Opening up the camping and outdoor world

The real adventure is about being inclusive.

What is adaptive camping?

This is so much more than a trend or a buzz word. Adaptive (or inclusive) camping and outdoor pursuits are finally getting the attention they deserve. While most indoor activities (restaurants, theatres, and galleries/even venues) have been making huge strides in being accessible to mobility impaired people, many outdoor spaces have not gotten the memo yet.

Finally, things are changing.

Many south African camp grounds, national parks and wildlife reserves no offer a much improved accessibility rating, and even those who do not have every thing in place yet, are more than willing to accommodate guests with special needs.

If you or a loved ones needs some extra help to experience th great outdoors, we suggest you plan your trip with these extra tools

AllTrails

This website gives you up to date, user generated real person reviews of the levels of effort and accessibility of most local hiking trails.

• Top Tip: They even have a whole subsection with all the local available wheelchair accessible trails, and there are more options than you would think…

SANparks

SANparks have a website dedicated to information around camping accessibility, with a focus on ablution facilities.

Pitchup

Another website with a whole subsection on accessible camps, trails and beaches in South Africa.

Accessibility at home.

Everyone loves a good get-away, but what about doing outdoorsy things at home. If you or a loved one has mobility issues, chances are that your house is already basicallyaccessible. Grabrails and ramps can get you moving around independently and with the right gear even cooking and self-care can be a solo task. The one thing that has been overlooked is…accessible braais.

Think about it

Extra long braai tongs, protective gloves and ample lowered surfaces for safely putting down food and tools can help, but what about the actual braai?

With a loose standing braai (kettle or drum-braai) the risk of bumping into it with a wheelchair or burning yourself remains high. A built-in braai is a better option, but then adjusting the griddle hight might be an issue.

That is where Chimbro steelworks comes in.

Chimbro have been making custom braais and braai-accessories for many years, and one of there most innovative braais is their roll-up braai. This braai, which can be stand alone, or used in a built-in braai, is custom made to your specs.

With a durable, but easy to use wind up handle, you can easily adjust the hight of your griddle, allowing you to braai the perfect steak.

Take Note: Chimbro braais are locally designed and manufactured, and they boast a huge array of stainless-steel accessories and tools.

Everyone can benefit.

Whether the mobility impairment is temporary or permanent, it is a good idea to educate yourself on the assistive options available t make your home safe and accessible. We know that a mobility impairment doesn’t necessarily mean that a person is wheelchair bound, but the ramps, covers and grab rails that make it easier for a wheelchair to manoeuvre can also help with many other impairments.

How to bring accessibility home.

Removable threshold ramps can help avoid trips and falls and ease the path for wheels and walking frames. The same goes for larger ramps at bigger steps.

If you are completely committed to your adventurous lifestyle, a motorised outdoor wheelchair can change your life. These machines can take you (almost) anywhere and while they are prohibitively expensive for most people, you can’t deny their power.

Don’t get stranded

Whether it is a camping holiday or a beach break, there are even services that allow you to rent a wheelchair at your destination.

Wheelchairs-ontherun

They have standard wheelchairs in all different shapes and sizes available for rental but they also have a fantastic 3-wheeled wheelchair trike that allows you to navigate rough terrain with more stability. With great off-road capabilities, this durable rigid wheelchair can open upe new worlds for you.

WheelEEZE beachwheeler sandcruiser

This is a great wheelchair for an active lifestyle. Its rugged design allows for use in all outdoor spaces, and the polyurethane balloon wheels even allow for some water access.

According to DISA, the benefits of outdoor pursuits and hobbies for people with disabilities cannot be ignored.

“Persons with Mobility Impairments can achieve important benefits by taking part in activities & hobbies, they encourage socializing, bring enjoyment and can improve your mood, reduce anxiety & stress.”

The benefits of time spent outdoors.

It may sound silly, but for a wheelchair bound person to join loved ones on a hike or camping trip, or even just to braai themselves a steak independently can be a major mood boost. No, it won’t take away their disability but for a couple of hours, it can lessen the blow of their impairment.