Travelling with Special Needs: Tips and resources
Accessibility Travel: Making Holidays Work for Everyone
Planning a holiday should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Yet for many families and individuals with special needs, travel often feels more complex than carefree. That’s why Accessibility Travel matters.
With the right planning, resources, and support, you can enjoy memorable journeys that suit your needs while feeling confident and secure.
Understanding Accessibility Travel
Accessibility Travel covers far more than just wheelchair access. It includes support for travellers with mobility issues, visual or hearing impairments, neurodiverse conditions, or chronic illnesses. Everyone deserves a holiday that works for them, and that starts with being realistic about what you’ll need before leaving home.
When you start planning, ask yourself: what barriers do I want to avoid? It might be long airport queues, a hotel room that’s not designed for your needs, or activities that don’t feel inclusive. Writing these down helps you prioritise when we tailor your holiday.
Why Accessibility Travel Is Growing
More travellers are speaking openly about the need for inclusive holidays. Airlines, hotels, and tour operators are adapting, but there’s still inconsistency. That’s why working with an independent travel agency like Jamie Wake Travel can make such a difference.
We speak directly with suppliers, confirm accessibility features, and make sure nothing is left to chance. A resort may claim to be “accessible,” but that could mean anything from step-free entrances to fully adapted bathrooms. You deserve clarity before you arrive.
Accessibility Travel is no longer niche. It’s an essential part of tourism, and it’s our job to make sure your holiday is as smooth as it should be.
Preparing for Accessibility Travel
The first stage of any trip is planning. When special needs are involved, preparation is the key to reducing stress. You’ll want to think through transport, accommodation, insurance, and medical arrangements before making any bookings.
A good starting point is to make a checklist. Include:
- Mobility requirements, such as wheelchairs or walking aids
- Sensory considerations, such as quiet spaces or noise-cancelling headphones
- Dietary needs for medical or cultural reasons
- Medication management, including time zones and storage
- Communication tools, such as apps or printed cards
A clear list helps ensure that nothing is missed when we design your holiday.
Booking Flights with Accessibility in Mind
Airports can be daunting, but many now offer dedicated services for passengers with special needs. You can request assistance from the moment you arrive, including wheelchair escorts, fast-track boarding, and help during connections.
When booking flights through us, we notify the airline of your requirements. This avoids last-minute surprises at check-in. If you need extra legroom, space for mobility aids, or seating close to the toilet, we’ll arrange this in advance.
It’s also worth considering flight times. For some travellers, early-morning departures or late-night arrivals create extra stress. Choosing flight schedules that match your comfort can make the journey feel easier.
Choosing Accessible Accommodation
A hotel can make or break your holiday experience. Accessibility Travel means looking beyond the basics to make sure the property matches your needs.
When we recommend hotels, we ask direct questions about:
- Step-free access to rooms, restaurants, and leisure areas
- Bathroom layouts with grab rails or roll-in showers
- Bed heights suitable for transferring from a wheelchair
- Availability of adjoining rooms for carers or family members
- On-site medical support or nearby pharmacies
Let’s look at two examples of hotels that offer strong accessibility features.
Hotel Ilunion Málaga, Spain

This modern hotel in southern Spain is known for its inclusive approach. Rooms are spacious, bathrooms are adapted, and the property has level access throughout. The pool is equipped with a hoist, ensuring that swimming is open to everyone. The city’s flat promenades make daily exploring a pleasure.
At Jamie Wake Travel, we can access a wide range of offers for Hotel Ilunion Málaga, along with other properties in Spain. Speak with us to find the best deal for your travel dates.
Jamie Says:
“Every traveller deserves the same sense of wonder when they step into a new place. My advice is to never assume a hotel’s definition of ‘accessible’ will match your own. That’s why we speak directly to suppliers on your behalf. We make sure your holiday is designed for you, not just for the brochure.”

Travel Protections with Jamie Wake Travel
Peace of mind is just as important as a smooth itinerary. When you book with Jamie Wake Travel, your holiday is fully protected. As members of Protected Trust Services and holders of an ATOL licence, we guarantee that your money is secure.
Every tailor-made holiday we create includes both Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance. This means that if an airline or supplier ceases trading, you won’t be left stranded or out of pocket.
Accessibility Travel often involves coordinating multiple services. Flights, transfers, accommodation, and excursions may all come from different suppliers. With our protections in place, you can relax knowing every part of your journey is financially safeguarded.
Destinations That Welcome Accessibility Travel
Not all destinations are equal when it comes to inclusivity. Some cities and resorts have invested heavily in creating environments where everyone can explore with confidence. Here are a few that stand out:
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is widely praised for its accessibility. The city’s public transport system is almost entirely step-free, including buses, metro lines, and taxis. The beach at Barceloneta even has adapted walkways, changing areas, and assisted bathing services. Combined with the cultural treasures of Gaudí’s architecture, Barcelona is a favourite for inclusive travel.
We can tailor your Barcelona stay with accessible hotels, private tours, and even assistance at attractions. Our supplier network ensures we match your needs with the right experiences.
Orlando, Florida
Orlando is home to world-famous theme parks, and accessibility is a core part of the visitor experience. Disney and Universal both offer detailed services for guests with disabilities, including priority access passes and adapted ride seating. Beyond the parks, the city has many wheelchair-friendly hotels and entertainment venues.
Booking through Jamie Wake Travel means we handle the details. From special airport transfers to adapted accommodation near the parks, we’ll make sure your Orlando holiday feels seamless.
Navigating Excursions and Activities
A holiday is more than hotels and flights — it’s about the experiences you take home. Excursions, guided tours, and local activities should be accessible too. That’s where planning ahead makes all the difference.
When arranging excursions, we ask:
- Are tour buses fitted with ramps or lifts?
- Do museums and galleries have audio guides or tactile exhibits?
- Are outdoor activities adapted for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility?
- Are group sizes flexible for those who need extra time?
Examples include vineyard tours in Italy with step-free access, adapted river cruises in Germany, or wildlife safaris in South Africa that use specially designed vehicles. These experiences show that Accessibility Travel doesn’t mean compromise — it means inclusion.
Practical Tips for Accessibility Travel
Even the smallest details can make a big difference when travelling with special needs. Preparing these in advance reduces stress and makes the holiday feel smoother.
Key tips include:
- Pack a folder with all medical documents, prescriptions, and insurance details.
- Carry extra medication in your hand luggage, not just in checked bags.
- Use apps for translation, visual aids, or navigation support.
- If sensory challenges are involved, carry earplugs, weighted blankets, or fidget tools.
- Allow more time for airport transfers and hotel check-ins.
Remember: your comfort is just as important as your destination.
More Destinations for Accessibility Travel
London, United Kingdom
London has steadily improved its accessibility. Step-free access is now available at many Underground stations, and iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London and the British Museum offer comprehensive facilities for visitors with disabilities. The city’s hotels range from boutique stays to large chains with adapted rooms.
At Jamie Wake Travel, we can arrange accessible theatre trips in the West End, guided city tours with personal assistance, and hotel stays close to the attractions you want most.
Tenerife, Canary Islands
Tenerife has positioned itself as one of Europe’s leading accessible destinations. Many beaches are adapted with ramps, wooden walkways, and amphibious chairs. Resorts are designed with step-free access, and several waterparks and attractions include adapted rides.
One standout property is Hotel Mar y Sol, located in Los Cristianos. This resort is dedicated to accessibility, with fully adapted rooms, pools with hoists, and staff trained in supporting guests with mobility needs.
We work with Hotel Mar y Sol and other Tenerife resorts to secure the right package for your trip, including transfers and excursions tailored to your requirements.
Travelling as a Family with Special Needs
Family holidays should be joyful, but when one member has additional needs, the planning can feel more complex. Parents often worry about whether siblings will still enjoy the trip or whether the pace will work for everyone.
The solution is balance. Choosing destinations with both inclusive activities and flexible downtime ensures that no one feels left out. For example:
- Theme parks with quiet rooms for children who need a break
- Museums with sensory-friendly opening hours
- Resorts offering kids’ clubs adapted for different abilities
By discussing these concerns in advance, we create itineraries that meet the needs of the whole family.
Medical Support While Travelling
One of the biggest concerns for travellers with special needs is medical access abroad. Nobody wants to think about emergencies, but having a plan is essential.
We advise clients to:
- Carry European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) where relevant
- Check whether travel insurance covers pre-existing conditions
- Ask hotels about proximity to hospitals or clinics
- Bring medical alert bracelets or cards in the local language
- Inform airlines of any equipment that needs carrying or storing
Accessibility Travel is about making sure your health is supported as much as your holiday enjoyment. Knowing that local care is available offers peace of mind to both travellers and their families.
Independent Travel vs Guided Support
One of the most common questions we hear is whether travellers with special needs should plan fully independent trips or choose guided support. The answer depends on your confidence, preferences, and the type of holiday you’re dreaming of.
Independent travel can offer more flexibility. You choose when to wake, what to explore, and how long to stay at each stop. Many destinations now provide resources like accessible maps, adapted transport, and audio guides that make self-guided exploration easier.
Guided support, on the other hand, provides reassurance. A dedicated guide or tour leader can assist with logistics, communicate with local providers, and ensure activities remain inclusive. This option works especially well for first-time trips abroad, group travel, or more complex itineraries that include multiple destinations.
At Jamie Wake Travel, we help you decide what suits you best. Sometimes, the perfect solution is a mix — a partly independent trip with a few guided excursions built in. The goal is simple: a holiday that feels both enjoyable and manageable.
Making Accessibility Travel Your Reality
Planning a holiday with special needs doesn’t have to feel daunting. With the right support, every traveller can enjoy the same sense of freedom, discovery, and joy. That’s why working with Jamie Wake Travel makes such a difference.
We’re an independent travel agency, proud to be members of Protected Trust Services and holders of an ATOL licence. Every tailor-made holiday we create includes Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance, so your journey is safe from start to finish.
You can call us on 01495 400005 to talk through your ideas, or use the enquiry form on our website. If you prefer, you can also design and book your own bespoke holiday directly through our search tool — available on every page of our website. These holidays are created to be “as unique as you are.”

And remember, we’re always just a call or message away if you’d rather leave the planning to us.
Accessibility Travel is about making sure nothing stands between you and the holiday you deserve. Let us make that happen for you.
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