How to Travel With Crutches

Getting hurt right before a big trip can put a major damper on your travel plans. If you're headed somewhere with lots of stairs, uneven surfaces or other unpredictable situations, getting around on crutches could even be dangerous. Still, if you're determined to stick it out and go anyway, a bit of preparation ahead of time will make your life a lot easier. Keep in mind that your trip might cost a bit more now, since you're likely to need more help getting around.

Instructions

1

Obtain your doctor's o.k. to travel with crutches. Your doctor may have concerns about the accommodations and modes of transport you will be taking, so be sure to discuss those potential issues with them. If you are going to be traveling in inclement weather and you are wearing a cast, find out if there are any materials you can add to the outside of the cast to protect it from the elements.

2

Arrange for a taxi or private car to drop you off at the airport, train, or bus station, and make arrangements for your destination pickup as well. If you are unable to drive yourself, consider hiring a car service at your destination, so you have no problem getting around. Or, just keep the numbers of several cab companies with you for when you arrive. Another option, if available, is to rent a scooter when you arrive. This will get you around town, and requires no use of the legs.

3

Make arrangements for wheelchair service with your airline or train. Airlines offer free wheelchair shuttle from the check-in counter to the gate, and can often provide it when you pull up to curb. You will need to alert a curbside airport employee of your presence. Since using crutches to get down an airplane aisle can be difficult, domestic airlines typically provide an "aisle chair" to help you get to your seat. These arrangements are typically made when you make your reservation, but if that's not possible, contact your airline's customer service line and ask about travel assistance. Train stations and bus stations often have wheelchair service as well, so be sure to contact your travel carrier about the details.

4

Visit the security checkpoint. If you are wearing a cast, know that the Transportation Security Administration is going to want to scan it. The TSA uses a special device to do this, and the process could mean more time at the security checkpoint. Give yourself extra time to deal with this. Also keep in mind that your crutches will need to be scanned as well.