Paul McKenzie, aka Macca, racked up over 6,000 kilometers driving around Australia’s east coast with a travel companion and his dog. He’s a C5-6 complete quadriplegic power wheelchair user, who does his own manual transfers (with his partner to assist when needed). “It has so far been a fantastic time with only a couple of hiccups,” Macca explains.
The keys to a successful road trip as a wheelchair user:
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Plan ahead. “Once on the road don’t be afraid of taking the odd risk, like moving onto the next place if the room isn’t suitable,” Macca explains. “We’ve been able to find great accommodation very last minute as a result of unexpected hitches like unsuitable bathrooms or bed heights.”
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Don’t settle. If the hotel employee says a room or hotel “should” be fine because they’ve had other wheelchairs stay before, “say thank you and keep on looking,” Macca advises.
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Try the local information centre. They may have helpful resources for people with disabilities, but don’t be discouraged if they don’t. “At the very least you’ll encourage them to prepare something for the next person to come in,” he shares.
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Due digital due diligence. Use internet sites to book and when possible, request an employee video chats you to show you the bathroom ahead of time.
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Ask questions. You know what you need best. Don’t be afraid to ask about bed height, door handles, etc. when booking.
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Double confirm. Have the hotel employee put on a note on your reservation so your room can’t be changed by hotel staff without your knowledge.
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Carry portable ramps. “We have two rubber ramps, one small 5cm high to smooth out the square edges on ramps mostly, and one larger,” Macca explains. They’ve been a life-saver. “We also carry a set of bed height adjusters and mattress egg shells.”
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Check beach accessibility. “If…there’s soft sand in your way before you get to the harder packed stuff, ask at the local surf lifesaving club if they have a roll out mat,” Macca suggests. It’s also worth checking if beach wheelchairs are available.
Remember that everyone’s accessibility needs are different, so your experience will vary, but with this, you have a solid list to start planning the road trip of your dreams!