Accessories for your Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV)

A Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) can be life changing. It offers freedom, flexibility and the ability to travel with confidence and gain independence. There’s much to take into consideration when choosing the right WAV for you, but when you’ve found the right one, the journey doesn’t stop there.

There are so many accessories on the market that can make travelling more comfortable, safer and less stressful for everyone involved. Some are designed to improve accessibility, while others simply make everyday journeys smoother and more enjoyable. From practical storage solutions to technology that helps you park with confidence, there are plenty of ways to get even more from your vehicle.

In this blog we’ll explore some of what we think are the best WAV accessories worth considering.

If you transfer from a wheelchair to a vehicle seat, you will realise that this seemingly small task can be one of the most physically demanding parts of a journey.

A swivel cushion can help reduce twisting and strain by allowing the user to rotate more easily when entering or exiting the vehicle. They’re lightweight, portable and don’t require any permanent modifications.

For those who regularly transfer into a driver’s or passenger seat, transfer boards and slide sheets can also make the process safer and more comfortable.

Sometimes the simplest accessories make the biggest difference.

Running low on battery can quickly turn a good day into a stressful one.

If you use a powered wheelchair, having a charging system in the vehicle can provide valuable peace of mind. These chargers are usually portable plug-ins however, depending on the WAV and model of wheelchair, they can sometimes be installed permanently.

They’re particularly useful for longer journeys, holidays and days when you’re constantly on the move.

Often WAVs are larger than standard cars and can take time to get used to. Parking sensors are already popular, but pairing them with a reversing camera provides even greater visibility. Cameras can help drivers spot low obstacles, kerbs and pedestrians that may not always be visible through mirrors alone.

For rear-access WAVs, where space is needed to deploy a ramp safely, being able to position the vehicle accurately can be invaluable and can save time and aggravation having to manoeuvre the vehicle once it’s first parked.

Even with modern vehicle technology, blind spots still exist. WAV users can create a wider field of vision by installing panoramic mirrors. This can improve awareness when changing lanes, reversing or manoeuvring. Many drivers find they quickly become an essential part of everyday driving once they get used to them.

While the mirrors included within the majority of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles have excellent range, there are still blind spots that cannot be avoided. For optimal safety while driving, adding panoramic mirrors to your rear-view mirror can eliminate all blind spots. It is worth noting that these mirrors may take a little time to get used to, but once you have the hang of them, they’re ideally suited to this particular purpose.

Wheelchairs, walking aids, muddy shoes and wet weather can all take their toll on a vehicle interior.

Heavy duty removable mats help protect flooring and are easy to clean, while non-slip surfaces provide additional grip when loading and unloading wheelchairs. This is especially useful during the winter months when ramps and flooring can become slippery.

Even if your WAV already has an integrated ramp, a lightweight portable ramp can be incredibly useful. They can help overcome unexpected obstacles such as high kerbs, uneven surfaces or inaccessible entrances when you’re away from home.

Anyone who travels regularly with mobility equipment knows how quickly a vehicle can become cluttered. Seat organisers, storage nets and accessible compartments help keep essential items within easy reach. Medication, charging cables, Blue Badges, paperwork and personal belongings are all easier to find when everything has its place.

Good organisation can make a surprising difference to stress levels during a journey.

While they may seem like a small addition, protective Blue Badge holders help keep badges clean, visible and in good condition. Many also include storage for parking permits, insurance details and emergency contact information, ensuring everything is available when needed.

Dash cams have become increasingly popular with drivers in recent years. For WAV owners, they offer an extra layer of reassurance by recording incidents on the road and helping to provide evidence in the event of an accident.

Some models also include parking surveillance features, which can be useful when your vehicle is left unattended.

Carrying a basic emergency kit is a basic in any vehicle, but for WAV users it can be particularly important. Here are some of the items we think WAV users should consider including:

Comfort is key. Long journeys can become tiring if temperatures inside the vehicle fluctuate significantly. Window shades help reduce glare and heat during summer, while heated seat cushions and lap blankets can improve comfort during colder months. These small additions can make travelling far more enjoyable.

The best WAV accessories aren’t always the most expensive. They’re the ones that solve everyday problems and help you travel and enjoy everyday freedom with greater confidence.

What works for one person may not work for another. Your ideal setup will depend on how often you travel, whether you’re a driver or passenger, the type of wheelchair you use and the challenges you face whilst on the road travelling.

The good news is that today’s market offers more choice than ever before. Whether you’re looking to improve safety, increase comfort or make journeys more convenient, there are countless ways to tailor your WAV around your individual needs.

At Fish we understand the huge role a WAV plays in an individual’s life and in supporting their freedom and independence. That’s why we know that every improvement matters.