Everyone deserves to explore the world, no matter its size. Yet many tall travelers struggle to find inclusive and comfortable options while on vacation.
Let it be cramped airplane seats, excursions that don't accommodate different body types, or hotel rooms that don't have the necessary accommodations, traveling plus size is not without its challenges. However, with proper preparation and research, traveling doesn't have to be an anxiety-inducing experience simply because of the size of your body.
Below, PS spoke with two plus-size travel experts to help all vacationers feel more confident when traveling. With their first-hand experience and advice, you'll be ready to take your next vacation with ease.
The Best Travel Tips for Plus-Size Travelers
The first thing to do before booking a vacation anywhere is research. “Investing time in research helps you feel prepared, save money, and minimize potential challenges for a more enjoyable trip,” plus-size travel expert and content creator Jae'lynn Chaney said. Before your trip, she recommends checking out the location you want to go to, the airline, the hotel and any activities that might interest you. To make things more comprehensive, here are some key things to consider for each part of your trip. journey.
When deciding on location
Unfortunately, not all destinations are plus-size friendly, Chaney says. “Many destinations have uneven terrain, steep hills or unpaved paths, which can pose challenges for tall people, especially those with limited mobility,” she adds. Some places with older infrastructure may also lack modern accessibility features like ramps or elevators.
For this reason, Chaney recommends “researching how easy it is to get around the destination, including public transportation, sidewalks, and attractions.” You can also watch videos on TikTok or Instagram to get a “good idea of what to expect”, owner Kirsty Leanne Plus-size travel too travel blog, recommend. “It’s the most accurate way to see things in advance.”
That said, don't let your size stop you from traveling anywhere, even if it's not the most accommodating. It's your vacation and you can personalize your itinerary by staying in a hotel tailored to your size or choosing activities suited to your mobility level. In Leanne's experience, she notes, “a lot of places that I didn't think were plus-size friendly ended up surprising me.”
Chaney says the most travel-friendly places in his experience have been Las Vegas; Maui, Hawaii; Toronto; and Barcelona, Spain. “These destinations are just a few examples of places known for being plus-size traveler-friendly, offering inclusive amenities, accessible facilities and a welcoming atmosphere for travelers of all sizes,” she adds.
Leanne, on the other hand, loved Mexico. “Everyone was very friendly and welcoming,” she says, “and I never felt like my size was an issue.”
When packing
There are a few key items that Chaney recommends always packing for your vacation:
When booking your stay
Ask about room dimensions and bed weight limits when choosing where to stay, says Chaney. You can call the hotel directly or check the hotel's website. Additionally, if mobility is an issue for you, opt for a hotel, Airbnb, or other accommodation that has a working elevator or is located on the ground floor.
If you have concerns about booking a hotel room, advocate for yourself. “Communicate your needs and preferences to the hotel,” says Chaney. Depending on the request, they may be able to help you.
In flight
When booking a flight, Chaney recommends looking for airlines that offer a “big customer” policy, like Southwest. The airline allows customers who “encroach on any portion of the neighboring seat(s)” to “proactively purchase the necessary number of seats prior to travel to ensure availability of the additional seat(s).” By South-West policy, you can either pay for both seats in advance and then, after the flight, contact the airline to get a seat refund, or discuss your seating needs with the customer service agent at the gate boarding. Just note that if the flight is full, a customer service agent may not be able to respond to your request.
If you want to book outside of the Southwest, look for airlines offering seat upgrades with more legroom, such as premium economy or business class seats, Chaney says. However, if you don't want to spend extra money, Chaney recommends sitting in an aisle seat. Whatever you decide, most airlines will display their seat dimensions on their website so it's helpful to know what the space will be like before you board the flight.
Once on board the flight, if you think you need a seat belt extender, ask the flight attendant immediately after boarding. “It's easier to ask when you're boarding because they'll give it to you straight away or bring it to you for you,” says Leanne. Do not bring your own seat belt extender, as it may not be FAA approved.
Finally, if you're booking a long flight, Chaney recommends choosing a flight option with stopovers. If you're a tall traveler who can't fit comfortably in the airplane bathroom, this allows you to take bathroom breaks when you need them.
Driving
If you're renting a car, choose larger vehicles because they “accommodate taller travelers better,” says Chaney. Unlike flying, you can purchase and bring your own universal seat belt extender if you want extra comfort in the car. This seat belt extender on Amazon is easily adjustable and extends up to 14 inches.
If you are driving to your destination and using your own car, take as many breaks as necessary during the trip to stretch and move your body.
When planning your route
Whether you want to do an activity like scuba diving, horseback riding, or get a massage, look for activities that are suitable for people of all types and abilities. “Find tours, attractions, and experiences that prioritize inclusiveness and provide comfortable seating or amenities for everyone,” says Chaney. She also recommends “checking weight limits for activities and excursions beforehand to ensure a smooth experience.”
If you prefer to sightsee, understand your limitations and mobility restrictions. “Although some people can easily navigate difficult terrain or historic sites, others may face greater difficulties due to their size or mobility issues,” says Chaney. For this reason, research the tourist destination to find out how far you will have to walk, how many steps there are, and what people's general opinion of the experience is.
When eating out, it's never a bad idea to call the restaurant ahead of time to ask about their seating. Prioritize restaurants that offer booth options or armless chairs. (And if you decide to grab a bite to eat without notice, don't hesitate to specifically ask the staff for a booth or armless chair.)
“By researching accessibility options, accommodation features, and activity suitability beforehand, individuals can make informed decisions about where to travel and how to plan their trips effectively,” says Chaney.
Additional Resources
While it's normal to feel anxious or stressed while planning a trip, focus on the fun you'll have experiencing a new destination instead of thinking about the potential challenges, says Chaney. And if you ever feel uncomfortable, don't be afraid to speak up for yourself. “For me, it's all about standing up for your own rights. Whether it's asking for a more comfortable seat in a restaurant or asking for a different seat on a flight, the more you start to stand up for yourself, the more it will be easy to travel with,” says Leanne.
For additional resources, check out Leanne's website, Plus-size travel toowhich is a resource and hub for tall travelers, and Chaney's TikTokwhich has additional videos on plus size resources and tips.
Taylor Andrews is a Libra Editor at POPSUGAR specializing in topics related to sex, relationships, dating, sexual health, mental health, and more. During her six years in the newsroom, she wrote about how sperm is digested, why sexual tracking is a decision, and how overturning Roe killed situations.
