The beach is my happy place. It has become a happy place for our family. The sun, the sand, the water, it’s healing. We have always done our best to make traveling accessible and enjoyable for Reagan. There is no way I could enjoy my happy place if Reagan could not enjoy it. Along the way, we have found some beach essentials for wheelchair users.
Beach accessibility has come a long way in the last decade. Trust me, a regular wheelchair does not stand a chance against the sand on a beach. No matter how hard you try to push it! This is experience talking. It’s important to be prepared for your trip when your child or a loved one has mobility issues.
For wheelchair users or people with mobility issues, beaches can be stressful. Luckily, there are many products that can help make the day at the beach perfect! Here are a few things we have used to make our day at the beach amazing.
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- Beach wheelchairs are a must
These chairs vary in size, versatility, customization, and, of course, price. Reagan has the Waterwheels Floating chair. It’s important that the chair has large pneumatic wheels and can safely hold the individual. Many beaches have free chairs or ones you can rent low cost. Check your state’s website (try the Department of Natural Resources) to find out what they offer. Michigan residents or visitors can check here. These chairs are basic, but get the job done. Michigan has offered more durable chairs that can go off-road. If you use the beach a lot, consider investing in a customizable beach wheelchair. Ask your resort if they provide beach wheelchairs or check the website for the beach.
- A wheelchair seat belt
If you’re using a loaner beach chair, it’s a good idea to bring your own belt to make sure the chair can be used safely. Many free beach chairs do not have seat belts or sufficient seat belts. If the individual has problems with coordination or you want to be extra safe, try a harness belt. If they don’t need full restraint, a simple lap belt will do.
- A chair umbrella
We use a Versa-Brella sports umbrella because it secures to Reagan’s chair easily and is adjustable. It also has an SPF coverage of 50+. We have had ours for many years and use it all summer long. It is great for her baseball games or walking around the neighborhood. Folds up easily and you can store it in your van.
- Don’t forget the medication
We use the Casematix Insulated Travel Bag. This keeps the inhaler and spacer free from dirt and sand while we are out and about. This stays in her wheelchair bag. It comes with a carabiner clip if needed. It has a hard shell, so need to worry about any harm to the medication. These cases can hold emergency medication, as well.
- Pop Up Beach tent
We have a Pop Up Tent we love to use. These are great for providing full body protection from the sun. They are easy to assemble and (once you have done it a few times), easy to put away. They fold up flat and fit in a suitcase. We have also used this Pop Up Beach Tent.
- A way to listen to music
We all love music, but it also calms Reagan. You can’t get the same quality sound from your phone as you can from this Portable Bluetooth Speaker. We have had it for years and it is great for travel. It can get wet and is compact.
- Patience
Don’t forget the regular necessities- sunscreen, towels, and sunglasses. Enjoy the sun and sand!
