As school gets started, I start to think about all the things we have to look forward to in the fall and winter. One of my favorite things about those seasons is spending time with friends and family over the holidays. I know that for some of you traveling to see loved ones can be very challenging. So I want to share some strategies that may make a trip more manageable for your whole family. In the next couple of posts I will talk about preparing for your trip and dealing with challenges while you are away. But I thought I would start with making the arrangements for your travel and stay, away from home.

First, it’s important to consider which form of transportation will work best for your family. If it is reasonable for you to drive, being in a vehicle that is familiar to you and your family can be a good first step along your journey to a great trip. However if you feel it would be necessary to fly there are ways to make that work as well. Here is a great website that will answer just about all of your questions regarding accommodations your special traveler might need.

http://specialchildren.about.com/od/inthecommunity/qt/airlineinfo.htm

If you will need a vehicle specially equipped for your families needs at your destination there are some wonderful service providers that can help you with that too. Many car rental companies offer vehicles that have been modified for use by drivers or passengers with mobility issues. Check out the web sites below, they off links to information specifically about renal car disability accommodations.

http://specialchildren.about.com/od/travelwithspecialneeds/qt/rentalcar.htm

http://www.wheelchairgetaways.com/

http://www.wheelersvanrentals.com/

One other option that we tend to over look is a train. Although the train is usually not as fast as flying or driving, it can be great alternative for travelers that need hands on care. The site below has information on traveling by train in the U.S. for people with special needs, including making reservations for accessible space, station accessibility, service animals, onboard communication, and meal services.

http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&cid=1241245658299

One more thing to consider is where you will stay. Would it be more comfortable to stay at a loved ones home? Or do you think having space to call your own would work best? I know that this last question may be the hardest. But it may also be the determining factor in how well your trip turns out. Make your decision base on your families needs not on other peoples feelings. If you do choose to stay at a hotel, I am leaving you with a great link to a list of hotels that have a reputation for accommodating special requests.

http://www.accesstravelcenter.com/hotels.cfm

Hope this information helps you, check back next week as I continue the conversation on Travel.

* information and links provided by Helping Hand 2012 Special Needs Vacation guide .