
Camping is an enjoyable activity for many, but for people with disabilities, it can be challenging to find accessible options. However, with some modifications, it is possible to make a camper handicap accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the great outdoors. This may include adding a ramp or lift to the entrance, installing handrails, and making adjustments to the interior layout for better maneuverability. With these adaptations, people with disabilities can experience the freedom and flexibility of camping and explore various destinations without being limited by accessibility concerns.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Entry and exit points | Wheelchair lifts or ramps |
Interior layout | More floor space for easy navigation |
Bathroom and shower facilities | Grab bars, roll-in showers, and transfer seats or shower benches |
Appliances | Oven, microwave, and fridge controls at a reachable height |
Interior controls | Light switches, heating, and air conditioning controls at an accessible height |
Furniture | Adjustable furniture for easy transfer from wheelchair |
Driving | Hand controls and swivel car seats |
Bedroom | Grab bars and adjustable support poles near doorways |
Living room | Couch canes for support when sitting or standing |
What You'll Learn
Install a ramp or lift
Installing a ramp or lift is a crucial modification to make a camper handicap accessible. This is because most recreational vehicles don't come with standard ramps or lifts, and smaller units may not be wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair.
When choosing a ramp or lift, it is important to consider the space constraints of your camper and the gradient of the ramp. A standard ramp may not fit in the tight space between RVs at a park and may need to point nearly straight up. In such cases, a modular ramp can be a good option as it provides a low gradient slope for the entrance. Modular ramps are heavy-duty, made of aluminium, and can provide a load capacity of 100 lbs. per square foot. They also come with added safety features such as handrails and toe rails to prevent wheelchairs from rolling off.
If you are looking for a more compact option, you may want to consider a lift. Lifts can be attached to the outside of the entrance door and can be designed with a chair to sit on while being lifted up or down. However, keep in mind that once inside, there may be a gap between the lift and the floor due to the stairs, which will require additional modifications.
When deciding between a ramp and a lift, it is always best to consult with an accessibility or ramp professional to determine the best option for your specific needs and constraints.
Mounting on Camper Walls: What You Need to Know
You may want to see also
Widen doorways
Widening a doorway in your camper van is a great way to make your space more accessible. This is especially important if you or someone you know requires a wheelchair to get around. The width of the doorway should be a minimum of 40 inches (101.6 cm) to accommodate a wheelchair, but 4 feet (1.2 m) is better if possible. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to widen a doorway in your camper van:
First, measure and mark the wall to indicate the new width of the doorway. Be sure to consider the required width for wheelchair access. Remove any moulding, door frames, and trim from the existing doorway. You may need to use a chisel or pry bar to carefully detach these elements, and it is recommended to use a shim to prevent damage to the drywall. Once the casing and trim are removed, you can begin inspecting the wall.
Before making any cuts, it is crucial to check for electrical wires, pipes, or other fixtures that may be behind the wall. You can do this by cutting a small hole in the drywall and using a mirror to inspect the area. Turn off the power supply to the area you will be working on.
The next step is to cut along the marked lines to create the widened doorway. Use a suitable cutting tool, such as a reciprocating saw or a rotary cutting tool, and always wear eye protection. After cutting the drywall, remove the existing framing, including the doorjamb and studs. Cut through the nails securing the doorjamb, and carefully pull out the studs.
If there is baseboard present, use a Japanese saw to cut it from the floor, taking care not to damage the floor surface. You can then pry the baseboard away from the floor.
Now it's time to frame the new doorway. Cut 2-by-4-inch boards to size, ensuring that the top stud is short enough to fit between the longer vertical studs. Secure the new stud in place with screws or nails. Install a new header and cripple studs (shorter studs) between the header and the top of the framing. Secure these in place with screws.
Attach drywall to the studs using drywall screws. Install a new doorjamb by placing it on top of the doorway and nailing it into place. Stand the side pieces in place, using shims to ensure a snug fit, and nail them in place as well. Trim any excess shim material with a saw.
Finish the doorway by nailing new casing around it, cutting the corners at a 45-degree angle with a miter saw. Apply joint compound to the joints and cover with paper joint tape. Apply a second coat of joint compound, and sand the area after it dries.
Finally, you can replace any baseboards or trim that you removed earlier. Fill any holes or imperfections with wood putty, and prime and paint the trim and walls to match your desired colour scheme.
By following these steps, you can effectively widen a doorway in your camper van, making it more accessible for wheelchair users and improving the overall flow of your space.
Staying Connected: WiFi Options for Your Camper
You may want to see also
Create an open floor plan
Creating an open floor plan is an important step in making a camper handicap accessible. This will allow for easier manoeuvrability and accessibility for those using mobility aids. Here are some tips to create an open floor plan in your camper:
Assess Your Needs
Before starting, it is crucial to consider how you plan to use the space and who will be using it. Think about the number of people, the need for seating and sleeping arrangements, and any specific requirements for individuals with disabilities. This assessment will guide you in determining the layout that best suits your needs.
Choose the Right Vehicle
The type of van you select will significantly impact your floor plan options. Consider the length of the wheelbase, the height of the roof, and whether you prefer a short or long-wheelbase vehicle. These factors will influence the available space and layout possibilities.
Optimise Space
To create an open and accessible floor plan, optimise the available space in your camper. Consider utilising convertible furniture, such as benches or couches that can transform into beds. This dual-purpose approach saves space and provides flexibility. Additionally, look for storage solutions that make the most of vertical space, such as upper cabinets or platforms with storage underneath.
Prioritise Accessibility
Ensure that the layout allows for easy manoeuvring of mobility aids, such as wheelchairs or walkers. Create wide aisles and pathways by positioning furniture and appliances thoughtfully. Make sure there is ample space around essential areas like the bathroom, kitchen, and sleeping areas to facilitate comfortable movement.
Adjustable Features
Consider incorporating adjustable features to accommodate varying needs. For example, adjustable furniture, such as beds or tables, can be customised to different heights, making it easier for individuals with disabilities to transfer from their wheelchair to a chair or bed.
Appliances and Controls
When designing your open floor plan, pay attention to the placement of appliances and controls. Ensure that items such as the oven, microwave, fridge, light switches, and heating/cooling controls are positioned at a reachable height for individuals using wheelchairs or with limited mobility.
Natural Light and Ventilation
Incorporate skylights or large windows to maximise natural light and create a sense of openness in your camper. Additionally, consider installing roof vents, especially in the kitchen area, to provide adequate ventilation.
Mock-up and Customise
Before finalising your open floor plan, create mock-up layouts to visualise how the different elements will fit together. Utilise tools like 3D design software or graph paper to experiment with different arrangements. Once you have a basic layout, customise it to perfection by adding extra details like furniture measurements, electrical outlets, and other accessories.
U-Haul Towing Services: Can They Pull a Camper?
You may want to see also
Lower heights of counters, appliances, etc
Lowering the heights of counters, appliances, and other surfaces and fixtures is an important modification to make a camper handicap-accessible. This ensures that individuals using wheelchairs or with other mobility impairments can easily reach and use these essential features inside the camper.
For the kitchen area, it is recommended to adjust the heights of countertops, appliances such as the oven, microwave, and fridge, and their controls to make them reachable for wheelchair users. This may involve lowering the surfaces or adding flip extensions to countertops to provide more accessibility when needed.
Additionally, consider the height of light switches, heating and air conditioning controls, and other interior controls. These should be lowered or adjusted to an accessible height to allow for ease of use for all campers.
In the bathroom, consider installing a roll-in shower or wet bath with a lowered lip to prevent flooding while ensuring wheelchair accessibility. Assist bars and grab bars can also be added near the shower and in other areas of the bathroom to provide stability and support for individuals with mobility impairments.
Some higher-end campers may even offer adjustable headrests for beds, allowing them to be raised or lowered with a power switch to accommodate different needs.
Seamless Aluminum Camper Hole Fixes: Easy Tricks
You may want to see also
Add adjustable headrests
When making a campervan wheelchair-accessible, it is important to consider the comfort and safety of the user. Adjustable headrests are an important feature to ensure the user's comfort and safety. They can help prevent whiplash and other serious injuries in the event of a collision.
To add adjustable headrests to a campervan, you will need to consider the following:
Type of Adjustable Headrest
Firstly, determine the type of adjustability you want. Some headrests allow you to increase or decrease the height, while others let you adjust the tilt. There are also more complex adjustable bed frames that allow the head and foot sections to rise separately. This will require a more intricate setup and may be more costly.
Compatibility
Before installing adjustable headrests, check if your campervan seats have the necessary holes for installation. If your seats do not have these holes, you may need to install a compatible backrest or headrest first.
Installation Process
The installation process for adjustable headrests is relatively straightforward. Line up the spokes of the headrest with the holes on the top of your seat, slide it into place, and lock it using the provided tab. To adjust the height, push the tab inward and slide the headrest up or down until it clicks into place.
Positioning
For optimal safety and comfort, it is crucial to position your adjustable headrest correctly. Here are some tips to help you set the headrest at the right height:
- Keep the top of the headrest level with the top of your head.
- Ensure the middle of the headrest is aligned with your ears and never positioned lower than them.
- Minimise the distance between the back of your neck and the headrest; ideally, aim for a distance of 3 to 4 inches.
Cost
If you are considering purchasing adjustable headrests, it is worth noting that they can be a little tedious and expensive to install after buying the campervan. The cost of adjustable headrests varies depending on the make and model, but they are generally affordable.
By adding adjustable headrests to your campervan, you will not only enhance your comfort but also increase the safety features of your vehicle, providing peace of mind during your travels.
Camper Van Makeover: DIY Guide to Fixing Up Your Van
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
With a handicap-accessible camper, you can travel wherever and whenever you want. You are not limited by the availability of accessible transportation or lodging options. You can also bring any specialized medical equipment you may need without compromising on space.
A handicap-accessible camper will have accessible entry and exit points, such as a wheelchair lift. It will also have a spacious interior layout for easy maneuverability and accessible bathroom and shower facilities with grab bars.
Ensure that appliances, interior controls, and furniture are at a reachable height or adjustable for wheelchair users. Check for wider doorways, open floor plans, and height adjustments for countertops and tables.
Most handicap-accessible campers have swivel car seats that allow you to transfer from a wheelchair to the driver's seat. However, you may need to install hand controls to be able to drive directly from your wheelchair.
Yes, many campgrounds and RV parks offer accessible campsites and facilities designed for individuals with disabilities. These may include wheelchair-friendly trails, accessible restrooms, and other amenities.