With the holidays approaching, Mandy Lattimore shares tips for road and air travel
The annual summer vacation season is fast approaching, and as you prepare to make the big move to various holiday destinations or simply travel back home to visit family, you need to consider various important factors to ensure a smooth journey.
If you’re traveling domestically, make sure your driver’s license is valid. If you’re traveling internationally, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your return date. All visas and permits must be in order.
Travel insurance is highly recommended and there are several insurance options available even for domestic travel, please contact your local travel agent or me for advice.
Accessible accommodation can be found on various websites, the best local websites are www.disabledtravel.co.za and www.booking.com. When searching for accommodation, be sure to set filters, such as step-free shower.
Look closely at the different photos to see what amenities you need, and always call the accommodation directly to discuss your individual needs. You can access articles about accommodations on the Rolling Inspiration website, which are always accessible on a regular basis.
QASA will also provide information about centres where you can rent mobility equipment (such as transfer boards and commode wheelchairs) and beaches where you can rent beach wheelchairs.
Here are my top 10 tips for road and air travel.
Road Trip
At least two weeks before your trip, check whether your car will need servicing during the trip. Some manufacturers are very strict about their maintenance plans and if you exceed the mileage covered by the servicing, you will have to pay for the servicing. Book your car early and have it serviced before you travel. Also check the hand controls to make sure everything is in order. A breakdown service card is a must. Your insurance company may have roadside assistance, but you can also get an AA membership and card. The day before your trip, make sure you fill up your car with fuel and check the oil and tyre pressure. Clean the windscreen and make sure the washer water container is full. Check the weather on the day of your trip and dress accordingly. Bring a tracksuit if it’s cool and sunglasses and short sleeves if it’s hot. Plan your route and stops in advance. Most major petrol stations have toilets. Get plenty of rest before you set off. Have a toll, garage or credit card ready. Drive within your capabilities. It is better to stay in the slow lane than to feel pressured to go faster in the other lane. Eat plenty and drink plenty of water. If you feel tired, find a gas station, stop and get out of your car. On hot days, bring a spray bottle of water in your car to help cool you down. Remember to fasten your seat belt.
Air Travel Tips
When booking your flight online, make sure the date and time are correct. Check if there is a form you can fill out to receive assistance. Contact the airline immediately and ask a call centre agent for assistance. Tell the agent what type of mobility aid you are using. You have the right to remain in your own wheelchair until you board the plane and when you disembark. If staff mistakenly send your wheelchair to the terminal, you can request that they bring it to you. If you are driving to the airport, contact the Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) for discounted parking rates as most long-term car parks are not serviced by accessible buses. An alternative is to use a parking service that will collect and store your car and bring it to you when you return. Mark your checked-in luggage with a coloured ribbon or tag for easy identification. Make sure you arrive at the airport and check in 90 minutes before for domestic flights and 3 hours before for international flights. Be escorted airside and be near the boarding gate or in the area allocated for boarding at the Passenger Assistance Unit (PAU). Allow yourself plenty of time to use the toilet before boarding. Keep your boarding pass with you at all times. Do not let support staff hand over your boarding pass as they may take it away. Communication is key.
Planning ahead will make your trip more enjoyable, and remember that your vacation begins the moment you leave home.
Happy holidays and travel.
