Permobil logo
Permobil logo

Let's wheel the world together
and make it a great ride!

Everyone should have equal opportunity to experience the world and explore new places safely, conveniently, and independently. Permobil wants to help! Like you, we want to encourage and challenge the travel industry to ensure they meet the needs, behaviors, and concerns of passengers who are wheelchair users in their approach to inclusion and accessibility. By raising awareness, we can all do better. 

💬 No translation data

Planning for your trip

Preparing for travel as a wheelchair user involves several important steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here are some essential tasks to consider:

Research your destination: Prioritize destinations that are known for their accessibility and have infrastructure and facilities suitable for wheelchair users. Look for information on accessible accommodations, transportation options, wheelchair-friendly activities, dining, and attractions.

Plan your itinerary: Create a detailed list that includes accessible points of interest, attractions, and restaurants. Make sure to factor in travel times and consider the availability of accessible transportation options at your destination. 

Contact your accommodation: Reach out to your chosen hotel/host in advance to confirm their accessibility features, such as wheelchair-accessible rooms, ramps, elevators, and bathroom facilities. Ask any specific questions or request additional information if needed. 

This is just a small portion of the trip planning guide. Click on the link below to download the free PDF.

Download the Trip Planning PDF
Travel tips, products, and services
Watch Eric LeGrand's top travel tips
Check out ADAPTS Portable Transfer Sling
Book your vacation with Incredible Memories Travel Agency
TSA Cares
Sign up for TSA Cares screening support

Traveling by car or plane

Here are some tips for traveling by car or plane. To download the full checklist click on the button below.

Traveling by car
• Make sure routine service is done on your vehicle and your wheelchair before your trip.
• Keep a roadside emergency kit or other supplies needed for the type, season, and duration of your trip.

Traveling by plane
• Contact your airline ahead of time to plan for the transport of your chair.
• Make sure to describe the type of chair you use and consider the airplane size to make sure it fits your needs.

Download the full checklist

Travel with confidence

Designed specifically for wheelchair users, this comprehensive resource collection is your key to a hassle-free and enjoyable journey. Download now and gain instant access to a wealth of invaluable tools, tips, and information tailored to enhance your travel experience. From important travel checklists, battery certificates, and a wheelchair handling sign—download our Wheelchair Travel Resource package and make it a great ride!

Download now
If something happens during air travel

  • Notify

    Complete a thorough inspection of your wheelchair and all of its components as soon as you receive it back after your flight. If there is any damage, including cosmetic, immediately notify airline staff at the airport to file a report. It is highly encouraged that you do not leave the airport until you’ve filed a claim. However, if damage is noted after leaving the airport, some air carriers will allow you to submit a claim later. Be sure to verify all processes with the specific airline.

  • Document

    Take photos of your wheelchair and its components before handing it over to airline staff. This will serve as evidence of its condition. If your wheelchair gets damaged, photograph the damage and note all details. These photos will be useful when filing a claim. Keep all flight-related documents for your records.

  • Follow-up

    After filing the report, request a written copy of the next steps and inquire about a loaner or rental wheelchair if yours is inoperable or significantly damaged. Follow up with the airline after your trip for updates on the status and repair timeline. Maintain regular communication until the matter is resolved satisfactorily.
Get to the gate early
Get to the gate as soon as you can, like right after you get past security, and introduce yourself to the check-in person and explain to them what you need help with and that you need to board early.
Patrik Wolff, Sweden
Digital Marketing
Get to the gate early
Get to the gate as soon as you can, like right after you get past security, and introduce yourself to the check-in person and explain to them what you need help with and that you need to board early.
Patrik Wolff, Sweden
Digital Marketing
Communication is key
We attach bright blue soft loop tie down straps to the four transit brackets and tape simple instructions with graphics as well as our phone number to the seat. Over communication is the theme.
Jerod and Hanna Nieder, US
Cofounders of PositivelyParalyzed
Communication is key
We attach bright blue soft loop tie down straps to the four transit brackets and tape simple instructions with graphics as well as our phone number to the seat. Over communication is the theme.
Jerod and Hanna Nieder, US
Cofounders of PositivelyParalyzed
Packing list
Make sure you pack your power chair battery charger (and that it is compatible with your destination!).
Eric LeGrand, US
Sports Analyst & Philanthropist
Packing list
Make sure you pack your power chair battery charger (and that it is compatible with your destination!).
Eric LeGrand, US
Sports Analyst & Philanthropist
Toilet break
If you see an accessible toilet use it, as you might not see one as soon as you need it.
Ross Harvey
Ross Hovey, UK
Accessibility Manager, Lloyds Banking Group and Co-Founder Changing Places
Ross Harvey
Toilet break
If you see an accessible toilet use it, as you might not see one as soon as you need it.
Ross Hovey, UK
Accessibility Manager, Lloyds Banking Group and Co-Founder Changing Places
London's accessible transportation
London was fantastic and is one of the only cities with taxis/cabs that have a ramp in ALL of their vehicles! We were able to hail a cab at any time, which is something I have never experienced before. The 'Tube' (subway) was also pretty accessible, as long as you 'mind the gap'. So if you want to visit a place where you are free to explore without too much pre-planning, try London!
Katie Charboneau, Canada
Digital Marketing
London's accessible transportation
London was fantastic and is one of the only cities with taxis/cabs that have a ramp in ALL of their vehicles! We were able to hail a cab at any time, which is something I have never experienced before. The 'Tube' (subway) was also pretty accessible, as long as you 'mind the gap'. So if you want to visit a place where you are free to explore without too much pre-planning, try London!
Katie Charboneau, Canada
Digital Marketing
Get to the gate early
Get to the gate as soon as you can, like right after you get past security, and introduce yourself to the check-in person and explain to them what you need help with and that you need to board early.
Patrik Wolff, Sweden
Digital Marketing
Get to the gate early
Get to the gate as soon as you can, like right after you get past security, and introduce yourself to the check-in person and explain to them what you need help with and that you need to board early.
Patrik Wolff, Sweden
Digital Marketing
Communication is key
We attach bright blue soft loop tie down straps to the four transit brackets and tape simple instructions with graphics as well as our phone number to the seat. Over communication is the theme.
Jerod and Hanna Nieder, US
Cofounders of PositivelyParalyzed
Communication is key
We attach bright blue soft loop tie down straps to the four transit brackets and tape simple instructions with graphics as well as our phone number to the seat. Over communication is the theme.
Jerod and Hanna Nieder, US
Cofounders of PositivelyParalyzed
Packing list
Make sure you pack your power chair battery charger (and that it is compatible with your destination!).
Eric LeGrand, US
Sports Analyst & Philanthropist
Packing list
Make sure you pack your power chair battery charger (and that it is compatible with your destination!).
Eric LeGrand, US
Sports Analyst & Philanthropist
Toilet break
If you see an accessible toilet use it, as you might not see one as soon as you need it.
Ross Harvey
Ross Hovey, UK
Accessibility Manager, Lloyds Banking Group and Co-Founder Changing Places
Ross Harvey
Toilet break
If you see an accessible toilet use it, as you might not see one as soon as you need it.
Ross Hovey, UK
Accessibility Manager, Lloyds Banking Group and Co-Founder Changing Places
London's accessible transportation
London was fantastic and is one of the only cities with taxis/cabs that have a ramp in ALL of their vehicles! We were able to hail a cab at any time, which is something I have never experienced before. The 'Tube' (subway) was also pretty accessible, as long as you 'mind the gap'. So if you want to visit a place where you are free to explore without too much pre-planning, try London!
Katie Charboneau, Canada
Digital Marketing
London's accessible transportation
London was fantastic and is one of the only cities with taxis/cabs that have a ramp in ALL of their vehicles! We were able to hail a cab at any time, which is something I have never experienced before. The 'Tube' (subway) was also pretty accessible, as long as you 'mind the gap'. So if you want to visit a place where you are free to explore without too much pre-planning, try London!
Katie Charboneau, Canada
Digital Marketing

Making it a great ride

Travel has become an integral part of our lives. Whether it's for work or leisure, the ability to explore new places and experience different cultures is something that everyone should have access to. However, for individuals with disabilities, travel accessibility can often be a challenge. Thankfully, there are individuals and organizations that are working tirelessly to improve travel accessibility and create a more inclusive travel experience for all.

Download the Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights
Learn more about All Wheels Up
Download the free community driven accessibility app
Learn more about the Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality (SATH)
Discover accessible places with AccessNow
Learn more about TravelAbility
Download United Spinal's air travel guide
Learn more about Handicapped Travel Club

Wheelchair Nerds Podcast

Be sure to check out the Wheelchair Nerds podcast for our accessible travel series featuring Kristy Durso and Jerod Nieder. They share invaluable tips on successful wheelchair travel, including navigating the airport, transportation, and hotel accommodations. Kristy also provides tips for traveling and highlights must-visit places in the US and abroad. Don't miss their expert advice!

Listen now
Loading...

Why is Permobil starting this initiative?
As a leading global distributor of technical innovations for people with disabilities, Permobil prioritizes inclusion and diversity. We understand the challenges of traveling with a wheelchair and believe that everyone should have equal opportunities to explore the world safely and independently.

What do we want to achieve with the initiative?
We aim to create a platform for wheelchair travelers to share their stories and tips, as well as advocate for change. By embracing 'Let's wheel the world together – and make it a great ride,' we can support each other's initiatives and make a difference to help create a world where travel is not only possible, but enjoyable for wheelchair users.

Bring Permobil news & updates to your inbox

Products

About Permobil

Resources

Education

© Permobil 2024. All rights reserved.
Permobil Privacy Information