Holidays are the perfect excuse to escape, whether it’s with family, friends, or just some solo downtime. Sounds easy, right? For most, it is. But if you have a disability, the "easy" part can come with a few extra steps (or phone calls!).

Booking a hotel that works for your needs, sorting accessible transport, finding restaurants you can actually get into, it’s like planning a military operation. But don’t stress, it is possible. You just need to think outside the square... and maybe call in reinforcements (hello, travel agents!).

Some of us love a cruise, unpack once, float from port to port, with food, shows, drinks, and maybe a new country every second day. Bliss! Others chase more adventure, multi-stop flights, taxis, accessible car hire, and even the odd helicopter tour (because why not?).

Personally, I do my homework. I call each hotel to ask the real questions: Can my hoist fit under the bed? What’s the transfer height? Got a roll-in shower? Twin beds?

I like staying central so I don’t have to rely on taxis or car hire just to get a coffee. That said, accessible car hire is a thing! It’s not everywhere, but I’ve had great luck in Western Australia (shout-out - they were awesome!) and Adelaide.

So, with summer around the corner, dust off that bucket list, grab your atlas, and get planning. There’s a world out there, and it’s more accessible than you think!

About the author

Lindsay, who was born and grew up in Brisbane, Australia, obtained a spinal cord injury several years ago which sees him getting around on four wheels instead of two legs. His injury hasn’t stopped him from making the most out of what he refers to as "my beautiful life". Lindsay's journey began on the last day of grade 12 at the age of 17 when he went for a celebratory swim at Southbank, Brisbane and broke his neck at vertebrae C5. Over the last 28 years, Lindsay has done public speaking at universities, conferences, fundraisers, and within health care settings. He also works part-time, travel, attend the gym and volunteers as a peer support mentor for the newly injured and their families. Lindsay is an advocate for disability awareness and his goal is to help people and their families who are in similar situations.