11 Travel Essentials for Wheelchair Users

Traveling always offers the possibility of problems, but for those who face the challenges as a wheelchair user, the process could be a bit more daunting. The tourism industry is making great strides to improve accessibility for travelers with disabilities, such as wheelchair-friendly beaches and major hotel chains that prioritize accessibility features. This does provide some peace of mind, but planning for the possibility of unforeseen events is key. Whether it’s a gel seat cushion for a more comfortable experience or a universal adapter to ensure your wheelchair battery stays charged no matter what country you’re in, there are a few key products that will make traveling smoother and more enjoyable.

I spoke with three accessibility travel experts who drew upon their own experiences to share helpful products for other wheelchair users: Jordana Izzo, Director of Accessible Travel with Travelmation; content creator Chelsea Bear, who shares her personal experiences of living with cerebral palsy; and travel agent David Lyons-Black, who is a wheelchair user and specializes in accessible travel.

Here are the top travel products they recommend, along with some advice for preparing for possible mishaps.

Gel Seat Cushion 

Omcozy Gel Seat Cushion

For long stretches of travel time, Izzo recommends packing a gel seat cushion. “For those longer periods of time in a chair, proper support is needed,” she shares. “[A gel cushion] is a great breathable option, especially in hot climates.” The honeycomb design of this cushion allows air to circulate throughout the thick mattress, keeping it cooler for longer, which will help with overall comfort. The detachable seat cover is easy to clean and provides a protective barrier to help the cushion last longer.

Bluetooth Trackers

Apple AirTag

“For my own peace of mind while traveling, I like to keep an Apple AirTag in the pocket of my mobility scooter and any checked luggage I have, so I can make sure it all boards the plane,” Bear explains. “There have been a lot of issues with airports mishandling mobility devices or even misplacing them, so being able to track my mobility scooter’s location helps ease my anxiety.”

If you have multiple bags that could use an AirTag, consider a four-pack of Apple AirTags at Amazon for under $75. These handy devices work by connecting with your iPhone’s Find My app to show you exactly where your items are, and reviewers praise how easy they are to set up. If you’re not an Apple user, there are Android-friendly Bluetooth trackers to shop as well for tracking your belongings.

Side Seat Bags

Zhchg Wheelchair Side Bag With Cup Holder

For convenience and organization, add a side seat bag to any outing. Izzo chose this five-pocket model that works with wheelchairs, walkers, and electric scooters. “These side bags are super incredible for easy access to immediate necessity items, phone, tickets, sunglasses, wallet, water bottles, and more,” she notes. A best-seller at Amazon, this bag is available in a variety of patterns and is made from heavy-duty nylon with adjustable straps so you can get the perfect fit. At less than $20, this side bag will keep your essentials close by for easy convenience.

Compression Socks

Charmking Compression Socks, 3-pack

Bear considers compression socks, like her go-to Bombas compression socks, a necessity when flying. “These are a must with air travel to help keep swelling down in my legs from the pressure and being seated for a long time,” she shares. Reviewers also swear by these Charmking compression socks at Amazon that reduce swelling by providing 15 to 20 mmHg of compression with a stretchy, flexible design for all-day comfort.

Door Stopper

Remedic Long Handle Door Stopper Wedge, 2-pack

In order to keep a hotel door open while adding luggage, a door stopper can be a good substitute for those solo travelers. This foldable, long-handle door stop can be a lifesaver. Lyons-Black relies on this product during his trips. “This helps keep the room door open when traveling alone and bringing luggage into the room,” he shares. The long, adjustable handle eliminates the need to bend down and position the door stop, and the non-slip base works on a variety of floors like carpet, hardwood, and tile.

Portable Chargers

Anker Power Bank, 20,000mAh Portable Charger

There’s always an uneasy feeling when a cell phone’s battery is low. While some travel locations might have courtesy charging outlets, it’s best to be prepared with a portable power bank. No matter where you are, these are ideal for charging phones and other electronics while on the go. Small enough to fit in a purse, backpack, or a chair’s side seat bag, these little boxes provide big power. 

Bear never leaves home without her Anker portable charger. “I use my phone a lot when traveling, whether it’s to research whether or not a restaurant is accessible, getting directions, making phone calls to coordinate accessible transportation, or taking photos,” Bear says. “I heavily rely on my phone, especially in the event of an emergency.” Traveling with the portable power from Anker gives her the peace of mind to know she won’t ever have to worry about a dying cell phone battery.

Reusable Shower Handles

Scxinnkeer Grab Bars for Bathtubs and Showers, 2-pack

Small enough to be stowed away in a suitcase but strong enough for any needed support, these portable shower handles are ideal for entering and exiting a tub shower combo at the hotel—or any other time you need a little extra support. They simply suction onto the wall, so they can be placed next to the toilet, bed, or any other location.

“These hand bars are great for situations where you might need extra support other than what may or may not be provided in an accessible room or a standard hotel room,” Izzo stated. “The suction cups cause no damage and can be reused.”

Adaptive Backpack

JanSport Central Adaptive Backpack

This adaptive JanSport backpack has been a game-changer for Bear while traveling because of its smart design. “It’s very spacious, and I love the accessible zippers and dual side grab handles with additional attachment points,” Bear says. “It allows me to easily hang the backpack in different areas of my mobility scooter without having to readjust.” With backrest loops, anchor straps, and spacious interior organization, this adaptive pack is spacious to hold essentials and then some, and it comes in a variety of colors. “I can safely keep all of my essentials with me, whether I use it as my carry-on for a flight or for a day of sightseeing,” Bear adds.

Travel Adapter 

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

If you need electricity for charging your mobility device, Bear suggests packing a universal travel adapter, like this best-selling one from Epicka. “This is essential when traveling internationally,” Bear states. “I always make sure to double-check my mobility scooter’s label to see if it’s dual voltage or not to ensure I pack the right combo.” The Epicka adapter has four plug types that can accommodate the socket plugs of over 200 countries. However, you’ll need to double-check your device’s voltage and that of your adapter to ensure there aren’t any issues when charging abroad.

Portable Tools

Topline 25-piece Folding Allen Wrench Set

Tire Inflator Portable Air Pump

Lyons-Black also suggests being prepared for potential setbacks like a flat tire or needing to replace a tire inner tube. Basic tools, like this 25-piece folding Allen wrench set, will help if you need to conduct some maintenance. Make sure you have spares on hand, like an extra inner tube, “as not all shops will have your specific size in stock,” Lyons-Black shares. A small portable pump will also help fill low tires or inflate a tire after an inner tube replacement.

Additionally, Lyons-Black offers some travel tips to help keep travel trips running smoothly. For times of traveling over loose gravel or sand, a freewheel attached in front will help it roll through loose gravel or sand. Additionally, he recommends carrying a few spare parts, such as front casters and/or a joystick for a power chair. Finally, you’ll want to conduct a quick Google search to find wheelchair repair shops in the destination that you are heading to, in case you need them. This will give you peace of mind in case something happens, and you need a repair shop service.

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