If you have a disability, camping in lightweight travel trailers is a dream you can take part in. Due to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), lightweight travel trailers are being built with models that are accessible and in accordance to specified rules. Most all lightweight travel trailers can be modified for those with disabilities. If this is you, ask the dealership for tailored ADA approved lightweight travel trailers, and begin your RVing life on the road.

Lightweight travel trailers and planning ahead

There will be accommodating campgrounds for those with disabilities, but you want to make sure you feel comfortable before leaving in lightweight travel trailers. Most RV campgrounds offer one or two handicap accessible spots to park lightweight travel trailers. Try looking online or in the phonebook for accessible recreational vehicle campgrounds. Ask friends, too, for trustworthy campgrounds that you could call and see if they are ADA friendly.

After you feel confident in your research, make sure that you call. Ask the following questions to the RV campground attendant before you haul your RV miles away:

1. Are the camping spots with concrete so that wheelchairs are easy to maneuver?

2. If the travel trailer camper is parked, does the RV campground have ramps available for accessibility?

3. You will want to inquire about what hookups are available. Are these hookups easy to access for those with disabilities?

4. Ask to make sure the bathroom facilities are accessible.

5. Are other aspects of the campground facility accessible and ADA approved?

6. Are there activities near the RV camp site that are ADA approved?

Think about taking a friend with you

It is always smart to take a traveling companion or buddy with you, especially if you have special needs to be met. Ask a friend or a family member to travel with you in your RV. There are also professional services available that can provide high quality people to assist you as needed. You may need assistance with medications or other camping needs.

Travelin? Talk Network and Handicapped Travel Club, Inc. are two recommended organizations that can help you with this. They are also good resources for contacting other RV travelers with disabilities for recommendations on campgrounds, etc. Look online or other resources to help you.

Enjoy traveling in your travel trailer or motor home. If you have any special needs, do not let that inhibit you living your dream life RVing on the road.

Julie Jacobs writes about lightweight travel trailers while traveling. Read more of her writing on RVs at www.pedatarvcenter.com.