Travelling with a disability is still far from easy – but slowly, things are changing

There have been many setbacks, but at last, the future of accessible travel may be approaching a critical turning point

Copy link
twitter
facebook
whatsapp
email
Copy link
twitter
facebook
whatsapp
email
The recent closure of Revitalise, a leading UK provider of respite holidays for disabled people, marked a significant setback for the disabled community. And as rising costs and dwindling donations force such essential services to shut down, it raises a broader concern: is the travel industry truly committed to accessibility, or are disabled travellers still being left behind?
There are promising signs, like last week’s establishment of a new government Aviation Accessibility Task and Finish Group – headed up by Paralympic champion Baroness Grey-Thompson – which will tackle travel challenges for disabled people. But despite this development, the fact remains that the need for true accessibility across the travel industry is now more urgent than ever.
As a wheelchair user I’ve had numerous experiences of “access washing” – when businesses claim accessibility but fail to deliver on basic needs. From “just one step” at an entrance, to accessible toilets being used as storage cupboards, a deeper issue is reflected: accessibility is not taken seriously as a genuine commitment. True accessibility requires more than token gestures; it demands a holistic approach to understanding diverse needs.
“One of the biggest challenges disabled travellers face today is the inconsistency in accessibility standards across countries and even within cities and regions,” explains Silvia Causin, the owner of Accessible Travel Netherlands. “It’s not just physical barriers but a lack of training for staff across the entire tourism chain.”
Without proper training, even well-meaning staff can unintentionally cause stress or discomfort, turning what should be a smooth travel experience into a frustrating ordeal.
Despite the ongoing challenges, there are encouraging signs of progress. Companies like Limitless Travel are working to provide genuinely accessible experiences, with optional care packages for those who need more support.
“We strive to overcome these challenges, but we can’t do it alone,” says Angus Drummond, the CEO of Limitless Travel. “We’ve developed a reputation for exceptional service by focusing on the individual needs of our guests, ensuring they can travel without stress, worry or fear.”
The ability to travel without worry or fear hinges on having clear, reliable information and TUI’s recent launch of Detailed Access Guides across 200 of its hotels aims to provide exactly that. These guides offer detailed and verified information on accessibility features, from room layouts to available facilities, allowing disabled travellers to make informed decisions and reducing uncertainty. TUI’s initiative sets a positive example, showing that accessible travel is not just a niche concern but a key part of their broader hospitality offering.
Cities, too, are stepping up. Rotterdam, praised by Lydia Wilkins, a freelance journalist and frequent traveller, has earned a reputation for its modern infrastructure, making it a favourite among disabled travellers. “Rotterdam is flat, easy to navigate, and quiet,” she says. “I keep coming back for this reason!”
Similarly, Barcelona has made strides with accessible beaches, transport and sensory-friendly spaces in museums, showcasing how inclusivity can be seamlessly integrated into city planning.
As accessibility becomes a growing priority, companies are increasingly turning to innovative solutions to support disabled travellers. Hilton has partnered with Be My Eyes to launch an industry-first initiative in the US and Canada. Through this programme, blind and low-vision users can connect with sighted volunteers via live video calls for assistance with navigating Hilton properties, from locating amenities to reading room controls.
The German tourist board’s “Barrier Free” campaign, meanwhile, offers comprehensive information on accessible travel options, helping visitors plan trips with confidence. Campaigns like this recognise disabled travellers as a key market with significant spending power, encouraging destinations to take accessibility seriously as part of their broader tourism strategy.
AccessAble has long been a frontrunner in offering detailed and quality-assured accessibility information, and their recent launch of the Your Accessibility Guide portal marks a significant step forward. This platform aims to help businesses and venues provide comprehensive accessibility information. The guides are created based on assessments by trained surveyors, ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness – something that has often been lacking in the industry.
Emma Muldoon, the founder of leading travel and disability blog Simply Emma, points out that while these advancements are promising, more needs to be done. “It’s staggering that only about 16 hotels in the UK provide hoists, which creates considerable challenges for disabled travellers,” she says. This scarcity of essential equipment limits options and highlights the broader issue of inclusive travel for those with complex needs.
A post shared by Emma | Disabled Travel Blogger | Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 (@simplyemmablog)
While advancements are being made on the ground, the aviation sector has been slow to accommodate the needs of disabled travellers fully. From damaged mobility equipment to inadequate support during boarding, many disabled passengers face stress, discomfort and even safety concerns when flying.
Alex Stratikis, a travel writer and founder of Autism Adventures Abroad, points out that the challenges aren’t limited to physical accessibility. “Most of my issues stem from poor customer service and a general lack of awareness. I get easily flustered in high-stress environments like airports, and staff need to be more understanding.”
The launch of the Aviation Accessibility Task and Finish Group brings hope that these barriers may soon be addressed, with a focus on safer, more dignified air travel for disabled passengers.
Key figures in the new task force, including Baroness Grey-Thompson and Sophie Morgan, a disability advocate, will work closely with airlines, airports and disability organisations over the coming months to bring necessary reforms. Their objectives include ensuring that mobility aids are handled with care, providing timely assistance and making onboard facilities accessible. These efforts reflect a growing recognition within the aviation industry that accessibility should be integral, not optional.
Recent developments, including Delta’s plans to introduce a wheelchair restraint system that allows users to stay in their chairs during flights, mark a positive step. However, broader industry changes are still needed to address the many challenges that disabled passengers face when flying. If the task force succeeds in implementing effective and permanent solutions, it could transform air travel for disabled people in the UK.
Reflecting on my own travels, the key to truly accessible travel lies in authenticity and consistency. Simple things, like an accessible bathroom that is kept free of clutter, or well-trained staff who know how to address the needs of different disabled travellers, can make all the difference. Travelling should be about experiencing joy and freedom, not constant negotiation and self-advocacy.
Disabled travellers want the same respect and dignity as everyone else. That starts with understanding that accessibility isn’t a one-size-fits-all. It requires flexibility, empathy and a willingness to adapt.
As Causin puts it: “I’m hopeful that with continued awareness and advocacy, more travel companies will adopt accessibility as a core part of their business model, not just a niche offering.”
The loss of Revitalise has highlighted the need for a more inclusive approach to travel. Accessible tourism should not be seen as a niche but as a fundamental aspect of the industry. Countries like Germany, cities like Barcelona and Rotterdam, and companies like Limitless Travel, TUI, and Hilton are proving that accessibility can, and should, be a key priority. Platforms like AccessAble’s Your Accessibility Guide portal are setting standards for how businesses can support disabled travellers with reliable and detailed information.
There’s hope on the horizon. If more companies and destinations can follow these examples, 2025 could mark a significant turning point for accessible travel. Travel is about discovery, freedom and joy; it’s time that the industry ensures that these experiences are open to everyone, regardless of their needs.
Copy link
twitter
facebook
whatsapp
email