Accessible Accommodation:
choosing the right place to stay

Before you begin looking at properties, think through what you personally need to move, sleep, shower, communicate and feel comfortable.

Mobility considerations

• Step-free entrances
• Wide doorways
• Space to turn around
• Bed of accessible height
• Amenities are located within accessible reach
• Roll in shower or accessible tub
• Accessible elevators
• Pathways without steep slopes or uneven surfaces

Visual considerations

• Good lighting with minimal glare
• High contrast signage
• Simple and predictable room layout
• Tactile elevator buttons and consistent floor markings

Hearing considerations

• Hearing loop compatibility
• Assistive listening systems
• Visual or vibrating doorbells and alarm clocks
• Captioned TV
• Alternative communication options at reception

Neurodivergent considerations

• Quiet rooms away from busy areas
• Dimmable lighting
• Simple and predictable room layout
• Spaces with calming environment
• Neutral decorations
• Staff training

Allergy considerations

• Hypoallergenic bedding
• Fragrance-free cleaning options
• Air purification
• Stable temperature control

Knowing your exact needs helps you ask targeted questions and compare properties accurately.

Do not rely on the hotel website alone. Photos may be outdated and accessibility labels may not reflect the real configuration of the room. Contact the property directly and ask practical questions.

Room layout and features

• What is the exact layout of the accessible room?
• How much space is available around the bed and in the bathroom?
• What is the bed height?
• Are light switches, outlets and shelving reachable?
• Are visual alert systems or hearing support devices available?
• Can lighting be dimmed to support sensory needs?

Bathroom accessibility

• Is there a roll-in shower or a transfer bathtub?
• Are grab bars installed and where are they located?
• Is there a threshold to access the bathroom? If yes, what is the height?
• Is there a built-in or portable shower seat?
• How wide is the bathroom door?
• Is the bathroom large enough for a wheelchair to turn properly?
• Are floors non-slip?

Property access

• Is the entrance step-free and automatic?
• What are the dimensions of the elevators?
• Is the path to the dining and common areas step-free?
• Are there quiet or low sensory areas when needed?

Allergy considerations

• Are hypoallergenic or fragrance-free rooms available?
• Can the room be cleaned without scented products?
• Is a refrigerator available for medication?
• Does the property offer smoke free floors or buildings?

Documentation to request

• Photos of the exact room and bathroom.
• Doorway measurements and bathroom dimensions.
• Confirmation in writing of the features you require.
• A floor plan if available.

This information helps you make an informed decision and reduces the chance of unexpected barriers.

Hotels often use different terms to describe accessible rooms:

• ADA rooms: Meet minimum legal accessibility requirements in the USA.
• Accessible rooms: May include some features but not full compliance.
• Adapted rooms: Modified with additional features.

Because the terms are used inconsistently, always confirm the actual features instead of relying on labels.

Where your room is located can directly affect comfort and safety.

Travelers often benefit from:

• Rooms close to elevators to reduce long walking distances.
• Ground-floor rooms when elevators are unreliable.
• Quiet rooms away from restaurants, event spaces or service areas.
• Rooms near the lobby if regular staff support is needed.
• Rooms with extra space for medical equipment or caregiver support.

These details can significantly improve your experience, especially for mobility, visual, or neurodivergent needs.

When you arrive, check your room right away to make sure it matches what was confirmed.

If something is missing:

• Notify the front desk immediately.
• Request a different room if available.
• Ask to speak with a manager if the issue is not resolved.
• Show your written confirmation and photos you were provided.
• Document the issue with your own photos.

If the hotel cannot meet guaranteed accessibility features, ask about relocation support or refunds. Travelers who use accessible travel specialists often benefit from having an advocate who can help resolve issues quickly.