14 Travel Hacks for an Accessible Adventure (a Two-Part Series)

Well hello, nice to see you! If you’re coming here from The World is Accessible, welcome. You’re now in the tabifolk community – in our blog section. We’d love to just take a minute before diving into part two of this two part series on accessible travel hacks and tips, just to draw your attention to the fact that, now you’re here, you may like to create a free profile and join in on some of our conversations. You can also comment at the bottom of this article, once you’re logged in.

We’re really keen to grow our community here. We’re proud to also be members of The World is Accessible, and believe that there is room for crossover between our two communities.
Furthermore, we are always actively on the lookout for those that would like to be “local concierges”, meaning that you could join your countries respective subgroup here on tabifolk and if other members have country-specific questions for your region, you may be able to help out from time to time. We hope that at least some of you guys will consider joining.

For now though, lets crack on with part two.

Part 2 – Rolling With It:

If part one wheeled you into action, here’s the encore you’ve been waiting for. Let’s dig into seven more travel hacks to make your next trip a breeze — because life’s too short for inaccessible elevators and a distinct lack of curb cuts.

1. Pack Like a Pro

Being strategic when you pack is a great way to avoid uneccessary stumbling blocks when trying to find your essentials. With that in mind, keep items such as medications and mobility aids, in your carry-on, where possible. This’ll ensure easy access in terms where you just need to grab them!

Pro tip: if you can, split your medication and put half in your carry-on and half in your checked luggage. This means if you lose one half, somehow, you won’t have lost all of your vital medicine. It’s easier to try and explain to a doctor or pharmacist what you need as replacement if you still have some with you. Perhaps purposefully taking too much medication with you can also ensure that you are not left scrambling around trying to find a refill in an unfamiliar country.

2. Check Your Wheels Before You Go

Whether it’s a manual wheelchair or a power chair, your wheels need a certain amount of tender love and care, none more so than when you’re about to hit the road. If you’re unable to do it yourself, schedule a maintenance appointment before you leave to avoid any mid-trip disasters. Not that you should be too scuppered, after all, in the first article we did talk about packing tool kits, right… right?

For extra dose of peace of mind, research the nearest wheelchair repair shop at your destination before you board the plane.

Pro trip: if you’re heading somewhere where they speak a different language, use Google translate to find out what a wheelchair repair shop is called – make a note of it for when asking in person at your destination. You can also use this when searching online for your nearest store.

3. Service Animals are VIPs

Traveling with a service animal? Research local laws and regulations ahead of time. Some countries have strict entry requirements, so ensure your furry friend has the necessary documentation. And when booking accommodations, make sure there’s space for your four-legged assistant to relax and recharge, too. Remember, what the law may state in the USA or in Europe, isn’t necessarily how things operate in foreign lands.

4. Master the Art of Pacing

We get it, you’re excited. We’ve been there, churning out the hours planning every move and wanting to make the most of your dream trip – but please, consider pacing yourself. There’s little worse than coming home and feeling like you need a vacation to recover from your vacation. It’s important to strike a balance – and it’s also important to recognise that not everybody in your party will want to move a million miles per hour. Spare a thought for those who just want to soak it all in and enjoy their new surroundings at a leisurely pace.

A marathon day might leave you too exhausted to enjoy the rest of your trip. Schedule downtime and make use of lounges if you’re traveling by train or plane—they’re not just for the suit-and-tie crowd!

5. Know Your Rights

From the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) in the U.S. to the European Accessibility Act (EAA), accessibility laws are here to protect your rights as a traveler with a disability. These regulations ensure equal treatment, whether you’re flying, using public transport, or accessing digital services. Knowing your rights—like the ACAA’s provisions for onboard assistance or the EAA’s focus on accessible goods and services—gives you the confidence to navigate your journey.

When challenges arise, stay calm, confident, and assertive. Politely explain your needs, reference the law when needed, and don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself. With preparation and self-assurance, you can handle any hiccup along the way and show the world the importance of accessibility.

6. Ask Locals for Advice

Who knows a city’s accessibility better than the people who call it home? Locals are a treasure trove of insider knowledge when it comes to navigating accessible attractions, restaurants, and transportation. By connecting with local disability groups or joining online forums, you can uncover invaluable tips that even the best guidebooks often overlook. These hidden gems—like that cozy café with a ramped entrance or a scenic trail with wheelchair-friendly pathways—can truly elevate your travel experience.

On tabifolk, our global community thrives on this exchange of knowledge. We actively encourage members to become local concierges, sharing their firsthand expertise about accessibility in their areas or countries. Whether it’s recommending a reliable accessible taxi service, pointing out barrier-free accommodations, or highlighting must-visit attractions, our members make traveling smoother for everyone.

By tapping into this network, you’re not just planning a better trip—you’re building connections and benefiting from real-world insights. So, before your next adventure, pop into tabifolk to chat with locals who know their cities inside out. You might even discover an accessible gem that becomes the highlight of your journey!

7. Travel Insurance (Yes, Again)

It deserves a second mention because it’s that important. Your wheelchair or mobility scooter is an investment—treat it like one. Insure your equipment and understand the fine print. Ensure your policy covers damages during transit, particularly with airlines, where incidents are surprisingly common. Having coverage in place can save you from unnecessary stress and expense if the unexpected happens. Being prepared means you can focus on enjoying your trip, no matter what challenges arise.