Travelling with advanced IBM requires more planning than most people realize. You need to bring equipment that makes daily life possible — and that equipment doesn't fit in a carry-on.
The core challenge: at home, you may have a ceiling lift or full-size Hoyer. Those don't travel. The Molift Smart 150 (~$4,000, 45 lbs) is the lightest full-body portable lift, but loading it into a car requires a strong caregiver.
Essential travel equipment checklist:
• Portable patient lift (Molift Smart 150 or VOCIC Electric)
• Folding commode (Carex 3-in-1 or Drive Medical — $31-55)
• Travel bidet (Brondell GoSpa — $10)
• Transfer sling (Vive Full Body Mesh — $40)
• Portable urinal (pStyle for women — $13)
• Suction cup grab bars (temporary — $25)
• Handheld showerhead attachment ($25)
Airline tips:
• Contact the airline 48+ hours before travel
• Your wheelchair is gate-checked — get a claim tag and photograph it
• Portable ventilators and CPAP are allowed as carry-on medical devices
• TSA PreCheck lanes are available for mobility devices
Hotel tips:
• Don't trust "accessible" labels — call and ask specifically about roll-in showers and grab bars
• Request photos of the accessible bathroom before booking
• Bring your own equipment — hotels don't provide lifts or shower chairs
Download TMA's Emergency Resources Kit before any trip — it includes a wallet card, ER guide, and medical history form.
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Related Reading
- Early Stage Tips — Exercise, energy conservation, and specialist directories
- Bathroom & Toileting — Equipment, bidets, and transfer techniques
- Travel Tips — Airlines, hotels, and emergency preparedness
- General Tips — Insurance, disability benefits, and support groups