Travel for Big and Tall People
Travel for larger people requires much more planning that that of a “normal” size person. There has been a lot in the news lately about bigger people purchasing additional seats and the heated exchanges on both sides of that issue. Add to that new security procedures for travel and it may seem easier to just stay home. But the pitfalls of travel for big and tall can be navigated as long as research, planning and due diligence is done in advance.
Bus Travel for the Big and Tall
This is by far the least expensive and the most frustrating; especially if it is a full bus. The best advice for anyone of size traveling on a bus is to try and sit in the first row behind and across from the driver. It should be noted that these are reserved as seating for the disabled, so you may be asked to move. If you are morbidly obese or disabled in some other way, call the bus carrier at least 48 hours before your trip and they can make arrangements to assist you. We recommend that this method be used for short trips. Both overweight and tall persons will realize that cross country trips are going to be quite uncomfortable due to cramped seating and the hassle of changing buses several times.
Train Travel for the Big and Tall
This method can be as long as or even longer than bus travel. However, it has the distinct advantage of room cars. In the United States, you will more than likely be limited to Amtrak, which is the national train line. As with buses, if you are morbidly obese or disabled in some other way, you will need to let them know. Actually, you will need to book your travel at least 2 weeks in advance and do so either in person or on the phone as they do not have it set up to request special accommodations online. The good news is that with proof of disability (a doctor’s letter or disability group membership card, such as the American Association of Persons with Disabilities), Amtrak provides a discount for travel.
Air Travel for Larger People
One of the most frustrating methods of travel is that of air travel. In the post 9-11 world, security adds an enormous amount of frustration with travel plans. But for persons of size, it becomes even more complicated. Be prepared for full body scanners of “enhanced pat downs”. That can cause problems for both tall and overweight people. Some airlines require the purchase of 2 seats if you will not fit comfortably in one…and it can be an arbitrary decision. And some airlines will not let you purchase both seats next to each other in advance. The best defense is to check with each airline to see what they require. Utilizing the online help is the best bet so you can print what you were told in case there are any problems at the counter. Also, if you choose to fly an airline that does not charge for 2 seats, the wisest choice would be to travel business class or first class to allow for the maximum amount of comfort.
Size Friendly Car Rental and Hotel Accommodations
Travel will ultimately require some sort of local transportation. Most rental car establishments offer luxury size or vans/SUVs at relatively reasonable prices. Some places will rent Hummers for less than $50 a day. Just remember to include extra money in your budget for fuel.
If you will require hotel stays, check with the hotel in advance for amenities you may need. For instance, ground floor rooms, or easy access via elevators, extra long beds, couches in room, handicap accessible showers/restrooms and you might want to check to see if the commodes in the room are supported on the floor or if they are attached to the wall. The wall attached ones tend to have a weight limit of about 350 pounds, so to avoid a potential mess and even more important, injury, it is wise to check. Also, use of a concierge can prove invaluable if the hotel provides one, so investigating that fact is beneficial.