money belt under my clothes. Having said that, I realize my secret is now revealed. You never want keep important items in pockets or places that can easily be accessed by others (like gypsies). Some people like to use the bags under their wheelchairs and that's fine as long as the bag isn't obvious or easy to access by passersby. Also, if you have any medical implants, make sure you bring the necessary documentation. This is especially important when passing through airport security. 

7. Contact Information: It's always a good idea to have a list of important names and contacts with you at all times. This list can be a printed hard copy or (thanks to modern technology) a list contained on a portable device such as your phone. You can also email a list to yourself, to be accessed online when needed. Important contacts may include: Family, friends, travel contacts, medical contacts (doctor), local assistive care contacts, and local government contacts (U.S. embassies, consulates, and consular agencies) specific to the area you are visiting. You may never need to access this list, but it's nice to know it's available in case of emergency. 

8. Valuables: As Yoda once said: "Take only that which you need".  Leave expensive items like jewelry at home. If you absolutely have to bring jewelry, select only one or two items and don't bring the expensive stuff. Expensive items can be easily stolen, so if at all possible... don't bring the bling. When traveling with electronics (cameras, laptops) make sure you keep those items with you or lock them up in your hotel safe. Also, don't put all of your eggs (currency) in one basket. Always spread out your money, credit cards, travelers checks, etc., by placing them in different areas. That way, if you're robbed you'll still have access to funds. 

9. Electronics: Don't take too many toys. Only bring the stuff you absolutely need (assistive devices, camera, phone, etc.) Whenever you travel with electronic equipment, you should always bring electrical outlet adapters. Not all electrical outlets are the same. Electrical outlets in other countries can be much different than US outlets. Once you've determined where you're going and what electronics you plan on bringing, make sure you purchase the right outlet adapter. This is especially important when traveling with a power chair. You'll need to recharge your batteries and it's critical that you're able to plug into the hotel's outlets. 

10. Clothing: Pack the right threads for the right environment. In other words, don't pack Bermuda shorts and tank tops if you're heading to Nepal. Research the climate of your destination so that you can pack appropriate clothing. And always plan on inclement weather. For wheelies it's a good idea to pack durable clothing. If you're constantly rolling and transferring from surface to surface, you'll want clothes that can handle wear and tear. It's also a good idea to take clothes that don't show the dirt. White pants are a bad idea. Brown or black pants hide the dirt much more easily. I know some folks get worried about soiled or dirty clothing and will compensate by packing more than they need. Just remember, most hotels have a laundry service. In the event that I overdo it on the margaritas and have an accident, I'll always pay to have the hotel clean my clothes. It saves luggage space and doesn't really cost an arm and a leg to get your clothes laundered. If you go on a day trip, it's not a bad idea to pack some spare pants and undies, just in case something happens. One last note: take older clothing. You don't want to ruin new clothes. Some fold, some roll, but try to pack your clothes as efficiently in your bags as possible. 

11. Recreational Gear: For those who like adventure, you'll definitely want to bring along your adventure gear. For example: If you like to snorkel or scuba dive, you may consider bringing your goggles, snorkel and fins (hand or leg). It's always a good idea to pack for the recreational activity you'll be engaging in. And always bring your swimming suit (if you plan on swimming)!


12. Reading Material: Bring something to read. There will always be downtime during a trip, especally when in transit from destination to destination. It's always good to have a book or magazine on hand. I would also suggest bringing books relating to your travel destination. Lonely Planet, Fodors, and Frommers have great travel guides, complete with hotel, restaurant and activity resources. 

13. The Backpack: I always like to keep the good stuff with me at all times, in case of emergency. My basic backpack (or daypack) contents include the following:

• Bottled Water: Yes, you need to hydrate when traveling. And I know that folks in chairs think drinking less = less trips to the potty. Bad idea. You have to hydrate. I should also note that you'll need to purchase your bottled water on your trip or at the airport. You cannot bring bottled water from home, as that is considered an act of terrorism. 
• Snacks: Always have a snack with you in case you get hungry. Energy bars, trail mix or chips are great. Fruit works too, but don't leave it in your pack too long. 
• Tire Repair Kit: Just in case I pop a tire, I always bring a spare inner tube and tire repair kit. That way, I won't be stranded. For those who have solid tires, this won't apply. 
• Bathroom Supplies: I always bring my bathroom kit, in case of emergency. This includes supplies relating to number one and number two. I typically always bring at least four catheters and my cath extender for those hard-to-reach toilets. 
• Antibacterial Gel: Gotta keep those hands clean. 
• Medication: I always bring my Imodium A-D. 
• Spare pants/undies: You never know when Montezuma will seek revenge. 
• Camera/Video Camera: I love documenting my travels, so I'll always bring my still or video camera. Hey, if you happen to witness an animal attacking an annoying tourist, you'll definitely be glad you have your camera on hand.
• Tunes: I like to listen to music during my downtime and will always bring my iPod along.
• Book: During any road trip, it's always good to have something to read. From Danielle Steel to Stephenie Meyer, find something you like to read and bring it.   

Me and my backpack in Valladolid, Mexico.

14. Money Belts/Pouches: Always keep your money and passport safely hidden at all times. Money belts and pouches are a great way of keeping your valuables and important documents close by and out of sight.

15. Makeup: No, I personally do not bring a makeup kit on my travels, unless of course I'm going to Burning Man. For those of you who do wear makeup, it's not a bad idea to bring the essentials. You should also keep a few items with you in case of an emergency. What those items are, I'm not entirely sure because I'm a dude. 

These are just a few suggestions when packing for your next adventure. In future posts, I'll cover specific "planning" considerations, including: safety, health considerations (immunizations), the right wheelchair for the right terrain, etc. Knowing what to bring on a trip will allow you to better avoid issues during your journey. Always be prepared so that you can focus on having a good time. Nothing can spoil a trip quicker than having an accident and not being prepared. And remember, it's okay to feel some anxiety when packing for a trip. It's totally normal. Just plan ahead, check off your list, and you're likely to have a worry-free adventure. 

I welcome any additional comments on the subject of packing for travel. Everyone has their own tips and it's great to get a sense for what other travelers with disabilities bring on their vacations. 

**Typically the answer is always a resounding "YES!"

To Boldly Go...

En route to the "Chac Mool" Cenote near Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. 

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." Mark Twain

Accessible travel for individuals with mobility issues has often been thought of as impossible or, at the very least, damn near impossible. For those of us who who roll around (use wheelchairs), the very thought of travelling to a potentially inaccessible destination is nucking futs. And yet we all desire to explore strange new worlds and cultures. Why must this desire be impossible? Why must we shelve our interest in journeying to exotic lands? Why can't we just pack our bags and go? Well, the goal of this here blog is to shed some light on the Goliath that is "Accessible Travel". Specifically: Travel for those with physical disabilities that cannot navigate the stairs and rocky terrain of this fine planet.

This blog will focus on accessbile (and seeming IN-accessible) destinations, including: hotels, activities, restaurants, landmarks, and (most importantly) bathrooms! I also want to review current online resources for accessible travel. Some of these websites are good and some are terribly vague. Most will tell you how to get from your hotel room to the nearby swimming pool... and that's about it. I believe the devil is in the details and that's what travelers expect: specifics. Not only specifics but all of the options available in a given location.

I hope this blog will encourage feedback and open discussion regarding all things travel and specific destinations. If you have or know someone who is living with a disability, voice (or write) your thoughts. I admit that my expertise is limited to access for individuals who use wheelchairs. Hopefully any info. that covers access for wheelchairs will also help those with other physical disabilities. That said, if I don't cover issues pertaining to visual/hearing impairments, please forgive me. I have limited experience with the subject and would probably screw it up big time. I also want this blog to act as a resource so that folks can get out of their comfort homes and venture into the great unknown.

So, why am I interested in the subject of accessible travel? In 1996 I was paralyzed in a repelling accident. I severed my spine at the thoracic 9-10 level and now use a wheelchair for mobility. I also love travelling. So, it makes sense that this is a subject that is near and dear. Since '96, I've had some good and bad experiences while globetrotting. At times, my travels have been somewhat frustrating. But always, my journeys have been an opportunity to experience new things and test my abilities. There's no greater sense of accomplishment than conquering an inaccessible foreign land. To say you made it, you did it, and you'll do it again and again. Sound good? Great! Now let's get out there.