Accessible Hotel Checklist for Wheelchair Travellers

Confirm the details before you book

An “accessible room” can mean different things at different hotels. Use this checklist to ask for the information that matters to you, then keep the answers with your booking confirmation. You can also start with the Wheelchair Travel Guide.

Ask about the route into the hotel

• Is there a step-free route from the drop-off point or car park to reception?
• Are the entrance doors wide enough for your wheelchair or mobility scooter?
• Is there a lift, and are its door width, internal dimensions and weight limit suitable?
• Can you reach the room, dining areas and accessible facilities without steps?
• Are there steep slopes, heavy doors, narrow turns or loose floor coverings on the route?

Ask for room measurements

If possible, ask for measurements or recent photographs rather than relying on a room label.

• Clear doorway width and space to turn beside the bed
• Bed height and clearance underneath the bed
• Space beside the toilet and inside the bathroom
• Shower entry width, seat type, grab rail position and floor layout
• Height of switches, sockets, taps, wardrobe rails and room controls
• Whether furniture can be moved to create the space you need

Ask about the bathroom

Find out whether the shower is level-entry, whether a shower chair is available, and whether the toilet and sink can be approached from the side you use. Ask if grab rails are fixed or removable and whether staff can provide a suitable alternative if the room does not meet your needs.

Ask about equipment and support

• Can the hotel store or charge a mobility scooter safely?
• Is there a suitable place to store a manual wheelchair?
• Can the hotel provide a bed rail, shower chair or other equipment, and what are its dimensions?
• Are staff able to help with arrangements without providing physical transfers?
• Who should you contact if the room or equipment is not as described?

Get confirmation in writing

Save the name of the person who confirmed the details, the date, measurements and any photographs. Reconfirm shortly before arrival, especially if the hotel has more than one accessible room type.

For related planning, read what to ask a hotel before booking, and browse the Accessible Travel collection for travel aids.