Travelling with a Disability

Did you know that if you are travelling by air when you have a disability, or need help moving around tour operators, have a duty to assist by reducing the barriers to physical travel that may exist for disabled people? So says the Equality Act 2010.

If you dip into the Equality and Human Rights Commission website here you will discover that if you are travelling in Europe, under European law Air Passengers’ Rights you can receive assistance when you fly to and from places in Europe.

But before you book, check out Direct Travel’s insurance to make sure you are covered if the unthinkable happens and your condition means you have to seek medical help while abroad.

It’s important that you talk to your GP to ensure you are fit to travel and that your medication is not a banned substance in your destination country. Keep a list of it, too.

Tips for Travelling with a Disability

• When you consider a hotel/apartment to stay in, discuss with staff or the owner in advance of your stay to ensure it meets your requirements
• If you use a wheelchair will you be able to access the accommodation/room? Get measurements of the door entrances. It may be obvious to you but someone else booking may forget to ask the obvious question: is the accommodation on the ground floor and if not is there a working lift?
• It’s a good idea to work with a travel agent when booking a holiday or a flight as they can make many of the checks for you
• Consider booking a tour package that specialises in holidays for those with disabilities
• Tell the airline you are travelling with what your needs will be before you travel
• Try to book a window seat since you won’t want people climbing over you to get to the toilet or stretch their legs

Direct Travel offers insurance for some existing needs, providing they are declared at the time of booking, so talk to our representatives to see what they can offer.

You will need to provide us with a list of the medications you are taking, details about your condition and any treatment you might have had. Now go off and enjoy yourself.