About the Author: Philip Stephens is a Sydney-based traveller, author, and manual wheelchair user who has explored more than 44 countries. After sustaining a spinal injury at 18 (C4-C5 injury), travel became one of the ways Phil learned how to move through the world on his own terms. His approach is grounded in planning, systems, and real-world experience, shaped by decades of international travel. In his blogs for beyond, Phil shares the practical routines and strategies that make complex journeys possible, from airports and equipment to funding and support on the road. He is also the author of My Lucky Break. To read more of his stories or purchase the book, visit www.iamphilipstephens.com. You can also follow him on Instagram - @philiponwheels.
Where it Started.
My very first flight was back in 1984, heading to the untouched island of Vanuatu. I remember being so nervous at the airport that I actually had a bathroom accident right before boarding. My carer and I had to rush to the toilets to clean up as best we could. It wasn’t the start I wanted, but I got through it, got on that plane, and it kicked off a lifetime of travel that’s taken me to over 44 countries.
Over the years, from those early economy flights to long-haul journeys to Africa, I have developed a specific personalised formula to make sure I get from my front door to the aircraft seat with as little stress as possible.
Organising my transport early
Before I even think about the check-in counter, I focus on how I’m getting to and from the terminal. To make the transition from the aircraft to the hotel (and the trip from my home to the airport) smoother, I always arrange for a specific transport pickup. I make sure to tell the transport agencies exactly what kind of vehicle I need, outlining the amount of luggage I carry and the size of my commode frame.
Again, before even thinking about the check-in counter, I focus on how I’m getting to the airport, from the airport to the hotel and back again. To reduce the stress on both my carer and myself, I arrange for a transport agency at my destination to pick me up from the airport and take me to my accommodation and vice versa. It is essential that I clearly inform them of the number of suitcases I have, including cabin bags, and that I will be travelling with two wheelchairs.
I have found that I always prefer travelling in the front passenger seat of the transport vehicle. It gives me much more space and comfort than trying to squeeze into the back, and it makes the start and end of my flight much more manageable. Having this set ahead of time gives me the peace of mind I need before I arrive at the airport.
Even at home, I prefer to travel in the front seat of the car. I feel more secure, safe, and it gives me a better view of what is going on. I have found it helpful to advise the driver/agency that I will be sitting in the front seat.
My check-in and boarding routine
I believe that the biggest mistake I can make is rushing. I always leave home well ahead of time because I have found that checking in takes me much longer than most people. I have quite a bit of gear, and my commode frame is always considered oversized, which adds a layer of complexity at the counter. I ensure I have plenty of allowance for traffic or any hiccups on the way to the terminal, so I’m not panicking.
Boarding first
Both the airlines and I prefer that I’m seated before any other passengers board the plane. It gives me time to make sure I’m settled comfortably and that all my carry-on bags are secured in the lockers without disturbing other people or having a crowd watching me get transferred.
Most of the images are courtesy of Little Frames. We’re proud to support and showcase their work in capturing authentic moments.
Staying in my chair
At the check-in desk, I always request to remain in my TiLite manual wheelchair right up until I reach the aircraft door. I’ve found it’s important to explain that my carer will be the one to pick me up and move me to my seat. I don't use the airport-provided wheelchairs or the onboard aircraft aisle chair. This is because my balance isn't great. I’m always worried I might fall over the side or the front in a chair that isn't mine. My TiLite is tailored to my body, and that’s where I feel most secure.
Protecting the equipment
When I reach the aircraft door, I ask the ground crew if the people taking my chair down to the hold can wait until my carer has finished getting me sorted in the aircraft seat. This allows my carer to go back out of the plane and fold the chair properly. I found this is the best way to ensure it doesn’t get damaged by someone who isn't familiar with how it works.
The photo trick
For my own peace of mind, I always take a photo of the luggage tag on my wheelchair. If the staff can’t find it when we land or are unsure which is my wheelchair which I need at the door, I can show them exactly which piece of luggage they are looking for. It’s a simple step that has saved me a lot of unnecessary anxiety over the years.
Managing the flight
Whether I'm flying economy or business, I have a few specific methods I use to stay healthy and comfortable during the journey.
The cushion pressure
If I’m in a seat that doesn’t recline, I sit on my ROHO cushion to provide pressure relief for my seated area. One thing I’ve discovered is that I have to watch the air pressure inside the cushion. When the plane climbs after take-off, the pressure in the cushion increases. Regardless, I let the air out as we climb and then re-inflate it as we descend to keep the pressure the same as it was on the ground. The pump I use for the cushion comes with the pressure gauge attached.
The "empty seat" strategy
Back when I flew economy for 13 years before I could afford business class, I was always lucky enough to get an exit seat for the extra legroom—I'm 1.87cm tall, so I really need the space. I’d also ask for a window seat so I could lean against the side wall. I found that airlines would often leave the middle seat empty between me (in the window) and my carer (on the aisle). This was handy because it let me roll over onto my side to get the weight off my bum during long flights.
Upgrading for comfort
These days, I’m grateful I can afford business class. The primary reason for me isn't the luxury, but the reclining seat. Being able to lie down for extended periods is how I manage the pressure on my skin and stay comfortable on those 12-hour hauls.
Bathroom logistics and unexpected moments
My biggest concern while flying is having a bowel accident. To manage this, I always make sure I have a successful bathroom morning experience before I even head to the airport. If I’m feeling particularly worried, I might take an anti-diarrhoea pill as a precaution.
When it comes to emptying my leg bag, I’ve found a method that works without me needing to navigate the tiny aircraft bathroom. I generally ask the cabin crew for an empty wine or water bottle. My carer can then transfer my bag contents into that at my seat and take the bottle to the bathroom to empty it. We generally keep the bottle with us for the next empty and then at the end of the flight, we put it in the garbage in the galley.
I have had my fair share of tough moments. There was only one time I had a messy accident just as my carer was putting me into the aircraft seat. I felt horribly embarrassed, but the cabin crew were amazing. They rigged up a blanket from the overhead lockers so nobody could see what was happening while my carer cleaned me up with the gloves and toilet paper I always carry in my bag. They never mentioned it again and made me feel completely supported. It was the flight home after a fantastic holiday, and I made a point not to let it destroy my memories. I just remind myself that we are all human, and I’ve found that people are usually very empathetic.
Most of the images are courtesy of Little Frames. We’re proud to support and showcase their work in capturing authentic moments
Arrival and managing the wait
One of the most frustrating parts for me is waiting in my seat for all other passengers to leave and then waiting even longer for my chair to meet me at the door. Over the years, I have had to learn to manage my own expectations regarding that wait time to keep my stress levels down.
If my chair accidentally goes to the luggage carousel, which does happen occasionally, I explain to the officials that I need my specific chair because it is tailored to my needs. Depending on the destination, they’ll either bring it back to the gate or provide a temporary wheelchair for me to get to the carousel.
The Reward
The way I see it, a 12-hour flight requires all the same preparation with luggage, communication, and planning as a 3-hour flight. The main difference is just being more aware of mitigating issues before they happen. For me, the reward of seeing the world far outweighs the effort of planning.
Check out Philip's video on his travels!
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Disclaimer
This article reflects the personal experiences and opinions of the author. Travel experiences, accessibility, and outcomes can vary widely depending on individual needs, equipment, destinations, and service providers. Information shared is intended as general guidance only and should not be considered professional, medical, or legal advice. Always check current accessibility information and make decisions based on what works best for you.