Traveling with Mobility Devices

July 24, 2024

Think Ahead

Traveling can be an exciting adventure, but for those who rely on mobility aids, it requires a bit more planning. The good news is that with the right preparation, your journey can be smooth and enjoyable. Monroe Medical Supplies, in business since 1985, offers a variety of solutions to make traveling easier. Here’s everything you need to know about traveling with mobility devices.

Planning Ahead for Your Trip

Research Your Destination

Start by researching your destination to ensure it’s accessible and accommodating. Look for information on accessible transportation, accommodations, and attractions. Many websites and travel guides provide useful insights into the accessibility features of various locations, helping you plan a worry-free trip.

Check Accessibility of Transportation

Whether you’re flying, taking a train, or driving, it’s essential to check the accessibility of your chosen mode of transportation. For example, airlines have specific policies and services for passengers with mobility devices. Contact the airline ahead of time to discuss your needs, such as wheelchair assistance, boarding procedures, and storage for your device.

An empty road in the desert with mountains in the background

Preparing Your Mobility Device

Maintenance Check

Before you embark on your journey, make sure your mobility device is in top condition. Perform a thorough maintenance check, including battery life, tire pressure, and any necessary adjustments. This helps prevent any unexpected issues while you’re traveling.

Rental Options

If bringing your mobility device isn’t feasible or if you need a different type for your destination, consider renting one. Monroe Medical Supplies offers a convenient rental program, allowing you to rent the perfect mobility device for your trip. Plus, if you decide it’s the right fit, you can apply one month’s rent towards the purchase of the device.

A condor airplane sits in the middle of a row of other planes

Packing Tips for Mobility Devices

Essential Accessories

Pack essential accessories and spare parts for your mobility device, such as an extra battery, charger, and any necessary tools for adjustments. Having these items on hand can save you time and stress if you encounter any issues during your travels.

Protective Gear

Use protective gear to safeguard your mobility device during transit. This includes padded bags, covers, and straps to secure the device. Proper protection ensures your mobility aid arrives at your destination in good condition.

Navigating Airports and Train Stations

Arrive Early

Arriving early at the airport or train station gives you plenty of time to navigate through security and boarding procedures. Inform the staff about your mobility device and any assistance you may need. Most transportation hubs offer services to help passengers with disabilities, but arriving early ensures a smooth experience.

Use Airport Assistance Services

Many airports offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance, priority boarding, and help with luggage. Contact your airline or the airport directly to arrange these services in advance.

A train is pulling into a train station at night.

Accessible Accommodations

Booking the Right Room

When booking accommodations, ensure the hotel or rental property is accessible. Look for features such as ramps, wide doorways, roll-in showers, and accessible bathrooms. Contact the property directly to confirm these features and ensure they meet your needs.

Enjoying Your Destination

Once you’ve arrived at your destination, take advantage of accessible transportation options, such as accessible taxis and public transit. Plan your activities with accessibility in mind, and enjoy exploring new places with the confidence that your mobility needs are met.

Traveling with a mobility device doesn’t have to be stressful. By planning ahead, performing a maintenance check, and utilizing rental options from Monroe Medical Supplies, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Since 1985, Monroe Medical Supplies has been dedicated to providing quality mobility aids, with the flexibility to rent and the option to apply one month's rent towards purchase. Contact us today to learn more about our rental program and how we can help make your next travel adventure accessible and hassle-free.

A person is pointing at a map on a table

An aerial view of a winding road surrounded by trees.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Mail

The Hidden Benefits of Renting Medical Equipment Before You Buy

May 30, 2025

Selecting the right medical equipment is a decision that directly affects comfort, safety, and independence. Whether managing a chronic condition , recovering from surgery, or caring for a loved one with mobility needs, it is important to make informed choices. While purchasing a product outright may seem like the fastest solution, there is real value in starting with a rental—especially when that rental can be applied toward a future purchase. At Monroe Medical Supplies, our rental program is designed to give customers the flexibility to test equipment in their real environment before making a full investment. One month’s rent can be credited toward the purchase price of the rented item. This option offers several important advantages for individuals and caregivers alike.

Product Spotlight: Walkers at Monroe Medical Supplies – Mobility, Safety, and Support for Every Step

May 23, 2025

Walk with Confidence For individuals navigating mobility challenges, the right walker can provide freedom, independence, and safety. Whether recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, or simply aging gracefully, a high-quality walker can make a life-changing difference. At Monroe Medical Supplies, we offer a range of premium walkers that fit diverse needs and body types—each available for purchase or convenient rental. Our rental program allows you to apply the first month’s rent toward a future purchase, offering flexibility without commitment. Here are five standout models that we recommend for those seeking reliability, comfort, and thoughtful design: 1. STAR 8 DX Heavy Duty Rollator Designed for durability and adaptability, the STAR 8 DX Heavy Duty Rollator supports up to 450 pounds and adjusts easily with push-button Quick-Fit technology. This model features a deluxe seat with a removable pad, a food tray option, and under-seat storage for daily essentials. It folds easily for transport or storage, and the 8” all-terrain wheels make it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. NOVA’s patented locking hand brakes ensure safety, and curb pedals next to the rear wheels make navigation seamless. Ideal for users between 5’4” and 6’4”, the STAR 8 DX is built for comfort and confidence on the move.

Understanding the Benefits of Lift Chairs for Comfort and Independence”

May 16, 2025

Find the Perfect Lift Chair for Your Needs As mobility and comfort needs evolve —whether due to aging, injury, or recovery—one piece of equipment consistently rises to the occasion: the lift chair. Often overlooked in conversations about home medical supplies, lift chairs offer a powerful combination of support, safety, and independence. At Monroe Medical Supplies, we believe these chairs are more than just furniture—they are daily tools for maintaining dignity and reducing physical strain. Let’s explore the features and benefits of lift chairs , the people who gain the most from them, and how Monroe Medical Supplies can help you rent or purchase the right one.

Empowering Mobility: How Power Wheelchairs Improve Quality of Life for People Living with Chronic Illness or Injury

May 9, 2025

The Impact of Power Wheelchairs Living with a chronic illness or a long-term injury can significantly impact one’s mobility, independence, and overall quality of life. For many individuals facing these challenges, transitioning from a manual wheelchair to a power wheelchair can be life-changing. Power wheelchairs offer more than just mobility—they provide greater autonomy, social engagement, and the freedom to move through life on one’s own terms.

Why We Love the VivaLift! Lift Chair Series

May 1, 2025

Combin ing Comfort, Style, and Technology At Monroe Medical Supplies, we take great pride in offering products that truly enhance the lives of our customers. When it comes to comfort, support, and style, few options compare to the VivaLift! Lift Chair Series. These chairs are more than just a mobility aid—they represent the perfect combination of relaxation, convenience, and innovative technology, making them one of the best investments you can make for your well-being.

Rent Before You Buy: A Smart Guide to Home Medical Equipment Rentals

April 25, 2025

A Practical Solution When recovering from surgery, managing a temporary illness, or caring for a loved one with changing mobility needs, investing in durable medical equipment can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, Monroe Medical Supplies offers a practical, flexible solution: home medical equipment rentals. Renting instead of buying can offer both financial relief and peace of mind—especially when health needs may be short-term or uncertain. In this guide, we’ll walk you through when renting makes sense, what types of equipment are available, and how Monroe Medical Supplies can help you get the right tools quickly and conveniently.

The Ultimate Guide to Ramps: Access, Safety, and Convenience at Home and Beyond

April 17, 2025

Why the Right Ramp Makes All the Difference For individuals with limited mobility, ramps are more than a convenience—they are a necessity. Whether it’s navigating steps at home, accessing a vehicle, or transitioning through raised thresholds, ramps provide safety, independence, and peace of mind. At Monroe Medical Supplies, we offer a variety of mobility ramp solutions tailored to meet everyday needs with durability and ease of use in mind. This guide explores the benefits of ramps, how they work, and which options may be best for you or your loved ones. Why Ramps Matter Ramps play a crucial role in improving quality of life for individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, or other mobility devices. Beyond making entrances and exits safer, ramps can prevent falls and injuries, foster independence, and reduce caregiver strain. Ramps also allow people recovering from surgery, managing chronic conditions, or aging in place to remain at home more comfortably and securely. Monroe Medical Supplies is proud to offer a range of ramp options designed for a variety of settings and mobility needs. Each product is engineered for reliability, portability, and ease of installation.

Caregiver’s Guide to Supporting a Loved One with Chronic Illness at Home

April 10, 2025

Supportive Home Care Caring for a loved one with a chronic illness is a role that demands compassion, patience, and an ever-growing set of practical skills. Whether you are supporting someone recovering from surgery or assisting with the daily needs of an aging parent or chronically ill spouse, being a caregiver often means juggling medical, emotional, and logistical responsibilities—all within the comfort and constraints of home. This guide offers tips, tools, and support strategies to help caregivers manage their responsibilities effectively while also protecting their own well-being. Understanding the Illness Every chronic illness is unique, and understanding its progression and treatment is the foundation of good care. Whether your loved one is managing COPD, diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, or another long-term condition, take time to research symptoms, triggers, and treatment plans. Stay in close contact with their medical team to monitor changes in health and medication needs. Keep a list of medications, allergies, and provider contacts easily accessible for emergencies.

Should You Consider a Stairlift? Here’s What You Need to Know

April 3, 2025

Simple Support for Daily Living As mobility challenges become a daily reality for many individuals—whether due to aging, illness, or injury—navigating the stairs at home can become not only difficult, but dangerous. That’s where stairlifts come in. A stairlift is more than a convenience—it can be a lifeline for those who want to stay safely in their homes and maintain their independence.

Switching from a Manual Wheelchair to a Power Chair: What to Consider Before You Make the Change

March 27, 2025

Consider Your Options Carefully For many individuals who rely on manual wheelchairs, the idea of transitioning to a power chair can be both exciting and overwhelming. While manual chairs offer independence and mobility, they also require a significant amount of upper body strength, stamina, and coordination. Over time—or as medical conditions evolve—a manual wheelchair may no longer be the most suitable or sustainable option. At Monroe Medical Supplies, we often hear from customers who are exploring the possibility of moving to a power wheelchair but aren’t sure whether it’s the right decision. If you’re in a similar position, here are some important factors to consider as you weigh your options.