My Ultimate Wheelchair Travel Packing List
Travelling a lot around the world in my wheelchair, I am often asked what I pack in my suitcase. People with disabilities are sometimes scared to travel because they do not know what to pack for a trip and might forget some things that they might need. We not only have to pack clothing like able-bodied travelers, but we have to remember such things like medical equipment, supplies and medications. I always like to start packing 3 to 4 days before I leave for my trip because I don’t want to forget anything and I rather pack a few things at a time instead of getting one caregiver to spend a long time packing everything at once. Here is my ultimate wheelchair travel packing list:
Mobility and Medical Equipment
Most of my trips, I like to bring my manual wheelchair because it allows me to do more. I am able to go on streets without curb ramps; transfer to cars, taxis, trains easier and able to collapse my chair to stow away. I always travel with a friend who is capable of helping me with these things, so I can do more of on my vacations. I have only taken my powerchair to select cities along with my manual chair like Las Vegas and Toronto. If I do, I make sure my battery charger is in my suitcase.
My commode/shower chair is something that I always bring every trip. Hotels do have shower chairs/benches but it is always very basic and flimsy that it will not work for me. It is great that airlines do not charge to bring medical equipment. I just wrap it up a bit with plastic to make it look a little discreet. My commode does not fold up because it is a tilting commode which is more comfortable to sit in. If I have trouble transporting it from airport, I just get it tied to the roof a vehicle. I do get the foot pedals taken off and stored in my suitcase.
tilting commode, leg pedals and cushion will be put in suitcase
Something I always bring with my chairs is the air-pump for my roho cushion. Since I am susceptible to pressure sores really easy, I can’t risk my cushion getting flat. I use this cushion on flights and even long car/cab rides. A transfer/chest strap is also essential for my trip. I have no upper body strength so this belt is useful when I need to sit on a train, boat or even trekking down bumpy old streets in my manual wheelchair. This strap also doubles as a leg strap if my legs spasm too much that day.
Suitcase
I make sure I have enough tops and bottoms for my trip. Depending on my destination, I make sure I have at least a few hoodies or sweaters for the nights. Even in hot destinations, sometimes the nights get breezy and I rather be safe than sorry. I make sure I have sandals, and dress shoes if I think I would need it. I try not to over-pack with too much clothing because space in my suitcase can really add up with extra things I won’t wear. I also bring a bag of medical supplies that includes extra catheters, bags, medical gloves, pads and a wound-care kit in case I get pressure wounds or sores. I have a toiletry bag with my toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, shave cream, cologne and more medical supplies like alcohol wipes, my special bent fork/spoon etc.
Carry On Bag
In my carry-on bag, I like to keep my important items that I rather keep with me. That includes a smaller electronics bag where I keep my tablet, camera, batteries and chargers. That way, I can use my tablet on the plane or in transit at airports. I like to bring a cap and a sweater/hoodie just in case I find it cold at the airport or for the plane ride. Lots of snacks are always in my carry-on too! I like to bring granola bars, chocolates, snack mixes or chips. Yes, airlines do provide meals for longer flights but the snacks on board are more expensive and limited. My water bottle is always with me because of my catheter, I am constantly drinking water. Another super important item I pack here are my medications. Airlines can lose or delay your luggage, so I make sure ALL my medications are with me. I tend to bring a few days more of medications in case of flight delays or them getting lost or missing.
Small Personal Bag
I like to bring a smaller travel bag that I either wear on me or tie it to my wheelchair. I keep my wallet, passport, camera, keys, the days medications, travel book and important documents in this bag. Since this is always with me, I can keep track of my most important things and keep it in sight from robbers or pickpocketers.
So there you have it. This is what I generally pack for a trip. Not the funnest thing to do but once you get to your destination, you know it is totally worth it. It is probably not too different from how you pack your suitcase. Let me know how you pack your suitcase.
