Planning a road trip in a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV)? Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer journey, having the right essentials can make all the difference — not just for comfort, but for safety and accessibility.
Here’s a complete packing guide tailored for WAV users and carers, so you can hit the road with confidence.
🎒 Essentials for the Journey
🧾 1. Personal Documents
- Driving licence (if you’re driving)
- Blue Badge
- Insurance details
- WAV hire agreement
- Emergency contact numbers
- Any travel bookings or hotel access info
Tip: Keep these in a zip pouch or folder in the glove compartment for easy access.
🧼 2. Accessibility & Health Items
- Medication (enough for the full trip + extras)
- A printed medication schedule (for carers/family)
- Accessible toilet card or Radar key (for UK accessible public toilets)
- Hand sanitiser, wipes, gloves
- A basic first aid kit
- Medical ID or alert bracelet (if applicable)
🔌 3. Wheelchair Essentials
- Spare cushion or seat pad
- Wheelchair charger (for power chairs)
- Puncture repair kit or tyre pump (for manual chairs)
- Lap blanket or waterproof poncho
- Portable ramp (if you’ll be visiting less accessible places)
Bonus tip: If you’re hiring from Mobility Vehicle Hire, ask us about boot hoists or wheelchair storage options.
📱 4. Tech & Navigation
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Sat nav or map app (Google Maps or Waze)
- Vehicle ramp/lift controls (if not built-in)
Download accessibility apps like:
- AccessAble – for accessible venues
- Blue Badge Parking – for finding disabled bays
- Wheelmap – crowdsourced access info
🍫 5. Comfort & Travel Extras
- Neck pillow and blanket
- Snacks and drinks
- Music playlist, podcasts, or audiobooks
- Sunglasses, hat, or sunshade
- Water bottle holder or travel mug
For longer trips:
- Cooler bag for medication or snacks
- Spare clothes and essential toiletries
- Easy-to-reach travel bag next to the wheelchair space
👀 6. Check Your WAV Before You Go
If you’re hiring a WAV:
- Double-check that ramp or lift mechanisms work smoothly
- Test wheelchair tie-downs and seatbelt systems
- Make sure there’s enough boot space for luggage and equipment
At Mobility Vehicle Hire, we handle all of this before delivery — but it never hurts to give everything a once-over before a long drive.
🛣️ Enjoy the Freedom of the Open Road
A WAV opens up the UK’s beautiful countryside, coastlines, and cities for everyone. With the right gear and a bit of planning, a road trip can be easy, enjoyable, and stress-free — whether you’re travelling solo or with friends and family.
Looking for a WAV to hire for your next trip?
We offer a wide range of vehicles, delivered to your door — ready to go, fully checked, and with all the features you need for a smooth journey.
👉 Book with Mobility Vehicle Hire today