Mobility Travel Tips in the UK and Abroad

At Luggage Delivery Company, we are dedicated to making travel smooth and stress-free for everyone, particularly those with mobility needs. Whether you’re travelling within the UK or venturing abroad, careful planning and support services can make all the difference. Our goal is to provide you with valuable information, resources, and tips to ensure a seamless journey—whether you’re dealing with mobility challenges or simply seeking a more convenient way to travel.

Travelling with mobility needs can be challenging, but with the right preparation and services, it can be a seamless and enjoyable experience. Travelling doesn’t have to be a hassle.

We know first hand some of the challenges people face when travelling and want to help make sure you have the best information and support for your trip as possible.

Planning ahead

1. Research Your Destination
   It may seem obvious but always research the accessibility standards of your destination. Whether you’re staying in the UK or travelling overseas, websites like AccessibleGo, Wheelmap, and Euan’s Guide can help you find accessible hotels, restaurants, and attractions. However, it’s important to double-check accessibility features directly with each venue to ensure they truly meet your needs. This is especially relevant when travelling internationally, where accessibility standards can vary significantly.
2. Confirm Accessibility with Accommodations
   While many hotels list themselves as accessible, it’s important to verify specific details like roll-in showers, grab bars, wide doorways, and step-free access. For extra peace of mind, it’s worth calling the hotel ahead of time to ask about features tailored to your mobility requirements.
3. Prepare Medically Ensure you have enough medication for the entire trip, as well as any prescriptions or doctor’s notes. This is especially important for international travel, where customs regulations may require documentation for medical equipment like oxygen tanks or CPAP machines. Always pack these essentials in your carry-on.

Mobility Equipment and Luggage Management

1. Mobility Aids and Air Travel
   If you use a wheelchair or mobility scooter, check with your airline well in advance about their policies for transporting mobility aids. Wheelchairs are typically stored in the plane’s cargo hold, and it’s crucial to label your chair and any removable parts. Notify the airline of any assistance you need during boarding, especially if you use an electric chair or require special accommodations. Airlines are equipped to help, but planning is key to ensuring your mobility aid is handled carefully.
2. Consider Renting Mobility Equipment
   Depending on your destination, it may be easier to rent mobility equipment instead of transporting your own. Many major cities in the UK and abroad offer mobility scooter rentals or wheelchair hire services. In the UK, you can find rental options through Visit England, while internationally, services like Scootaround can help with mobility solutions.
3. Luggage Delivery Service for Mobility Travelers
   Managing your luggage while dealing with mobility challenges can be a major hassle. Our door-to-door luggage delivery service allows you to ship your luggage from your home to your destination, so you can travel hands-free and focus on your journey. Whether you’re flying abroad or travelling within the UK, our service ensures your luggage is delivered safely and on time.

Accessible Travel in the UK

1. UK Public Transport
   The UK is renowned for its accessible transport network. National Rail, and TfL (Transport for London) all provide services designed to support mobility travellers. Most train stations are equipped with ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets, but it’s wise to request assistance when booking your ticket.
   Buses across the UK are also accessible, with designated spaces for wheelchairs and low-floor buses for easier boarding.
2. Disabled Toilet Access – RADAR Key
   The RADAR key system grants access to over 9,000 locked disabled toilets across the UK. You can purchase this key online, providing you with the convenience of accessible restrooms in shopping centres, train stations, and parks. This is an essential tool for anyone travelling around the UK with mobility needs.
3. UK Mobility Hire Services
   Most towns and cities offer mobility hire services, especially in tourist regions. You can rent scooters, wheelchairs, or walkers through local suppliers or national companies. For example, Mobility Hire offers nationwide rentals for visitors to the UK. Always pre-book to ensure availability.
4. Take a door wedge: This can be really handy for keeping doors open where you are staying making movement easier and more accessible within your living space.

Travelling Abroad with Mobility Needs

1. Flying with a Wheelchair
   International air travel with mobility equipment requires careful preparation. Airlines typically store wheelchairs in the aircraft’s cargo hold, and passengers use an airport-provided chair to navigate through security and boarding. For peace of mind, check if your wheelchair will be waiting for you at the plane’s door upon arrival or delivered to the baggage claim area.
   Tip: Label your wheelchair clearly and request priority boarding to ensure you have time to get settled.
2. International Accessibility
   Accessibility abroad varies greatly by country. Western Europe and North America have strong infrastructure, but always verify transport options, attractions, and hotel accessibility directly. Major cities such as Paris, New York, and Berlin offer comprehensive mobility support with wheelchair-accessible buses, trams, and taxis. Apps like WheelMate can help you find accessible restrooms and parking spots in foreign cities.
3. Navigating Public Transport Abroad
   While some international cities offer well-developed, accessible public transport (like the New York Subway or Paris Metro), others may have more limitations. It’s best to research local transportation options in advance and, where possible, book wheelchair-accessible taxis to navigate cities.

Additional Travel Tips for Mobility Travelers

1. Travel Insurance
   Choose a travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and mobility equipment. For travellers with disabilities, look for policies that offer coverage in case of wheelchair damage or replacement needs.
2. Emergency Planning
   Have an emergency plan in place. Carry a list of important phone numbers (local emergency services, your hotel, family contacts), and keep this information easily accessible. If you have specific medical needs, consider wearing a medical alert bracelet that provides key health information.
3. Accessibility Apps
   Take advantage of mobile apps designed to make travel more accessible. WheelMate helps locate accessible toilets, Be My Eyes connects you with sighted volunteers for assistance, and Google Maps offers real-time information on accessible routes in many cities. These tools can make navigating unfamiliar areas much easier.

We found a great article with 16 more tips for travelling with a disability on The Times, which you can read online.

Why Choose Luggage Delivery Company for Your Mobility Travel?

At Luggage Delivery Company, we understand the importance of convenience and accessibility. Our global door-to-door luggage delivery service ensures that your luggage is picked up from your home and delivered directly to your destination. This means you can travel hands-free and focus on your journey without the burden of managing heavy bags. Our service is designed to be reliable, secure, and hassle-free, giving you peace of mind as you travel.

Traveling with mobility needs doesn’t have to be daunting. With careful planning and the right support, you can enjoy a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Let us take care of your luggage so that you can enjoy the journey stress free.

Booking is simple, with the lowest online prices available – you can send what you want and need rather than being restricted to airline weight limits.

Our courier will collect your luggage from your home and we will handle the rest. Your luggage will be waiting for you at your destination. Anywhere you want to go.