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Any diehard RV fan will tell you that an RV is more than just a mode of transportation - 'it’s a lifestyle.' And, it’s a particularly attractive lifestyle for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.Hitting the road in your RV solves a myriad of access-related problems. With an RV adapted specifically to your needs, you'll never have to worry about hotels that have inaccessible bathrooms, narrow doorways or high beds. You'll always have an accessible place to sleep in your own RV, and you'll have plenty of storage space, so you can take along as much equipment as you need. (Even better, you don't have to worry about the airlines damaging that equipment.) And finally, travel won't be so exhausting because you won't have to endure long lines at the airport, cancelled flights and extended tarmac waits. If you get a little tired during the trip, just pull over and take a nap. In the end, you'll arrive at your destination refreshed and relaxed.

But, how do you find a rig that's right for you? The prevailing mantra among seasoned travelers is "try before you buy." Unfortunately, that's easier said than done when you are talking about accessible RVs. Most dealers don't keep them in their rental fleets because they don't have a high demand for them. Your best bet is to contact the Handicapped Travel Club (HTC) and place a "rental wanted" classified advertisement in their club newsletter. The HTC was formed to help people with disabilities get started. The members are very helpful, and most own their own adapted rigs.

When it comes time to buy, you can order a rig from the factory, adapt one yourself or buy a used one. As far as factory orders go, many manufacturers offer at least some access features. For example, Winnebago Industries offers ability-equipped vehicles that can be custom built for accessibility, while Sunline Coach Company designed their new Advancer 20 travel trailer to include many access features in the standard model. Both manufacturers offer a wide variety of standard and optional access features, including lever faucets, accessible controls, wide doorways, wheelchair-lifts, roll-in showers, raised toilets and bathroom grab bars.

Adapting your own rig works well for people who are mechanically inclined and need minimal adaptations. Tim Schweitzer was one of those people, and a few minor adaptations to his 26-foor motorhome made it more accessible for his daughter. "Although the motorhome I purchased was not an accessible unit, the spacious interior was perfect for installing tie-downs for my daughter's wheelchair," Tim says.

And if you'd like to search for a used rig, check out the classifieds in the HTC Newsletter or Disabled Dealer Magazine.

Of course, after you purchase your rig, you'll still have to find an accessible campground. As with all things accessible, it's best to get on the phone and ask specific questions before you travel. Don't just ask if the campground is accessible – ask if they have wide level spaces that will accommodate a wheelchair-lift. Measure your rig with the lift deployed, so you know how much room you need, and then write down those measurements and keep them in the glove compartment.

You should also ask about the surface around the camping spaces. Keep in mind that cement is good, and sand is bad. Although most hook-ups are located at an appropriate height, there may be obstacles such as railroad ties or steps around them. Make sure to ask if there are any obstructions. Ask about the accessibility of the office, bathrooms and showers as well. Once you arrive at the campground, don't be afraid to drive through before you register – it never hurts to take a look around before you put down your money.

Finally, if you want to get the skinny on the accessible facilities at RV parks and campgrounds across the US, check out the HTC online database. The campgrounds are evaluated by members and grouped by state. Each listing contains a short description, along with access details. This database is continually updated, and it's an excellent resource.

Candy Harrington is the editor of Emerging Horizons and the author of "Barrier Free Travel: A Nuts and Bolts Guide For Wheelers and Slow Walkers." Visit her blog for access news, resources and industry updates.

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