Accessible Motorhome Travel for People with Disabilities

Owning a motorhome allows you to explore destinations across the country with the benefit of your own mobile living space. Those with disabilities are also able to experience the freedom and independence of mobile homes thanks to accessible motorhomes. These disabled motorhomes are specially designed with inclusive features and support to allow individuals to travel in comfort and safety. 

In this blog, we’ll take you through the main features of disabled motorhomes, how to prepare for your trip and what accessories you can use to help make your motorhome more comfortable.

Looking for the right accessible vehicle? Check out our finance for motorhomes here at Auto Finance.

Why are accessible motorhomes important?

Accessible motorhomes are crucial in allowing people with disabilities to enjoy travelling on the road and across the country. A disabled motorhome is specially designed to remove the features that limit those with disabilities and instead include features to aid mobility and safety.

The main reason that disabled-access motorhomes are so important is due to the independence and freedom they provide to those with disabilities. With an accessible vehicle like this, you can hit the road either alone or with friends and family without having to make additional arrangements like hiring accessible transport or booking special accommodation. 

With an accessible motorhome, you have a personalised space that offers both transport and accommodation with everything you need to support you on easy access. 

What are the features of a disabled motorhome?

Wheelchair Access 

A wheelchair-accessible motorhome has a few features that allow wheelchair users to use a motorhome more efficiently. 

A ramp or lift is one of the most important aspects of an accessible motorhome and allows wheelchair users to enter and exit the vehicle without having to be lifted or leave the chair. 

Larger doorways and doors

To ensure there is enough space for a wheelchair or other mobility aids to move in and out a disabled motorhome has widened exit and entry points. Any doorways inside that separate different rooms will also be widened.

Extra Interior Space

In the same way that the doorways are more spacious, so is the interior of an accessible motorhome. Any furniture or fixtures that may obstruct a wheelchair are removed and there is enough floor space for a wheelchair to turn, reverse and manoeuvre around inside with ease. 

Furniture and Counters

The furniture and counters themselves are all designed to be at a lower position so that they are level with a person in a seated position. This means things like table tops, sinks, beds and cooking spaces can be used without having to stand. 

Seating may also be folded down or swivel chairs so wheelchair users have the option to use the space in their chairs or move to a different seat. 

Bathroom furniture like shower cubicles will also be removed and instead, a walk-in or wheelchair-accessible shower will be installed. Handrails and shower seating will also be fitted to allow support when using the shower or toilet. 

An accessible motorhome can also be stylish and we’ve got some top creative interior ideas to make your vehicle unique. 

Driving options 

In the UK, the DVLA allows individuals with a range of disabilities to drive and obtain a driver’s license. Adjustments to the driving seat and controls can also be made to make driving accessible. 

Hand controls can be used in place of foot peddles for those in wheelchairs and other steering and gear modifications can be used for those with limited strength or limb mobility. 

If you’re a wheelchair user, you can also utilise systems that lock your wheelchair in place on the floor when driving. Modern technology and gadgets like cameras and motion sensors can also be used to aid driving. If you want to know more about these additions, we’ve got a blog on the best motorhome gadgets for you to check out. 

Additions for your disabled motorhome

A purpose-built accessible motorhome should have all the basics to make things easier for travel, but you can also purchase a number of helpful add-ons that can serve as more personal aids for different disabilities. 

Smart tech

A great way to minimise the need for movement around your motorhome is smart technology. Using Alexa or voice control systems allows you to control things like lighting and appliances without having to manually press switches.

You can also install apps on your smartphone that can pair with your lighting, thermostat and other electronics to adjust them, which is ideal for people with mobility issues. 

Exterior features

Many motorhomes have the potential for additional space or add-ons on the outside to allow for more space or storage capacity. You can purchase automatic canopies that extend upwards with a button or remote to give you extra headroom or let in some natural light on sunny days.

What to consider when choosing a disabled motorhome?

If a disabled motorhome is the right vehicle for you then there are a few things you need to consider to choose the best option for you.

Your personal needs

Are there any specific requirements for aid that you need? What sort of daily adaptations do you need? Establishing these things will help you know what you’re looking for when selecting a vehicle. You’ll want to make sure your motorhome has the basics like a place to cook, sleep and bathe as well as any additional accessible features. If you’re going to be the one driving the motorhome, ensure it is fit for disabled drivers before purchase.

Budget

As unfair as it may seem, accessible motorhomes are often more expensive than standard motorhomes as there is extra work required to fit and build accessible equipment. If budget is a concern for you, it’s also possible to purchase used motorhomes as well as new ones but bear in mind if you opt for a pre-owned vehicle it might not come with all the adaptations you need personally.  

If it’s your first time buying a motorhome, we’ve got a beginner’s guide to buying a motorhome that covers all the details in more depth. 

Manufacturer 

Not every brand or dealership offers specially designed accessible motorhomes so it’s important to ensure you look for specialists in order to find a vehicle that’s right for you. Winnebago is an example of a brand to look for when searching for your disabled motorhome. 

Some quick research can help you narrow down your desired make or model and you can then choose to buy second-hand, directly from the manufacturer or through a dealership.

Insurance and taxes

When it comes to motorhome insurance, this is entirely different to standard vehicle insurance and these rules also differ greatly if you have a disability. Alongside exemptions for vehicle tax, you can also benefit from reduced insurance from many companies if you have a Blue Badge. Getting to grips with motorhome insurance can be a bit tricky, so we’ve got a dedicated blog on the cost and how to get the best deal. 

Motorhome Finance

Many people won’t have the funds to pay for a motorhome outright, and that’s where a motorhome loan from Auto Finance comes in. With our finance options, you can make manageable monthly payments towards your vehicle, meaning you won’t have to break the bank to drive off in the accessible motorhome of your dreams.

If you use our calculator for vehicle finance, you can see how much you’d be expected to repay before you agree on a loan. 

Tips for disabled motorhome travel 

Stay connected

Ensure you’ve got a stable internet connection or easy access to a phone to contact friends and family should anything happen from a flat tyre to taking a wrong turn. Make sure you know your insurance and breakdown contacts too. For tips on how to stay connected, take a look at our blog. 

Plan in advance 

Make sure you plan the route to your destination in advance and utilise navigation apps or a SatNav to ensure you stay on course. You should also make a note of accessible stop-off areas should you need to take a break on your journey. 

You should also make a list of everything you need to take with you on your trip before you set off to ensure you don’t forget anything. Take a look at our ultimate campervan trip checklist if you need examples of the sort of things to pack. 

Join a motorhome community

There are some amazing benefits to joining a motorhome community. Not only can you access campsite and attraction discounts but it’s a great way to build a support system and make friends when camping. You can also join groups for disabled mobile home travellers and access extra support and accessible locations.  

Keep yourself safe 

When you’re out travelling you need to be on high alert to keep yourself, your vehicle and your possessions safe. Make sure you have a security system installed in your motorhome and invest in contents insurance should any damage or theft occur when you’re on your adventures. You’ll also want to find safe and affordable overnight parking in an area that isn’t isolated or dangerous. 

Make sure you’re keeping yourself safe too and have a first aid kit and emergency contact numbers on hand should you need them. 

Blue Badge

As mentioned above, having a blue badge can have some benefits but it’s also a legal requirement if you’re driving with a disability. With it, you can access exclusive disabled parking and free parking which can come in handy when you’re making stop-offs and want to be closer to any facilities. 

Motorhome finance for everyone at Auto Finance

By now you should know about the main features of a disabled motorhome and what to look for when making your vehicle choice. If you’re ready to get those keys in your hand and set off on the road, then it’s time to get in touch with us here at Auto Finance. We have a number of different motorhome finance options that allow you to split your vehicle payments into manageable chunks. Even if you’ve been refused finance before, we’re dedicated to doing everything in our power to help you get the perfect vehicle for you. 

What are you waiting for? Check out our exceptional reviews and see why we’re the best choice for motorhome finance.