Travel can bring joy, discovery, and new memories, but for many wheelchair users, just the idea of going somewhere unfamiliar can be overwhelming. Whether it’s your first trip since becoming a wheelchair user or you’ve just had some rough travel experiences in the past, fear is normal.
You don’t have to start big. You don’t even have to leave your city. The key is to start where you are and take small steps to build your confidence. Over time, each trip teaches you more about what works, what you need, and what’s possible.
1. Start Local
Begin with a short day trip somewhere close to home. Maybe it’s a museum you haven’t visited, a public garden, or a neighboring town. Keep it simple.
Focus on navigating transportation, using your chair in a new space, and scoping out accessibility in restrooms or entryways. If something doesn’t go as planned, you can head back home without much stress. This low-risk approach helps you gain experience and builds trust in yourself.
2. Do a Practice Overnight
Once day trips feel comfortable, try spending the night somewhere nearby. Book a hotel or vacation rental that advertises accessibility, and call ahead to ask specific questions:
- Is there a roll-in shower?
- Are there grab bars by the toilet?
- How high is the bed?
- Are all facilities on one floor or is there an elevator?
- Pack lightly and plan one or two activities. This gives you a chance to experience the rhythm of travel: sleeping in a new bed, managing your gear, and getting around town without being far from home if something doesn’t work out.
3. Go With Someone You Trust—Like a Friend, Partner, or Caregiver
Traveling with a companion can ease anxiety and help manage logistics. Whether it’s a partner, friend, or caregiver, a trusted travel buddy can offer both practical support and peace of mind.
If you’re traveling with a caregiver, discuss your needs ahead of time: Will they help with transfers, personal care, or meals? Clear expectations make the trip smoother for both of you.
For more tips on this topic, check out: Tips for Traveling with a Caregiver
4. Plan and Prepare
Fear often comes from the unknown. The more you plan, the more empowered you’ll feel:
- Use Google Maps Street View to scout curb cuts, hills, and entrances.
- Read reviews by other wheelchair users to understand barriers and solutions.
- Call hotels and attractions to ask detailed accessibility questions.
- Save numbers for accessible taxis or wheelchair repair services just in case.
- Planning isn’t about obsessing, it’s about giving yourself the tools to feel ready and flexible.
5. Focus on the Wins
Every trip will have its bumps. Focus on what went right:
- You made the effort to go somewhere new.
- You handled unexpected challenges.
- You learned something that will help next time.
Even if you cut a trip short or change your plans, that doesn’t mean you failed. You took a risk, stepped out of your routine, and grew. That’s worth celebrating.
6. Expand When You’re Ready
After some successful local trips, you might feel ready to go farther. Maybe a weekend getaway or a short flight. Expand at your own pace.
Road trips are a great in-between option. You control the route, timing, and stops. You can pack what you need without airline restrictions, and you can reroute or return home easily if needed. For tips on preparing, read: Wheelchair Accessible Road Trip Tips
Remember: You don’t have to be a world traveler overnight. Go as far as you feel comfortable going then try a little farther next time. Each new experience makes the unknown feel more familiar.
Encouragement
Travel as a wheelchair user can be freeing, fulfilling, and empowering, but it’s okay to feel nervous. What matters is that you start somewhere, and keep going at your own pace. Small steps lead to big journeys.
You’ll figure out what works best for you. You’ll grow more resilient. You’ll build confidence with every mile. And with each trip, whether down the road or across the ocean, you’re not just going somewhere new. You’re proving what’s possible.
