Tips and Tricks for Planning an Accessible Road Trip

There’s nothing quite like the freedom of the open road, from discovering new landscapes to enjoying scenic coastlines and historic cities. For wheelchair users and their carers, planning a road trip across the UK can be an exciting yet challenging endeavor. But with careful preparation and the right equipment, your summer road trip can be smooth and accessible.

Here are some essential tips and tricks to help wheelchair users plan an accessible road trip with ease.

Choose the Right Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV)

Your vehicle is the foundation of your trip. Look for a WAV that not only offers enough space and comfort but has all the accessibility features you might need to make travel easier, such as a lightweight ramp, electric-assist winch and secure restraints.

Whether you’re looking to hire a wheelchair accessible vehicle or buy a new WAV or used WAV, we have a wide range of mobility cars to suit different needs and group sizes. If you’re planning on taking a long road trip with the whole family, or a short trip to the nearest city, our friendly mobility advisors are on hand to help find the perfect wheelchair accessible car for you and your plans. Get in touch by calling the number at the top of the page for advice or to arrange a free, no-obligation, home demonstration.

Ensure Your Vehicle is Serviced Before You Go

The best way to make sure your mobility car is road ready all year round is by keeping on top of your annual vehicle service which ensures everything is in safe working order.

The good news is, as an Allied Mobility customer, you can have your WAV serviced right outside your front door thanks to HomeStay™ mobile servicing*.

One of our qualified automotive mechanics will come to your home on a day that suits you and examine things like your brakes and tyres, change your engine oil and vital lubricants if required and attend to a full list of checks designed to keep everything running smoothly.

You don’t have to wait until your service is due – we’ll note your details and take care of everything when your service date does come round. We’ll even send a handy reminder of when your vehicle service will be carried out!

Plan Your Route and Book Accommodation with Accessibility in Mind

To make travel comfortable, research these stops along your route: 

• Disabled parking for wheelchair accessible vehicles and Blue Badge holders.
• Accessible toilets including Changing Places where available.
• Call the hotel(s) ahead to ask about door widths, ramp access, lift access and other features you need.
• Have alternative routes or stops in mind and make sure everyone has mobile phones and emergency contacts.

Website and apps like AccessAble or Blue Badge Parking help you find accessible facilities across the UK.

Pack Smart

Make a check list of all the things you will need for the trip, such as 

• Chargers or batteries for wheelchairs.
• Spare parts or tools.
• Medications.
• Cushions or comfort aids.

Related Blogs

Blogs you may find helpful:

• Things to Do in Your Hire WAV This Summer!
• Tips and Tricks for Driving Your WAV During the Summer.
• Discover the Joy of Accessible Gardening Across the UK.
• Accessible Museums to visit in the UK
• Book Your HomeStay™ Mobile Service.

Safe travels and stay cool!

*Mobile servicing available for Ford, Peugeot (with the exception of ehorizon™) and Citroën WAVs on the Motability Scheme. For other manufacturers, we’ll arrange your vehicle service with your local garage. Vehicle service charges apply as standard for WAVs purchased outright.