The world is now more accessible than ever before. Twenty percent (62 million) of the U.S. population has some form of disability, and the number of these individuals is increasing tour consultancy. Many of these people feel traveling is out of their reach and only a dream. These people need to, want to, and can travel and it is getting easier everyday. If you’re part of that twenty percent or know someone who is, know this, a world of travel awaits you, your dreams can come true!

Many Travel agencies and agents are making an effort to help individuals who have special needs. Some are even becoming Certified Accessible Travel Advocates a new certification issued by the Special Needs Group (SNG), the leading global provider of special needs equipment for the travel industry.

This committed to learning about unique needs of Accessible Travel of travel. They receive specialized training & knowledge about how to help those individuals with disabilities enjoy a wonderful, hassle-free and memorable trip.

Not all countries have things such as the American With Disabilities Act so many agents are constantly compiling destinations, resorts, excursions,and ships that we know can handle special needs travelers. Agencies are also partnering different companies to be able to provide specialized medical equipment to clients. From Oxygen to wheel chairs, Power Chairs, scooters, even hospital beds can be arranged to be in your room or cruise ship cabin. There are even wheelchairs than can be easily be used on snow or sand and even go into the ocean or a pool. Specialized service can also be arranged including Dialysis.

If you have been dreaming of traveling, whether it is a dream vacation, or a trip to see family or friends and thought it wasn’t possible know that might not be true anymore. Contact a travel professional that knows about accessible travel and stop dreaming and start packing.

To get you started here are a few tips that when your next travel opportunity arises, you are ready to go.

Outline your travel needs

Take time to evaluate the logistics of your trip in relation to your ability to keep pace. What modes of transportation will you be using? Airplane, motor coach, train, ship, transit vans for ground transfers? Make a list, referring to relevant brochures, your trip organizer or travel agent to make sure you don’t miss anything.

Now, make a list of your specific requirements. Be honest: what types of special needs equipment do you depend on at home? What do you use or need (or wish you had!) when shopping, sightseeing locally, dining out or going to the movies, attending concerts, the theater, street fairs or sporting events at home?

Can you hear and see clearly without special auditory equipment or visual aides? How far can you walk without a rest break? Are stairs difficult? Can you get in and out of the tub or shower at home without handgrips or other assistance?

Travel, whether solo or in a group, is no time for roughing it or trying to “tough it out.” If a wheelchair, scooter or portable oxygen will make your trip easier, place that item on your list. Many people who do not use wheelchairs or walkers at home feel more comfortable using these mobility aides for tour and excursions. In fact, most of Special Needs Group’s wheelchair and scooter rentals are to individuals who only use such aides when traveling.

Plan Ahead

If you already own a scooter or portable oxygen, it’s important to know the policy and procedures for bringing that equipment onboard all the transport vehicles included in your itinerary, from planes to taxis to ferry boats. Does that transport have a way to stow your scooter or wheelchair? Is oxygen allowed on board? Some airlines prohibit certain types of batteries, such as wet cell batteries, or oxygen cylinders. Airlines operate under strict rules, so there may be packing procedures to follow if they do allow the equipment. Keep in mind, most airlines need at least 48 hours’ notice to make special arrangements, and be prepared to fill out forms.