Nothing could be cheerier than when the holidays roll around! For many Americans, the prospect of being able travel and see their loved ones is what makes this the most magical time of the year. But, if you’re living with limited mobility, travel can sometimes be tricky. For today’s blog post, we’re going to cover how you can prepare to navigate an airport if you have limited mobility:

• Arrive early

It’s always stressful when you have to feel rushed during a trip, but there are always additional things you have to account for when you’re traveling with limited mobility. Things such as getting an airport wheelchair, communicating with airport personnel about what you need and using the handicap bathroom before the flight can all take up additional time.

• Ask a wheelchair ahead of time

You can reserve a wheelchair when you book your flight, and this will ensure one will be ready for you when you check-in. Opt to have an airport employee push you instead of wheeling yourself—this will save you energy for the rest of the trip. Make sure you tip the employee as well ($5 is the standard).

• Use the bathroom before you board

Airplane bathrooms are hard to maneuver even with fully mobile individuals.  Use the handicap-accessible bathroom before the flight starts.

• Prepare for a pat-down

If you’re unable to use the metal detectors because of hip or joint replacements, the TSA will pat you down and check your wheelchair for explosives. They will also ask you to remove your shoes, which can add time to your travel.

• Choose a spot near the front of the plane when you make your reservation

Many airplane employees will reserve seats near the front for the physically handicapped, so you may not need to have first-class tickets to get one of these. Politely ask the employees if there is anything they can do for you. They may not be able to, but it doesn’t hurt to communicate!

• Time your boarding

You want to be with either the first or last wave. Most places will let the physically challenged board first, but if you miss that, board with the last wave. It saves you from having people pile in around you as you get out of your wheelchair and into your seat.

The holidays truly are a wonderful time of the year, and we hope you’re able spend it with the people you care about. Before you book your flight, check out the mobility products we have in our online catalog.