If you’re packing up for your next travel adventure, make sure you’re prepared with this easy guide.
Traveling during the holidays can be an exciting yet busy time. Some extra planning can help make the travel run smoothly. This easy guide provides tips to ensure you’re prepared and can enjoy your travel adventure to the fullest.
Book Early and Request Accessibility Features
Holiday destinations tend to be busier, and this means securing accessible accommodations or seats on planes or trains can be more challenging. When making hotel reservations, specify any accessibility needs, such as requesting a room with visual alarms. When making transportation reservations consider choosing seats that allow for better hearing device usage and visual accessibility to any helpful signage. Planning your trip well in advance will help ensure you have your choice of rooms, seats, and accommodations.
Plan Your Route and Transportation
Whether you’re flying or taking a road trip, mapping out your journey in advance can help you feel more prepared. For flights, consider downloading airline apps to receive updates via text or email. If you’re taking public transportation, check schedules and routes ahead of time and look for any delays or service changes that may affect your trip. Knowing what schedules are and what places have modified holiday hours can be an important planning step in your travel plans.
Communicate Your Needs
It can be helpful to inform hotel staff, tour guides, or travel companions about your hearing preferences. Letting people know that you may need to face them while speaking or that you rely on written communication can make interactions smoother. If you’re staying at a hotel, request any assistive devices they may offer, such as vibrating alarm clocks or visual doorbell alerts.
Check Holiday Hours and Event Schedules
Holiday schedules can vary, so it’s important to check the operating hours of any venues you plan to visit. Many stores, restaurants, and museums may have adjusted hours or special holiday events, so planning ahead prevents you from being caught off guard by unexpected closures.
Pack Extra Assistive Device Items
Bring along extra batteries, chargers, or any accessories you might need for your assistive listening devices. If you’re traveling internationally, make sure your devices are compatible with local power outlets, and carry a universal adapter if needed. It’s also a good idea to have a waterproof case or a travel pouch to keep your devices safe and dry during your journey.
Download Travel Apps for Assistance
There are several apps available that can assist with your travel experience. Map apps can help you navigate unfamiliar areas, while airline and hotel apps can provide notifications about delays, gate changes, or reservation details. You might also find speech-to-text apps useful for quick translations or converting spoken language into text in noisy environments.
Confirm Accessibility at Your Destination
Before you arrive, double-check that your destination is equipped with the accessibility features you require. Whether it’s confirming a reserved hotel room or ensuring that a tour offers assistive listening devices, verifying in advance helps prevent surprises and lets you relax and enjoy your trip.
When it comes to holiday travel, being proactive is key. Booking your accommodations, tickets, and reservations well in advance will help you avoid last-minute stress, especially since hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions can fill up quickly this time of year. With these tips, you’ll be ready for your next adventure. For more tips, go to the CapTel blog.
