Having spina bifida doesn’t mean your travel dreams have to stay grounded. With thoughtful planning and the right mindset, you can explore exciting destinations and create lasting memories.
This article covers key aspects of successful travel with spina bifida — from understanding your unique needs and choosing accessible destinations to managing transportation logistics and packing essential medical supplies. With practical strategies, travel becomes not just manageable but truly rewarding.
Understanding your travel needs
Before booking a trip, assess your specific needs and capabilities. Spina bifida affects everyone differently, so your travel plan should reflect your individual situation. Consider your mobility level, assistive devices, bladder or bowel management requirements and other medical considerations.
Think about the activities you most want to enjoy. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring museums or relaxing on beaches, understanding your priorities helps you choose destinations that match your interests and accessibility needs.
Don’t let concerns about limitations discourage you. Many destinations offer adaptive equipment rentals, accessible tours and specialized services. Involve your health care team early in the planning process — your nurse can offer insights into managing your condition in different climates or time zones.
Choosing accessible destinations
Some destinations are naturally better suited for accessible travel. Major cities often have well-developed public transportation, accessible attractions and accommodations designed with mobility needs in mind. Places like San Diego, Seattle, Washington, D.C., Australia and many European nations are known for their accessibility features.
When researching destinations, look beyond tourist attractions. Consider terrain, weather patterns and infrastructure. A mountain village may offer stunning views, but steep cobblestone streets could pose challenges. Some beach destinations have accessible boardwalks and beach wheelchairs, while others may have limited access points. Don’t overlook nearby options — national and state parks often feature accessible trails, camping facilities and visitor centers designed for people with disabilities.
Finding the right accommodations
Your choice of accommodations can make or break your travel experience. Look beyond basic accessibility features and consider amenities that support comfort and independence.
Don’t rely solely on online accessibility symbols when booking hotels. Call directly to discuss your specific needs. Ask detailed questions about room layouts, bathroom configurations, bed heights and accessibility of common areas such as restaurants and pools.
Consider proximity to attractions and services you plan to visit. Look for accommodations near accessible transit lines or within reasonable distance of your activities. Vacation rentals may be ideal for longer stays, offering kitchen facilities for dietary needs and more space for medical equipment.
Document your accommodation needs in writing when making reservations. This creates a record of your requirements and helps the property managers meet your needs before arrival.
Planning transportation
Transportation planning requires attention to mobility needs and destination infrastructure. Air travel offers the broadest options and generally provides strong accessibility protections under federal law.
When flying, notify airlines of your needs during the booking process. Airlines can assist with boarding, deplaning and navigating airports. Research accessibility features of the airports you’ll use, including accessible routes and restroom locations.
Ground transportation also requires research. Many American cities offer accessible public transit, ride-sharing services with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and specialized transportation services. If renting a car, many companies like Enterprise offer vehicles with hand controls or adaptive equipment — reserve these well in advance.
Train travel can be scenic and accessible, with Amtrak and many international rail systems offering accommodations for travelers with disabilities.
Packing medical supplies
Find the right balance between being prepared and packing light. Create a list of everything you need, then organize supplies by importance and frequency of use.
When traveling, it’s important to bring a complete list of all current medications or travel with all current medications in their prescription bottles in case of emergency. Pack essential daily medications and supplies in carry-on luggage to have access if checked bags are delayed. Bring extra supplies and medications beyond your trip length in case of unexpected delays.
Research medical supply availability at your destination. Some items may be available locally, allowing you to pack lighter. Carry documentation from your health care provider explaining your medical needs and equipment requirements.
Organize supplies in clear, labeled containers to ease security screening. Consider packing supplies in multiple bags so you’re not left without essentials if one is lost.
Managing mobility and personal care
Think ahead about navigating different environments and participating in activities. Research terrain and surfaces you’ll encounter — cobblestones, sand, grass and steep inclines all present unique challenges. Some destinations offer beach wheelchair rentals or all-terrain mobility devices.
Plan for fatigue and energy management. Build flexibility into your itinerary and avoid overpacking your schedule. Research accessibility of specific attractions — many attractions offer detailed information, adaptive equipment loans or specialized programs.
For bathroom and personal care needs, research restroom availability along your planned routes. If you manage bladder or bowel functions with specific routines, plan how to maintain them while traveling, considering time zone changes and access to private facilities.
Preparing for unexpected challenges
Even with careful planning, travel can present surprises. Create a communication plan with contact information for health care providers, accommodations, transportation services and emergency contacts.
Research local resources at your destination, including medical facilities, pharmacies and disability service organizations. Consider travel insurance that covers trip disruptions and medical needs; some policies specifically address travelers with disabilities.
Pack a basic toolkit for minor equipment repairs and develop communication strategies for explaining your needs to unfamiliar service providers.
Depending on the severity of your condition, you may benefit from personalized home health care or personal care services. Maxim Healthcare has more than 150 locations nationwide offering services designed to improve quality of life. Contact your local office to learn more about available options.
