When it’s time for your vacation, you are likely very excited to get away. However, if you have an unexpected injury that causes you to be on crutches, your excitement level might not be as high as it once was. Being on crutches is not easy, but there are a few things you can do to help you enjoy your vacation even with your injury. Here are a few tips for traveling on crutches.
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Tip #1: Skip the Lines
Being on crutches is very taxing, and the longer you are up on one foot and balancing on the crutches, the harder it gets. Most airports and even sightseeing locations will have entry locations that allow you to skip the lines. You might feel guilty about skipping in front of other people in line, but if you keep in mind how physically draining it would be to stand in that line, you will quickly get over that feeling.
Tip #2: Plan Routes
Traveling on crutches will be tiring no matter what, but if you plan your route in advance, you should be able to find the most convenient and fastest way from one place to another. Keep in mind that most places have disabled access points that you will want to use to shorten your routes. Knowing those access points will save you time and energy.
Tip #3: Call Accommodations
Make sure you call your hotel and ensure that your room has easy access to the elevator or is on the ground floor. Explain your situation, and most hotels will be glad to accommodate your situation as best they can.
Tip #4: Pre-Boarding
If you are flying somewhere, request a pre-boarding ticket so you can get on the plane before everyone else and get yourself situated before others are there in the way. You will have to run your crutches through x-ray machines and store them in the overhead compartments or another location during the flight.
Tip #5: Portable Bags
If your trip is long enough to require a bag, see if you can fit everything you need into a backpack. You can wear the backpack and still keep your arms free for your crutches. Otherwise, make sure your bag is small and portable enough that someone along with you can drag it for you anywhere you go.
Tip #6: Consider Alternatives to crutches
If being on crutches will be too tiring for you during your travels, consider using modern alternatives to crutches to help you out. You can rent a wheelchair or even look into the mobility devices Crutches Guide has to offer. They can be rented or purchased. The Hands-Free Crutch, the Knee Walker, and the Seated Scooter are all wonderful options for various types of travel.
Tip #7: Practice
When you know you are going on a trip that will take some walking and maneuvering, try to keep in shape with your crutches. Use the crutches as much as possible, so you get used to being on them more often. Then, when you go on vacation, you will not be as sore from overuse.
Tip #8: Indulge
When you are on vacation, you will be getting a full-body workout on your crutches on a regular basis. This is a great chance to indulge in foods you would not normally eat. You will be working it off, and having the energy you need will take more calories. Enjoy the foods of the region, and treat yourself.
Traveling on crutches will not be easy, but if you plan ahead and use these tips, you should be able to make it enjoyable even with the bulk and hassle of crutches.
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