Accessibility labels are broad; measurements allow a traveller to compare a room with their chair, transfers and daily routine. Create a personal list before contacting hotels.
Guide topic: Hotels
Why this needs planning
Record the narrowest clear doorway, lift door and cabin size, bed height, floor space beside the bed, toilet height and transfer space, shower threshold and seat dimensions.
Make a distinction between an essential requirement and a preference. Essential arrangements should be accepted by the organisation responsible for delivering them and retained in writing with the booking reference.
The issue travellers often miss
Published room diagrams may not show movable furniture or the accessible entrance. Request recent photographs with a tape measure visible where possible.
Ask a precise question, name the equipment or assistance involved and request measurements or photographs where they would remove doubt. Reconfirm shortly before departure because staff, facilities and operating procedures can change.
Practical checklist
- Measure the traveller’s equipment first
- Ask for clear—not frame—door width
- Confirm bed movement
- Check both sides of the toilet
- Trace the entire step-free route
Keep a written record
Save emails, quotations, specifications, photographs and named contacts somewhere available without mobile data. If the answer affects safety or determines whether the trip is possible, do not rely only on a telephone conversation.
Build a backup plan
Consider what the traveller would do if equipment is delayed, a lift is unavailable, an accessible vehicle does not arrive or assistance is different from that requested. A realistic alternative may be another route, a local provider, an adapted taxi or a companion with the correct information—not an unsafe workaround.
Important
Mobility Abroad provides independent preparation guidance. Policies, facilities and individual needs vary, so obtain current confirmation from the airline, accommodation, transport company, attraction or equipment provider responsible for the service.
Before you travel
Reconfirm all important arrangements directly with the airline, hotel, transfer company or equipment provider. Requirements and facilities can change.