A wheelchair accessible vehicle opens up the whole country, but a holiday can fall apart if the place you’re staying isn’t as accessible as the listing claims. Many booking sites carry little real accessibility information, so a bit of research before you book makes all the difference.
Picturesque places like Cornwall’s fishing villages are a good example: narrow lanes, older cottages, steps everywhere and tight parking. They can still work brilliantly, but only if you ask the right questions first.
Questions to ask before you book
Getting in and around
- Is there step-free access from the parking space to the front door, and inside to the bedroom and bathroom?
- How wide are the doorways? (Measure your chair and quote the number.)
- Are there any steps, thresholds or slopes, and how steep?
Parking for your WAV
- Is there a dedicated space, on level ground?
- Is there room behind the vehicle to lower a rear ramp and wheel off? Allow around 2 metres, but check your own vehicle.
- Is there height clearance if the parking is covered?
Bathroom and bedroom
- Is there a roll-in or level-access shower, a shower seat and grab rails?
- Where are the shower controls and the toilet, relative to transfer space?
- What is the bed height, and is there space for a hoist?
Other needs
- Does the room have a hearing loop, visual alarms or an accessible phone?
- Can they hire in equipment such as a hoist, commode or profiling bed?
Ask for photos or a video of the actual room, not just the building.
Assistance dogs
Under the Equality Act 2010, hotels, holiday lets and other businesses generally can’t refuse an assistance dog. It’s still worth telling them in advance, so they can plan space and somewhere for the dog to sleep.
Getting around once you’re there
- Buses: most UK buses are low-floor or “kneeling” with a wheelchair space.
- Trains: book Passenger Assist in advance and staff will help you on and off.
- Toilets: the Changing Places map shows toilets with a hoist and adult-sized changing bench. A RADAR key opens thousands of accessible toilets nationwide.
- Attractions: reviews from disabled visitors on sites such as Euan’s Guide give an honest picture.
Before you set off
A long trip is the time to give your WAV a once-over: tyres, fluids, and a check that the ramp, winch and restraints all work. See how to check your fluid levels, and pack your Blue Badge and parking clock (Blue Badge rules).
Need a WAV for your next trip?
If your current vehicle isn’t up to a long journey, browse our used WAVs or call 0333 200 8593. We’ll help you find one that fits your chair and your family.
We don’t offer hire or lease on our wheelchair accessible vehicles, but if you’re buying ahead of a holiday, tell us your travel date and we’ll arrange for your vehicle to be ready in time.