The ups and downs of wheelchair caravanning

When caravanners and campers refer to accessibility, it's often around how far off the beaten track their 4x4 tow vehicle and off-road camper can take them.

However, for some outdoor adventurers accessibility has a completely different meaning, particularly when they're restricted to getting around in a wheelchair.

You'd think RV travel for wheelchair users would be next to impossible, but that's not the case. For starters, there's a variety of wheelchair-accessible caravans and campers (either custom built or modified) available, allowing wheelchair users to travel around the country in both comfort and safety.

One of the biggest drivers of wheelchair accessible 'vans in this country has been Accessavan, run by Michael Wake who has been a paraplegic since 1991.

While Accessavan no longer works with local manufacturers in the design and production of wheelchair friendly 'vans, the website is still up and running and is a good starting point for those considering purchasing their first wheelchair-accessible camper.

There's also the second-hand market, with this used Accessavan (built by Designer Vans back in 2009) currently for sale in NSW on caravancampingsales.

Although 15 years old it's loaded up with wheelchair friendly features like an extra-wide body with lots of floorspace and a roll-in shower and toilet, and an extra wide door with ramp access and airbag suspension.

There's also one-touch power operation for tricky items like the jockey wheel, stabilizer legs, hatch, awning, and antenna.

More recently we've seen Melbourne's Network RV custom build a 23ft  'Wheeling and Able' full height van, while Westernport Caravans and NSW's Mountain Trail RV have built wheelchair-accessible camper trailers.

Sydney's Avida RV and Queensland's Paradise have also offered custom built wheelchair accessible motorhome models in the past, while Melbourne's Regal Caravans currently offers seven models in its Accessible Vans range on its website.

Even importers are helping fill the gap, with West Australia-based Mobi Nomad recently unveiling its latest South African-built Liberty off-road hybrid which is described as "Mobi Nomad’s most accessible caravan yet — built from the ground up to support wheelchair users and travellers with disabilities".

Queenslander Katie Hammond has been a paraplegic since her teen years but that hasn't stopped her or her family, including husband Jimmy who's also in a wheelchair, from enjoying many memorable Outback family camping trips.

Currently working as a Peer Support Team Member at Spinal Life Australia, Katie says her love of camping was sparked not long after her spinal injury, when at 18 years old she bought a 40-acre property and began camping by the river, a hobby that quickly grew into a lifelong passion.

“I think my love of camping comes from my love of freedom, open spaces, and the chance to explore and experience new things,” she says.

Katie and her family have travelled to remote and rugged locations like Lockhart River, Longreach, and Cape York’s Lakefield. One of her most unforgettable adventures was camping on the sands of Punsand Bay, near the northernmost tip of Queensland.

Despite sand being her “nemesis” as a wheelchair user, she describes the beachside location as breathtaking with its tropical scenery, stunning sunsets, and occasional crocodile passing by.

“It was just beautiful… the feeling of being right on the edge of Australia,” she recalls.

Here are some helpful tips from Katie for first-time wheelchair campers...

When packing for camping, prioritize your spinal injury needs first. This means bringing essential items such as medications, catheters, wipes, and hand sanitiser.

Set up a clean and safe space to manage daily bladder and bowel routines, and wear clothing that’s easy to put on and take off.

Take care of your skin and use a good travel cushion on long drives, and a pressure-relieving mattress to sleep on.

Consider challenges like staying clean in dusty environments and keeping warm in cold weather; this might require careful planning or even changing plans altogether.

Don’t exhaust yourself by doing tasks you don't enjoy like cooking; choose a campsite that offers catering or bring ready-made meals.

Visit camping showrooms to ensure everything is lightweight and manageable. Even tents marketed as “quick setup” might take longer. Find out what works best for you.

When packing, focus on essentials that meet your needs, like plenty of blankets if you’re sensitive to the cold.

Communicate your needs and limits clearly. For example, take proper breaks during long drives to avoid exhaustion and allow everyone to enjoy the journey more.

Bring along creature comforts, like a small bag with personal must-haves like headphones, chargers, snacks, and a favourite pillow. Don’t forget practical items like a head torch.

If you’re new to camping, consider trying a farm stay first. They often have amenities nearby, making it a great way to test your setup and get comfortable before embarking on more remote adventures.