Rather than finding new hotels each night, consider renting a handicap accessible motorhome, which allows you to travel more freely with all the equipment and supplies your child may need. Many theme parks, like Disneyland and Six Flags, offer RV parking, with overnight camping available on site or nearby. When reserving a camping site, choose an accessible site, which usually has a level surface and more concrete. In the National Park System, over 120 areas offer accessible camping.
Cruises offer a controlled environment to travel with your children, and almost every ship is completely accessible. A cruise allows you to visit several cities and countries in one trip without having to find new accommodations each night. Plus, cruise ships have medical staff on board to handle routine care and unexpected emergencies. Many lines have children's programs that disabled children may join. Disney Cruise Lines have youth counselors for disabled and special needs children.
If your child has special needs that make traveling in crowded areas difficult, consider booking during the offseason. Some smaller resorts and hotels may be nearly empty during the mid-week in an offseason, which may give your family the run of the grounds. Attractions will also be less crowded. Mountain getaways like Big Bear and Tahoe offer beautiful scenery and delicious dining options during the off season without the crowd.
While many travelers want more intimate accommodations, larger resorts offer ramps, accessible rooms, elevators and clear signage. All-inclusive resorts also provide everything on-site, which is convenient for families with disabled children. Some resorts also offer children programs. You'll find several choices of all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and throughout the Caribbean.
