Navigating an airport can be stressful for any traveler—especially if you deal with flight anxiety or a fear of flying. Add a disability and a lack of preparation, and your trip might get off to a rocky start.
Here are some travel tips to help you navigate the airport, your luggage, and the plane ride with confidence.
I once remember my flight landing, and passengers began unbuckling and pulling down their carry-on bags.
I waited patiently with a magazine in hand until an older man stopped next to me, smiled, and said, “Ladies first,” motioning for me to go ahead.
Only then did I realize—he didn’t know I was paralyzed.
I kindly told him I used a wheelchair and was waiting for it to be brought onboard.
I knew the ins and outs of flying with a disability, but I hadn’t realized how unfamiliar others might be with the process.
Luggage
Traveling with a disability often requires creativity. Luggage is no exception.
For short trips, I prefer a duffle bag—it fits well on my lap and is easy to grab from the conveyor belt.
For longer trips, I use a rolling suitcase. The most common question I get is: “How do you wheel your suitcase and push yourself?”
It’s simpler than you’d think. I pull out the suitcase handle and attach it to a bar on the back of my wheelchair using a large carabiner clip.
Just like a truck towing a trailer, I tow my suitcase. It’s fun to see the surprised looks I get as I glide through the airport.
The first time I tried it, I didn’t factor in my turning radius. I turned too quickly and ran over someone’s foot.
Unfortunately, it was a really attractive guy’s foot. Lesson learned: wide turns only!
Pre-Boarding
Pre-boarding means getting on the plane early due to a disability or need for assistance. It’s definitely a perk.
When booking your flight, you can indicate if you need special assistance. At the airport, they’ll tag your wheelchair and give you a claim stub.
Once you go through security, check in at the gate. This alerts the staff that you’ll need to pre-board.
You’ll receive a boarding pass with an extra slip of paper noting your status and time to board—usually 20 minutes before general boarding.
The only downside? Pre-boarding passengers are typically the last to deplane.
Getting Personal With Security
“Ma’am, I’m going to pat down your body using the backs of my hands in sensitive areas.”
Wait, what? That was my first experience with a TSA pat-down. It felt uncomfortable at first.
Wheelchairs can’t go through full-body scanners, so pat-downs are the alternative. They take a few extra minutes since they require an attendant.
If you feel uncomfortable, you can request a private screening. But in my experience, there’s nothing to fear.
Just remember: the TSA agent is probably just as excited about the situation as you are (read: not very).
Aisle Chairs
So, how do you actually board the plane? That depends on the airline and the plane size.
On some Southwest flights, I’ve wheeled right into the cabin and transferred into the first row.
On smaller planes, or those with assigned seats, you’ll use an aisle chair—a narrow, portable seat used to get to your assigned seat.
In the terminal, you transfer into the aisle chair, and a flight attendant will push you onto the plane. One way or another, you’ll get on board.
Length of Flight
Flying with a disability means planning for comfort and health. Each person’s needs will vary.
If you use a wheelchair, keep your cushion with you in the cabin. Cushions can get lost or damaged in cargo.
Also, sit on your cushion if you’re prone to pressure sores. It’s a smart and simple step.
Restroom access is another thing to consider. Short flights are fine, but international flights can be a challenge.
If going without a restroom for 10 hours sounds impossible, consider booking a layover. This gives you time to use a bathroom in the terminal.
If you need to go mid-flight, a flight attendant can bring you the aisle chair and wheel you to the restroom.
Just note: you’ll need to transfer yourself—flight attendants can’t assist with lifting.
As with anything, practice helps. Over time, you’ll figure out what works best for you.
Keep an open mind—and get ready to explore the world with confidence!
This is the second article in an original Epicure & Culture series, The Wheel Deal, which explores how to travel and have immersive global experiences with a physical disability. We hope it inspires you to see the world, no matter the challenges.
