Whilst travelling with a disabled child adds another degree of concern it is still possible to travel with a special needs child.
Air travel with special needs child
- When booking flights make sure you request assistance for the airport with your booking.
- If you have a wheelchair it will be checked in with your luggage and you will be offered an airport wheelchair.
- If you have an electronic wheelchair check with the individual airline regarding carriage of the chair – sometimes the battery can be an issue.
- You may need to consider hiring an electric wheelchair at your destination
- If you have a seeing eye dog speak to the airline about requirements.
- If taking your medication on-board the flight pack it in 100ml bottles in clear plastic bags and take copies of the script.
- Take out travel insurance and declare any special needs goods. Read the fine print.
- Allow extra time.
Booking accommodation for disabilities
- Many types of accommodation are disability friendly with ramps and support bars in bathrooms. You will just need to do a bit more research, check the accommodations website.
- Remember to make your disability request with your booking.
- State exactly what your requirements are and why you need them.
- Request a confirmation email, though most hotels will respond.
Cruising with disabilities
- Cruise ships also have facilities for disabilities, again just do your research and make your request.
- I have come across these 2 articles that may help with booking your cruise with disabilities.
Travel insurance for disabled child
As far as I am concerned travel insurance is must when you travel regardless of how fit and healthy you are. However if you have a special needs child ensure your child and all equipment is covered in the policy you choose.
- Read all the fine print to ensure your insurer will cover all your family.
- Disclose the who has the disability and the type of disability.
- Disclose any special needs equipment.
Helpful sites for travel with disabled
- There are several websites available to help plan your holiday.
- www.globalaccessnews.com
- wheelawaydisabledtravel.com
- www.easyaccessaustralia.com.au
- accessibleaccommodation.com
This is a great resources for families who want to travel but are worried about to accommodate the special needs member of their family. I have bookmarked this for future reference!
Thank you so much Kirsty, I really take that as huge compliment from someone who has to manage with these challenges.
Traveling with children who have certain disabilities can definitely be tough, especially in their younger years but you definitely bring up some awesome points and ways to help. Thanks so much for the post! Incredibly useful!