Winnebago Industries
If your RV is equipped with special features, speak with your RV insurance provider to make sure you have the right level of specific coverage. Seen here is the Winnebago Roam.
Varying degrees of mobility issues are common among RVers. For those like Samantha who is an avid camper, learning to adapt to accessibility limitations can be a challenging and frustrating experience.
Samantha lives with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from a ‘crush’ injury. She uses a mobility scooter and crutches while finding relief in nature, surrounded by trees and water. Once a runner who lived a very active lifestyle, she’s learning how to return to her love of camping and the outdoors with her disability. Here are some things Samantha has learned about accessible camping and RVing.
What to Consider When Booking an Accessible Campsite
Even if your RV is retrofitted for special needs, chances are likely you’ll need to use the public campground facilities at one point or another. So it’s important to make sure they are easy to get to from your site and handicap accessible.
Other campground features to consider when booking a site include:
- Hard-packed day-use trails
- Wheelchair-accessible campsites, picnic tables and parking spaces
- Wireless alert systems
- A barrier-free park office, store, comfort station and vault toilets.
- Beach access mats
Research, Research, Research
Finding a campsite that fits your needs may require some online effort. The features that make campsites accessible may vary from campground to campground. Be sure to call their reservation line directly to determine what they offer and ensure its amenities suit your needs.
Winnebago Industries
The Winnebago Inspire - even when your RV is retrofitted for your special needs, look for campgrounds that are disability-friendly.
Book Early
Even though many RV parks ensure they have accessible sites available, they are still limited. If you require one, plan and book early for every trip. Some parks even offer accessible activities or equipment like buoyant wheelchairs or bikes - but they may need to be reserved early.
Travel with a Group
In general, camping and travelling with an RV is easier and safer when you have help. When you travel in a group, everyone can provide assistance based on strengths and abilities.
If something goes awry, each person can help resolve the issue. In the beginning, Samantha found it difficult to ask for assistance. The RV community is very friendly and if you are travelling solo with a disability and need some help or see someone that requires some assistance, never be afraid to ask.
Insurance Coverage
Is your RV equipped with accessibility features? Before you start your travels, speak with your RV insurance provider to make sure you have the right level of coverage for yourself and your equipment.
Wayfarer Insurance provides insurance designed specifically to address the unique needs that come with owning a trailer and motorhome. Our licensed brokers are available to provide peace of mind wherever the road takes you. For more information visit www.wayfarerinsurancegroup.com