An Airstream camper can open up whole new worlds for individuals with a disability. No longer will they have to struggle to find a disability-friendly hotel or form of transportation. Instead, they can enjoy the thrill of camping in a living space adapted to their unique needs.
If you or someone you know is living with a disability and you want to tailor your Airstream accordingly, read on! We’ve gathered up our favorite ways of making camping more accessible below. If you have any questions or want to look at models for sale, visit Airstream of Montana. We are based in Missoula, Montana and proudly serve those in Bozeman and Kalispell.
Addressing Mobility Issues
Many individuals living with a disability are limited in their mobility in some way. They might not be able to reach items that are higher up in a cabinet or bend down to reach something stored near the floor. They might not be able to stand or walk for extended periods of time. To address a limited range of motion, you can adjust the positioning of things inside your Airstream. A great place to start is lowering the cabinets and raising the countertops.
Other individuals are suffering from chronic pain or joint disorders, which can affect their ability to stand or sit for extended periods of time. Installing more comfortable seating and beds can make a big difference. Adjusting the bathroom by installing shower seats and grab bars can be helpful too.
For those who use mobility aids, such as crutches, walkers, or canes, you’ll want to invest in a larger Airstream RV that provides plenty of space to move around in. This can make it easier to navigate the interior without having to contort into weird angles or twist around to walk through doorways or hallways.
For those who need wheelchairs, you’ll want to install some type of ramp or lift. You can find certain campers that come built with ramps or you can install a ramp or lift into a model. It can also be beneficial to widen the space inside to provide room for the wheelchair to move around, such as taking out counters or furnishings that take up too much space.
Addressing Intellectual Disability
If one of your travelers has an intellectual disability, such as Down Syndrome, safety is the focus. You’ll want to ensure they stay safe inside your RV and don’t wander around the campsite. Add security to your Airstream so they can’t leave without your supervision and install locks on cabinets where medications and cleaning chemicals are stored.
Addressing Sensory Processing Sensitivities
Some travelers living with a disability experience sensory processing issues, which can include autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, depression, or anxiety. For these individuals, sounds can be louder, lights can be brighter, and other sensations are more extreme than what others experience.
To help reduce light, try installing blackout curtains. To help reduce sound, focus on plenty of insulation inside your Airstream’s walls to reduce the amount of outside noise that makes it inside. Keep temperatures regulated to make those sensitive to heat or cold more comfortable. These can be simple tweaks that make a big impact on their comfort and enjoyment of the camping experience!
We hope you found these camping tips helpful! If you have any questions or want any help modifying your Airstream, visit the experts at Airstream of Montana. If you are looking to buy a disability-friendly Airstream, check out our wide range of models for sale. We proudly serve those in Missoula, Bozeman, and Kalispell, Montana. Stop by and visit us today!
