January 2026
Travel in the United States is getting easier for people with disabilities because of the Americans with Disabilities Act and better awareness of wheelchair users’ needs. But planning ahead is still very important. A little research, knowing your rights, and feeling confident can help make your trip safer and smoother.
Air Travel
People with disabilities face the same hassles as everyone else—delays, lost bags, tight seating—but also some unique challenges like damaged mobility aids, poorly trained staff, and inaccessible restrooms.
Key Tips
- Try to fly direct when you can. Know your rights and ask for help if you need it.
- Get to the airport early (2 hours for U.S. flights, 3 hours for international).
- Check your seat and any help you asked for in your reservation.
- Take pictures of your wheelchair and bags before you get to the airport.
- Gate‐check your wheelchair so it stays with you longer and comes back at the jetway.
- Use the closet on the plane for foldable wheelchairs (first come, first served).
- Download your airline’s app to see gate changes, delays, and baggage updates.
- Look up airport maps ahead of time, especially to find accessible restrooms.
- Mobility aids fly free, so there are no baggage fees.
- Carry a copy of the Air Carrier Access Act and know your rights.
- Plan for bathroom needs because most airplane restrooms are not accessible.
- Give yourself more than an hour for layovers since help may take extra time.
- Before landing, ask the crew to bring an aisle chair and your wheelchair to the jetway.
- Check your wheelchair for damage before you leave the airport.
- Write down names, times, and receipts if something goes wrong.
- Label your wheelchair clearly and secure any parts that can come off.
Buses and Trains
Buses
- All new buses must be accessible for people with disabilities.
- Paratransit must be offered for riders who cannot use regular bus routes.
- Long‐distance buses often have lifts, but the bathrooms are very small and drivers cannot help with transfers.
Trains (Amtrak)
- Most major stations and trains are accessible.
- Accessible seating includes space for a wheelchair, a transfer seat, and storage.
- Overnight trains offer accessible bedrooms.
- Reserve early—accessible rooms are limited.
- Amtrak can accommodate most wheelchairs that meet ADA size guidelines.
- You may stay in your wheelchair or transfer to a seat.
- Manual and power chairs can be checked as baggage if not needed onboard.
- Confirm arrangements with Amtrak before traveling.
Cruise Lines
Cruise ships have improved accessibility significantly. Some cruise lines offer reduced rates for caregivers. Many offer:
- Roll-in showers
- Lower beds
- Visual alarms
- Braille signage
- Accessible staterooms
Key Tips
- Work with a travel agent who knows about disability travel.
- Ask for reviews or tips from people who have similar needs.
- If you can, visit the ship before you book to check the rooms, bathrooms, elevators, and dining areas.
- Newer ships are usually more accessible.
Lodging
Hotel accessibility varies widely, so verify details directly with the hotel—not just the reservation line.
What to Ask
- Door widths
- Roll-in shower availability
- Grab bars
- Shower chairs
- Handheld shower sprayers
- Whether toiletries are reachable (many are wall-mounted)
Also ask about accessibility in:
- Restaurants
- Pools
- Shops
Before You Go
- Confirm your reservation in writing.
- For international travel, include the wheelchair symbol to highlight your needs.
General Travel Tips
- Bring basic wheelchair repair tools (Allen wrenches, pump, spare tubes).
- Identify nearby bike shops—they often help with quick fixes.
- Arrange accessible ground transportation in advance, including taxis or shuttles.
Additional resources are shown below:
- Air Travel and Wheelchairs – https://www.youtube.com/@SBAOrg
- Wheel the World – https://wheeltheworld.com/
- Sage Traveling – https://www.sagetraveling.com/
- Travel for All – https://travel-for-all.com/
- Amtrak – https://www.amtrak.com/accessible-travel-services
- United States Department of Transportation
Revised by Donna Cruz Jones, 2024
This information does not constitute medical advice for any individual. As specific cases may vary from the general information presented here, SBA advises readers to consult a qualified medical or other professional on an individual basis.
