How to Make an Accessible Vacation Rental

As travel becomes more inclusive, the need for accessible rentals continues to grow. These rentals cater to a diverse range of individuals, from solo travelers in wheelchairs to families and groups of friends, many of whom may also use wheelchairs. Accessible accommodations are essential for people with varying mobility needs, offering features that support independence, safety, and comfort. Whether a traveler is navigating the world on their own, with a caregiver, or in a group where multiple individuals use mobility devices, having a rental that is thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind can make all the difference in creating an enjoyable and stress-free experience.

Here’s a breakdown of what is needed in an accessible rental, ensuring that all guests, whether using manual or power wheelchairs, can enjoy the space to its fullest.

Entrance and Hallways

• Thresholds and Entryways: Zero-step entries with smooth thresholds ensure easy access.
• Door Widths: Minimum door width of 32 inches, but ideally 36 inches, for easy wheelchair access.
• Lowered Peephole: Install a peephole at an accessible height (about 42-48 inches) for wheelchair users to safely view outside the door.
• Automated Doors or Lever Handles: Lever handles or automated doors with remote controls enhance accessibility.
• Light Switches: Closed-fist, rocker-style switches at an accessible height (48 inches or less).
• Clear Pathways: Hallways should provide at least 36-42 inches of clearance to allow smooth navigation, especially for power wheelchair users.
• Lowered Coat Racks: Coat hooks or racks should be no higher than 48 inches for ease of reach.
• Full-Length Mirror: A full-length mirror at an accessible height is necessary for users to see themselves from head to toe while seated.

Living Room

• Furniture Layout: Leave at least 36 inches of clearance between furniture for wheelchair maneuverability.
• Flooring: Hard surfaces or low-pile carpets are best, avoiding thick rugs that can hinder mobility.
• Lighting: Closed-fist or touch-controlled lamps and switches should be within reach. Voice-Activated Lights: These offer ease of use for individuals with limited hand mobility, adding an extra level of independence.
• Accessible Trash Cans: Trash cans without foot pedals, using hand-operated or automatic-opening lids.
• Seating Options: Firm, non-slippery seating that supports transfers from wheelchairs.
• Remote-Controlled Blinds: Motorized blinds make adjusting light and privacy easier for those with limited mobility.
• Grabber Tool: Provide a grabber tool to help individuals reach items on high shelves or low surfaces.
• Entertainment Systems: Large-button remotes or voice-controlled systems for ease of use.

Kitchen

• Counter and Appliance Heights: Lower countertops to 30-34 inches, and place appliances between 15-48 inches from the floor.
• Roll-Under Sinks: Provide 27 inches of clearance beneath sinks for wheelchair users.
• Accessible Storage: Use drop-down shelves or sliding racks for easy access to kitchen items. Pull-down shelving is ideal for reaching higher cabinets without assistance.
• Faucets: Lever-style or touchless faucets for convenience.
• Accessible Trash Cans: Opt for hand-operated or automatic trash cans with no foot pedals.
• Dining Room Table Height: Tables should be 28-34 inches high with at least 27 inches of knee clearance underneath.

Bedroom

• Bed Height: Beds should be 20-23 inches high for easy transfers, with adjustable beds being ideal.
• Clearance Around Bed: Maintain at least 36 inches of clearance on all sides of the bed.
• Space Under Bed for Hoyer Lift: Provide 5-7 inches of space under the bed to accommodate a hoyer lift. Hoyer lifts are critical for those needing assistance transitioning to and from the bed.
• Lowered Closet Racks: Closet rods and shelves should be no higher than 48 inches, with pull-down mechanisms available for higher items.
• Remote-Controlled Blinds: Motorized blinds provide ease of use for adjusting lighting and privacy.
• Lighting: Bedside lighting with touch controls or remote operation should be provided, with easy-to-access closed-fist switches.
• Charging Outlets: Ensure outlets are placed at an accessible height for charging wheelchairs and other devices.

Bathroom

• Door Width: A minimum of 32 inches for bathroom doors ensures accessibility.
• Roll-In Shower: Curbless showers with fold-down benches and handheld showerheads on adjustable sliding bars.
• Shower Shelf, Nozzle, and Controls: These should all be within easy reach of the shower bench to allow seated users to access toiletries and adjust water flow comfortably.
• Empty Shelf for Miscellaneous Items: Include an empty shelf within reach of the bench for storing personal items like razors and toiletries.
• Shower Benches: Provide a mounted, fold-down bench for seating in the shower.
• Grab Bars: Grab bars near the toilet and shower should be 33-36 inches high.
• Roll-Under Sink: At least 27 inches of clearance beneath the sink with easy-to-operate faucets.
• Accessible Toilet: Toilets should be 17-19 inches high with grab bars for support.
• Emergency Features: Emergency pull cords or buttons should be installed within reach in case of assistance needs.
• Accessible Trash Cans: Avoid foot pedals; use hand-operated or automatic-opening trash cans.
• Mirrors: Tilt-adjustable mirrors or those installed at a suitable height for seated users.

Patio

• Ramp Access: Ramps should provide smooth, sloped access to the patio, ensuring no step barriers.
• Furniture Layout: Keep at least 36 inches of space around patio furniture to allow for easy navigation.
• Weatherproof Seating: Provide seating with firm surfaces and armrests to support transfers.
• Patio Furniture: Tables should have at least 27-30 inches of clearance underneath for wheelchair users.

Garage

• Ramp Van Space: Ensure there is enough space for a ramp van to deploy its ramp or lift. The garage should have at least 8 feet of vertical clearance and enough space on the side of the van (8-10 feet) to accommodate the ramp or lift.
• Parking Space: The garage should provide ample space (at least 16-18 feet wide) to allow for safe wheelchair transfer in and out of the vehicle.
• Charging Stations: Include accessible power outlets near parking areas for charging power wheelchairs or mobility scooters.
• Smooth Flooring: Non-slip, smooth flooring in the garage helps ensure easy movement for wheelchairs.

Additional Features

• Laundry Machines: If the unit includes laundry machines, front-loading washers and dryers are crucial for wheelchair users. Ensure they are installed at an accessible height and have clear floor space in front of them for easy transfers or reach.
• Remote-Controlled Blinds: Throughout the property, motorized blinds operated via remote control provide ease of use and independence.
• Voice-Activated Devices: Voice-activated lights, alarms, or other systems offer greater independence for users with limited mobility.
• Wider Hinges: Offset or wider hinges allow doors to open wider, providing additional clearance and easier navigation for wheelchair users.
• Emergency Pull Cords: Install pull cords or emergency buttons in key areas, such as bedrooms and bathrooms.
• Smart Home Integration: Voice-activated systems for controlling lights, thermostats, and entertainment systems provide greater independence for users with limited mobility.
• Charging Stations: Ensure outlets are positioned at accessible heights for charging devices.
• Pool or Spa Lifts: If the property includes a pool or spa, pool or spa lifts are essential to provide safe, independent access to the water for individuals with limited mobility.
• Portable Ramps: Provide portable ramps for navigating small steps or elevation changes.
• Shower Lifts: Offer ceiling-mounted or portable shower lifts for those needing assistance with transfers.