I’m flying alone as a solo full-time wheelchair user! I’ve not been able to manage how to push my suitcase and myself at the same time! Any tips? Would also appreciate some tips on how to keep my chair safe as it’s a custom fit chair and my lifeline.
I’m flying American Airlines with two short connecting flights back to back.
Well, you can call in advance or request special assistance under your reservation online and mention you have a wheelchair; they will take care of everything. Also, mention that you have connecting flights. You will be fine. Safe flights!
@Deen
I’ve already got them requested but I didn’t mention my connections so thank you!!
I have used airport assistance when I had a leg injury and it worked flawlessly. Just go to the airline’s website and follow directions for requesting assistance. Don’t wait until the last minute. Try to book assistance at least 48 hours before your flights.
@Sage
I’ve got it booked now and I leave in about two weeks so I hope that’s enough time!
Nova said:
@Sage
I’ve got it booked now and I leave in about two weeks so I hope that’s enough time!
You’ll be fine!
Staff will help. Don’t be afraid to ask, that’s what they are there for. Hell, most 25-45 year old dudes will help with most physical constraints if you just ask. It’s not a problem and most people are kind.
If you’re asking about accessibility, I have no idea, but if you’re self-conscious about mobility, I wouldn’t worry about it at all.
Having worked in tourism and travel, I’ve seen thousands of people too afraid to ask for a hand, or too awkward or afraid to offer one. Just ask, and for the others, just offer. I swear it’s no big deal and the vast majority of the time it’s a good interaction for all involved.
Golden rule, it’s that simple, and most are game for it.
@AdamZane4
Your first sentence is what I came to say too. 100% don’t be afraid to ask for help.
@AdamZane4
I appreciate it, genuinely! Asking for help can be very daunting so it’s nice to see that so many people would help 
Seriously, watch the latest season of 90 Day Fiancé Before the 90 Days. Brian is in a wheelchair and he travels all over. I was seriously tonight just thinking of how well he manages to maneuver as he gets around. Odd suggestion, I know but you can see a lot of examples in action as his scenes. Best wishes!
@West
Wait that’s so cool! I’ll definitely be taking a look, thank you!
AirTag the wheelchair, most of all, and everything else if you can. As others have said contact the airline and they’ll set everything up. Check the bags if you can - two layovers is rough but it’ll be okay. I once traveled after emergency surgery (the travel was a separate emergency, what a month) and people were tripping over themselves to help me when I had a spouse right there with me. Once you arrive it should be more like your regular travel for ground transport and hotels. Hope you have a wonderful trip!
My dad travels a lot (but with my mom). His life hack is he has this electric third wheel thing that attaches to the front of his manual wheelchair that lifts up the two little wheels and turns the push chair into an electric tricycle/scooter. Now he has a hand free. This thing also increases the ability to travel on rough terrain with ease, much easier than you would expect with your regular manual chair.
There’s also electric big wheels that all you have to do is tap the hand bars and off they go.
Of course, all this costs money to own, but it’s so far been the best bang for buck and weight that he’s had so far.
Neither of these things are quick solutions, but they are solutions that extend beyond the airport and just asking for help. Dad has a fused spine so he can’t twist to get at a backpack. So I didn’t suggest that.
@Palmer
I did just get Smart Drive, so it’s like a third wheel attachment that helps push!
Nova said:
@Palmer
I did just get Smart Drive, so it’s like a third wheel attachment that helps push!
That’s the one that goes behind you and gives you 5 wheels, right? Does it help enough for freeing up your hands at the airport etc?
I am sure OP appreciates all the feedback about asking for assistance and/or the assistance that can be provided by the airline/airport. Thing is OP will be traveling beyond that.
Kaius said:
I am sure OP appreciates all the feedback about asking for assistance and/or the assistance that can be provided by the airline/airport. Thing is OP will be traveling beyond that.
Yes! That is true as well Solo traveling as a 24f in a wheelchair full time has got me stressed so I’m looking for all the tips I can get lol.
Maybe a soft-sided duffel on your lap. Then put it on like a backpack when you board.
Request airport assistance from your airline carrier.
A bag you can have on your lap. Or book a package where staff from the firm say they will take your luggage to your room.