Home Mobility | Wheelchair Motorized Scooter » travel

Travel Lightweight

home mobility — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 02:36:14 +0000

	Transport Folding Lightweight Wheelchair with Carbon Steel Frame, Dual Handbrakes, Padded Armrests, Detachable Footrests, and Drop Back Handle. List Price: $299.99 Sale Price: $119.99 Average Rating:
	SEAT BELT FOR ADDED SAFETY. BUILD-IN BACKPOCKET FOR ADDITIONAL STORAGE. CARBON STEEL FRAME. 17" X 16" SEAT GROSS WEIGHT UNDER 28 LBS. 250 LB. WEIGHT CAPACITY. REMOVABLE FOOTRESTS. CHROME FRAME WITH BLACK UPHOLSTERY...

Travel Lightweight

New Lightweight Travel and Transport Folding Wheelchair
US $79.99

Lightweight Black Foldable Fold up Folding Travel Cane
US $11.19

New Lightweight Portable Travel Size Folding Wheelchair
US $129.99

NEW ROLLING FOLDING LIGHTWEIGHT TRAVEL WALKER ROLLATOR
US $130.28

NEW MEDLINE LIGHTWEIGHT TRAVEL ROLLATOR ROLLING WALKER
US $79.99

Super Lightweight Portable Travel Compact Wheelchair
US $197.52

Invacare Super Lightweight Travel Compact Wheelchair
US $197.52

INVACARE Lightweight PORTABLE TRAVEL WHEELCHAIR SX5
US $196.33

NEW Lightweight TRAVEL Transport Wheelchair Wheel Chair
US $159.29

New Travel lightweight Transport Wheelchair w 18 chair
US $249.99

18 Lightweight Travel Transport Wheelchair 18LBS
US $179.00

Lightweight Folding Electric Wheelchair Travel Scooter
US $1,295.00

18 Seat Travel Chair Lightweight Transport Wheelchair
US $249.00

Majors Mobility Lightweight Black Folding Travel Cane
US $11.19

CTM Portable Travel Lightweight Power Chair HS1500
US $1,425.00

KM TV10B Travel Chair Lightweight Transport Wheelchair
US $249.00

Zipr Roo Mobility Travel Lightweight Portable Scooter
US $589.00

16 Seat Travel Chair Lightweight Transport Wheelchair
US $249.00

Travel lightweight Transport Wheelchair 15 16 18 w Bag
US $139.99

Travel Lightweight Chair Foldable Transport Wheelchair
US $179.00

Travel lightweight Transport Wheelchair 16 w Bag
US $229.99

Lightweight Loop Brake Rollator Walker Rolling Travel
US $65.00

FOLDING Lightweight Travel Wheel Chair Fold Down Back
US $107.99

Lightweight Travel Chair Flip Back Arms 16W Champagne
US $325.00

Lightweight Travel Chair Flip Back Arms Seat 18W Black
US $325.00

Lightweight Travel Chair Flip Back Arms 18W Champagne
US $325.00

Lightweight Travel Chair with Flip Back Arms Seat 16
US $325.00

Lightweight Strollers for the Family on the Go

You know parents today are more active than their baby boomer counterparts of a few decades ago. Not only do they work, but they also have active lifestyles which include exercise, socialization, and other outdoor activities in which baby should not be excluded from. Frequently, the traditional stroller does not fit this type of lifestyle. The active, energetic young couples they may want to consider lightweight strollers for their families so that their babies can be a part of any outdoor activities that are going on.

Strollers and stroller shopping are important activities parents need to do to help transport their children from one place to another. Many couples are living a very active lifestyle and they need more than the traditional stroller or a travel system stroller. Lightweight strollers can have adjustable handles and weigh, in most cases, considerably less than 25 pounds. This allows parents to be able to take not only the stroller and the child, but also allows the couple to be able to transport the stroller in their vehicles without taking up too much room.

Lightweight strollers come in many shapes and sizes, but when you are shopping for one, either to supplement a full sized stroller or just get a new stroller, keep in mind that this style of stroller is best for older babies who can already sit up on their own and toddlers as well. Make sure your selection includes safety features which keep the stroller from folding when in use and is made of materials easy to clean. Another feature to verify is the height of the handlebars. Some very tall or very petite parents require adjustable handles and handlebars to accommodate their statures.

Another form of lightweight stroller for the very active lifestyle family is a lightweight version of the jogging stroller. Jogging strollers can be quite lightweight and usually have a rather large compartment for storing baby's items underneath the seating area which can be used for toys or diaper bags or blankets. The lightweight jogging stroller is light enough for you to push the child ahead of you and at the same time get a workout that many mothers don't have the opportunity to get. You get the cardiovascular benefits from pushing a lightweight jogging stroller, but you also get the workout that allows you to work out your calves, thighs, and other leg muscles, all while taking baby out as well.

Lightweight strollers are wonderful for most families that are on the go. If a family travels a lot and moves from one place to another either by car or by air, lightweight strollers are essential in getting the baby with you to the airport, train station or bus terminal, or any other venue the family wishes to travel by. Lightweight strollers are usually less expensive than the traditional travel systems for babies and many lightweight strollers can be found online and can be purchased and shipped to your house with little to no effort at all, which is ideal for busy families!

About the Author

Learn more about
lightweight strollers
and find out why a
lightweight stroller
may be the best choice for your child. David Cummings is General Manager of Bustling Baby, a business devoted to providing baby mobility, comfort, and convenience to active families.

Which is besy laptop for travel purpose(lightweight )?

It should have in built camera,WIFI,above 1.6 prcessor ........pls help to chose

Acer Aspire One:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acer_Aspire_One

Wheelchair Brake

home mobility — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 01:35:20 +0000

	Medline Transport Wheelchair with Brakes, Blue List Price: $209.99 Sale Price: $134.50 Average Rating:
	This ultra lightweight transport wheelchair weighs only 23.5 pounds. The rear handles fold down for easy transportation.

Wheelchair Brake

New Aluminum Transport Wheelchair with Hand Brakes RED
US $165.95

NEW Invacare Lightweight Transport Wheelchair w Brakes
US $159.29

Medline Transport Wheelchair with Brakes 19 Blue
US $138.25

WHEELCHAIR PARTS INVACARE BRAKE TIPS WHEEL LOCK TIPS
US $5.95

Invacare Transport Wheelchair with 12 Wheels Brakes
US $159.29

Invacare Lightweight Transport Wheel chair with Brakes
US $159.29

Gender Wheelchair Wheel BRAKE
US $29.00

Wheelchair Brake Tip Handle GRAY 1 2 EJ Sold EACH Tip
US $5.00

Transport Folding Lightweight 18 Wheelchair w Brakes
US $99.99

Wheelchair Battlebot 24 Volt motor gearbox brake
US $225.00

Medline Light Weight Transport Wheelchair w Brakes NEW
US $139.99

19 NEW LIGHTWEIGHT TRANSPORT WHEELCHAIR W DUAL BRAKES
US $139.99

Invacare Transport Wheelchair 12 Rear Wheels Brakes
US $159.29

Wheelchair Brake Tip Handle Black 5 8 EJ Sold EACH Tip
US $5.00

Wheelchair BattleBot Jazzy Jet 3 RH motor gearbox Brake
US $95.00

Transport Chair Wheelchair hand brakes lightweight fold
US $189.95

Wheelchair Brake Lever Long Extension Handle Hand Bar
US $22.64

Medical Transport Wheelchair with Hand and Wheel Brakes
US $149.99

Aluminum Lightweight Wheelchair Hand Brakes Foldable
US $479.00

Brake Assembly for Manual Wheelchair LEFT side New
US $25.00

Invacare 19 Folding Transport Wheelchair w Brakes Red
US $159.29

Medline Transport Wheelchair with Brakes Blue NEW
US $120.00

Wheelchair Brake tips Wheel lock tips 1 pair Grey
US $5.95

Transport Chair Wheelchair hand brakes heavy duty
US $220.95

Invacare Lightweight Transport Wheelchair with Brakes
US $161.19

Medline Deluxe MDS808210AB Wheelchair with Brakes Blue
US $138.25

New Chrome Wheelchair Parking Brakes Wheel Locks
US $29.95

Expedition Aluminum Transport Wheelchair Hand Brakes
US $171.00

Medline Transport Wheelchair with Brakes Red
US $149.99

WHEELCHAIR PARTS QUICKIE WHEEL LOCK ASSEMBLIES BRAKES
US $29.95

6 Wheelchair Transport Chair Brake Handle Extensions
US $28.95

New Aluminum Transport Wheelchair with Hand Brakes BLUE
US $165.95

A Guide to The Electric Wheelchair

A wheelchair is a device that helps movement of a person who is disabled or ill. In simple terms it is a chair put upon wheels, which can be pushed either electrically or manually. Those wheelchairs that are pushed electrically are called electric wheelchairs. The electric wheelchairs are powered by motors.

There are many types of wheelchairs that you can get from the market determined by the kind and frequency of use. The wheelchairs can be used inside or outside and can be fetched at a minimum price of $1,500. when you purchase a wheelchair you must think about certain elements like source of power, warranty and cost, the size and weight of the person who would be using it, the weight capacity of the chair and efficiency of use wherever required. There are three types of wheelchairs mid-wheel drive, front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive.

The most common and traditional type is the rear-wheel drive wheelchair. They run faster that front-wheel types but are not so flexible in turning as the mid-wheel drive and front-wheel drive wheelchairs.

Slowly gaining more popularity is the front-wheel drive wheelchair because they are very flexible and can be turned around better. But because of this feature they are little bit slower than the rear-wheel drive wheelchair.

The mid-wheel drive wheelchair tends to be little bit unsteady while starting and stopping. However it is the tightest turning wheelchair.

There are many other types of wheelchairs. Some are based on weight, ranging from ultra lightweight to heavy-duty wheelchairs. Then there are transport wheelchairs, tilt-in-space wheelchairs, rough terrain wheelchairs, specialty wheelchairs, wheelchairs with an elevating seat, pediatric wheelchairs, and so on and so forth.

Basically wheelchairs are used by those persons who have been struck by many different ailments and have been left with restricted or zero mobility. The problems can include old age, weight, paralysis, broken or weak bones, failing muscles, and a variety of other causes. Electric wheelchairs are easy to manage because they work on batteries and can be manipulated by a joystick. They are also very much moveable since they can turn 360 degrees in a single spot. They also do not cause much sound. Its just that they need more maintenance than hand-driven wheelchairs.

These days electric wheelchairs are being custom made according to the needs of the patient. To improve the strength and durability of the wheelchairs, advanced technologies like pneumatic wheels, hydraulic systems and spring suspension are also used.

You will be spoilt for choices for almost every other component of an electric wheelchair. The frame of the wheelchair can be rigid or foldable while the wheels can be free wheel or front wheel. Many foot and armrests are also available like, detachable, elevating or swing away. The armrests and footplates can be designed for the individual user to adjust for both height and angle.

When you are buying an electric wheelchair the above points are only the beginning of selecting the correct design. Other crucial points to remember are the measurement of the chairs backrest and if it is foldable and/or capable of reclining, the fabric and dimension of the chair's seat, the kind of controls, hand or automatic brakes, kerb climbers and if the wheelchair will be fitted with lights. You can also attach other items on a wheelchair, including crutch holders, seat belts, a tray, anti-tap bars, drink holders, and bags.

About the Author

Rory Hawkins writes about "A Guide to The Electric Wheelchair" to visit it:
electric- wheelchair
,
power wheel chair
and
wheelchair accessories
.

sealed lead acid Battery Spark?

I plugged in my 12v 24AH batteries into my wheelchair motors, not realizing the brakes had to be disengaged, I saw a huge spark as I disconnected, and some got on the floor. The motors ran fine after wards. My question is, is this normal for such a high current drawing device to draw a spark when disconnecting?

Yes. It's normal to get a spark when disconnecting a battery from a load.
(A little technical bit) The size of the spark is directly related to the size and type of the load. If the load was brakes they might well be electromagnetic in which case the spark is likely to be greater due to the back emf generated as you disconnected.

Car Lift

home mobility — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 22:47:55 +0000

Wheelchair Lift - Mobility Scooter Lift and Electric Wheel Chair Lift with 300 lb capacity and Easy-Glide finger tip arm rotation, effortlessly loads the scooter or chair into the trunk or truck bed. Use this motorized chair lift in cars, trucks, SUV's and vans. This wheelchair lift has a 3-way boom adjustment, length adjustment from 30" to 44", angle adjustment from 0 to 45 degrees and height adjustment from 17" to 21". The Mobility Scooter Lift has an easy swivel boom that locks for transport, can be easily removed, and folds for easy storage or travel. The remote hand pendant is included.
List Price: $1,800.00
Sale Price: $450.00
Average Rating:

Car Lift

Pride Multi Purpose Battery Pack Car Lift Accessory
US $380.00

Pride Hitch Extended Tube Car Lift Accessory
US $214.00

Pride Universal Hitch Riser Car Lift Accessory
US $90.00

Pride License Plate Relocation Kit Car Lift Accessory
US $82.00

HARMAR CAR SUV MINI VAN WHEEL CHAIR CARRIER LIFT RACK
US $899.00

CAR HITCH ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIR POWER CHAIR SCOOTER LIFT
US $1,911.00

ELECTRIC POWER CAR HITCH WHEEL CHAIR CARRIER LIFT RACK
US $899.00

NEW HARMAR AL650 AUTOMATIC POWER CHAIR HPL SUV CAR LIFT
US $3,399.00

CAR SUV MINI VAN HITCH WHEEL CHAIR CARRIER LIFT RACK
US $899.00

HARMAR AL500 HANDICAP WHEEL CHAIR POWER CHAIR CAR LIFT
US $1,574.00

Harmar Micro Inside Scooter Lift Car Mobility Aids
US $499.00

HARMAR AL500 AUTOMOBILE WHEELCHAIR POWER CHAIR CAR LIFT
US $1,574.00

Bruno Wheelchair Lift Model AWL100 cars trucks vans
US $599.00

How To Properly Inspect A Used Car Before You Buy It

Many people watch out for local car deals that they find in the newspaper classified ads section. And go out to buy these lemons and not knowing what they are actually getting themselves into down the road. It is very important to know some technical knowledge about cars before buying any used car or even a new car. This article will give you some of the most targeted things to look for before you decide to spend your hard earned cash on a lemon.

Most Important Steps To Consider Before Taking Any Risk Of Buying A Lemon

(1). Take a good view at the vehicle exterior and look for tail tell signs for damage paint and deep embedded scratches. If the paint is new, ask when the car was painted last. Take notice and Beware of fixer uppers, this is a tactical that some dealers uses to fix up a used car adding cheap new details and a fix-up to hide paint job. This practice often distract used car buyers from larger problems such as underlying rust that will occur in the future.

(2). View the back of the vehicle and check the bumper including the front as you make you way around to that area. Look at the wheel wells for signs of rust, dents or body filler. Then search the rest of the vehicle for rust, Most importantly always remember to scan the underside of the vehicle for any hidden problems. Also look for dimples in the paint, dents, scuffs in the paint job.

(3). Inspect both sides of the car including under beneath the vehicle for any signs of more major body repair. Look for inconsistencies: Like for example check to see, Do the edges of the hood and door panels line up correctly with the fenders and other side panels. And check to see do the frame look aligned precisely. Such inconsistencies may be clues to previous wrecks that can cost you Big in repairs bills down the road.

(4). Inspect all the tires of the vehicle. Look for signs of irregular wear and tear like feathering, cupping, one edge wearing, center or both edges worn down.

Tip: Also make sure that the wheels are not pointed in a inward position indicating a alignment problem. Check to see if the vehicle is at the manufacture recommended tire pressure levels to insure safety driving.

(5). Open the door, check the interior for tears in upholstery, sun damage and general appearance. Make sure that all important things that you will need while driving a vehicle works properly like example...headlights, bright lights, turning signals, back stop lights, reverse lights, park lights, emergency lights. Also check basic car amenities like radio, air conditioner, heater, windshield wipers, odometer, gas meter, interior lights, for function ability.

(6). This may be the first most importantly thing you should do before you buy a used car. Lift the hood. Look at the engine overall cleanliness. Look for signs of wear and tear on components especially the timing belt and the drive belt and other belts may vary by vehicles. Make sure that the battery cables and connectors are not worn down or the battery it self is in good running condition. Inspect the engine for any signs of leaking oil around the valve cover and head gasket that may be coming from the engine. Check all attached holes for signs of busting, wear and tear and damage. Inspect under neath the vehicle to see is there any rusted out holes in the exhaust pipe manifold and muffler.

(7). Check the oil, (make sure the engine is cool) The oil level should be in between the two level marks. If you find it below the bottom level mark then this could mean a oil leak or the engine is in a critical need for oil. Also look to see have it been change recently by looking for a smooth texture yellow-brown of color. You will definitely know that the vehicle needs an maintenance oil change if the oil comes out looking burnt dark black. Next place your hands on the dipstick by rubbing it against your thumb.

Tip: If you feel small particles in the oil, By chance the engine may be worn or damage causing you costly repair problems.

(8). Check the transmission fluid with the engine idling, transmission in "Park" (some cars may have different procedures, refer to owner's manual) remove the automatic transmission dipstick and wipe it off with a clean cloth. Then insert it back in and pull it out again. Check the fluid level, low level may indicate a transmission leak. Look at the fluid very closely. It helps to drip the fluid on a white paper towel to be able to see fluid condition. The fluid on the paper towel should be clean and transparent, without any metal filings or black flakes. New fluid usually comes out red. Over the time and use it become more brownish like, but it shouldn't be black. Try to smell the fluid. It should not have a burnt smell. If you discover that the transmission fluid is too dirty or black, or smells burnt, you may need to avoid buying such a car.

Next test the car transmission for slippage

(Automatic transmission) Hold down the brake pedal set the emergency brake, and shift through the gears to see if they easy fall in place.

(Manual transmission) Set the emergency brake, depress the clutch pedal and shift through the gears to see if they easy fall in place while shifting. Also if the vehicle has a manual transmission listen out for any grinding sounds that may be coming from the transmission. Here are more signs to look out for while testing the vehicle for slippage.

Transmission Slipping Signs:

*A delay of more than a second in shifting from the neutral to drive or reverse gear, could mean that there is a problem with the transmission. If on changing from a neutral or park position to the drive or reverse gear, the car does not immediately catch the gear and move forward or backward, then it could mean a problem in the transmission.

*If you change gears, and you hear a sudden clunk or sudden jolt or shudder, then the shifting is not smooth and there could be a problem with the gearbox.

*If the engine rpm keeps increasing but there is no increase in the speed, then it could be a sign of the transmission slipping.

*Another good tip for transmission slipping signs is dripping of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) leaking from the vehicle. This could indicate an already damage transmission.

*If the car has suddenly started sounding noisy, then it could also be because of a problem in the gearbox.

*Most automatic transmission systems, nowadays, have a check engine light or an OD light, which flashes if there is a problem with the engine. You will need to have the vehicle inspected or diagnose if you can't understand the instruments problem code.

(9). Start up the engine. It should practically start up immediately. Listen closely for accurate start up ability and listen out for any sound of engine knocking or any other irregularities sounds that you do not normally hear when starting up a car. Be sure to ask questions about any sounds you are not familiar with to the car salesman.

Tip: Also check to see that there or not any engine indicator lights that comes on after starting up the engine.

(10). Next take the car for a test drive. Check the brakes at normal driving traffic conditions. They shouldn't squeal and should bring the car to a stop in a short sufficiently distance. Make sure you do not have to press the brake pedal all the way down to come at a complete stop. This is a good sign that the vehicle may have worn down brakes pads or even a serious brake problem.

One Golden Rule: is to ask to see a record of the vehicle maintenance and car report. Look to see that the car had regular oil changes and checkups (maintenance schedules will vary by model etc.). Also, inquire about additional work that may have been done on the vehicle and ask to see receipts. You can also go to carfax.com which is a leading source to find any used car history report available using their services. This is by far a great service to check out if you really want to be ahead of your class. Because most likely in some cases dealers want have access to the vehicle history records.

By following these procedures and tips..., How To Properly Inspect A Used Car Before You Buy It Is a surefire way to saving you a bundle in car repair bills and lower your risk of being stuck with a lemon. If you are in need for reliable transportation to get you from point A to B. Then we recommend CarShopster.com A Used car, New car search engine of cars for Sale Online. We have over 5 million Used Cars, New Cars, listings at Local or Nationwide dealerships and automotive resources of car sales in your area.

About the Author

CarShopster.com A car search engine founded in February 2010 to make shopping for a car easy! With use of the latest internet technologies to list cars for sale updated in Real-time.

What can i buy for my home if i need to work underneath a car? I mean in terms of a lift, not jacks.?

I know that autoshops have the pits beneath cars, but is there something that can lift the car up into the air and allow you to stand beneath it?
Also, what type of work would this be used for?

the lifts you are thinking about starts around 4000 not to mention the tall shed you would heve to have. i had to settle for car ramps start bout 20 buck :0)

Adjustable Travel

home mobility — Sat, 09 Jan 2010 16:17:02 +0000

Mini Stepper Exercisier - Ideal for toning the waist, calves, hips and thighs while burning calories. * Compact design is great for the home, office or travel * Features a unique adjustable resistance system for low impact exercise * Dual-hydraulic cylinders work independently, replicating stair climbing * Constructed of heavy gauge steel with high-impact plastic footrests * Non-skid base helps prevent unit from slipping * Built-in digital computer calculates elapsed time and number of steps
List Price: $144.99
Sale Price: $102.99

Ideal for toning the waist, calves, hips and thighs while burning calories. * Compact design is great for the home, office or travel * Features a unique adjustable resistance system for low impact exercise * Dual-hydraulic cylinders work independently, replicating stair climbing * Constructed of heavy gauge steel with high-impact plastic footrests * Non-skid base helps prevent unit from slipping * Built-in digital computer calculates elapsed time and number of steps

Adjustable Travel

Adjustable Folding Cane Black Fold Folds NEW Travel
US $11.48

6 Adjustable Folding Cane Black Fold Folds NEW Travel
US $85.85

Tri Seat Folding Travel Adjustable Seat Chair Cane
US $42.39

TRIPOD SEAT travel CANE adjustable comfy to 250 lbs NEW
US $38.25

The Economic Recession Diet for Business Travel

Cutting travel program fat without compromising strategic objectives

The global economic downturn is hitting business travel where it hurts: According to a new survey by the Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE), more than 70 percent of U.S. travel managers plan to spend less on corporate travel in 2009. The results represent a sharp shift from an earlier ACTE poll (Sept. 2008), which found that only 33 percent of U.S. travel managers were planning on cutting travel spend in the year to come.

While the ACTE survey may have focused on the U.S., the challenges faced by travel buyers and travel managers cut across all sectors of the globe. From reducing travel to tightening travel policy, and from renegotiating with suppliers to adjusting travel behavior, travel program stakeholders are intent on cutting trips and curbing expenses.

The silver lining to the financial storm clouds, says Kathy Jackson, executive vice president.

Story highlights:

* Travel buyers and managers now able to make changes that were impossible in the past

* New role for account managers in understanding and supporting client business drivers

* Changes to travel policy, approval process, traveler behavior are leading savings mechanisms for cost-conscious companies

* Demand management and online technologies are key supports

For Global Client Management at BCD Travel, is that the economy is enabling travel buyers and their respective teams to make changes that, quite frankly, have never been achievable in the past.

The challenge, adds Jackson, is to save on travel spend without compromising on business objectives: "As hard as it may be to foresee, the recession will not last forever. Companies will need to emerge from the downturn with plans for growth and solid business relationships in place- and travel is a crucial element in supporting growth and retention initiatives."

Teri Miller, senior vice president for Global Client Management in the Americas for BCD Travel, sees a major opportunity for travel management company account managers in the current situation: "Account managers need a deep understanding of the customer's business drivers to enable them to anticipate and add value, rather than react. As an example, if a client is closing manufacturing plants in three countries, our account manager will explain how travel patterns will shift as a result, illustrate what effect that may have on supplier contracts and provide a plan for optimizing potential impact."

What steps are BCD Corporate Travel clients taking to combat the recession?

Companies need to look beyond the big-ticket items, says Jackson, and filter adjustments through every component of a trip. "It may be tempting to focus exclusively on air ticket costs, but for some programs, air may make up only as much as 20 percent of total T&E expenditure. Our account managers, often with the support of a consultative engagement from Advito [the independent consulting branch of BCD Travel], help clients focus on the total cost of trip, including hotel, ground transportation and even restaurant costs."

A list of some of the decisions in which BCD Travel is supporting its clients' recession-management travel strategies is below.

The choices and decisions being made represent a major opportunity for companies to make lasting beneficial changes to their travel programs, says Jackson: "As with any diet, success is incumbent on making change a way of life, not a 30-day wonder regime."

Changes in travel policy

Growing corporate cost-consciousness is manifesting itself most prominently in the refinement and enactment of more stringent travel policies. Among the common cost-cutting elements BCD Travel is seeing: shifting from business class to coach class (variations include mandating coach class for all travelers regardless of hierarchical level and increasing the business-class flight-time threshold); down-tiering hotels (i.e., three-star instead of four-star); mandating the use of public transport rather than taxis; and retaining frequent flyer miles for business travel rather than personal travel.

BCD Travel is also seeing an increase in the use of rail and low-cost carriers within EMEA, says Felix Vezjak, senior vice president for Global Client Management in EMEA: "Companies are much more likely to accept what were formerly seen as inconveniences (i.e., secondary airports) in exchange for savings. However, particularly in the case of low-cost carriers, companies need to ensure that their travelers always use the preferred booking channels (online booking tool and agency) of choice to ensure adequate reporting and security tracking."

For further suggestions on refining and enforcing travel policy, see our Feb. 2009 article "Reliance on compliance." Changes to travel approval process

Whether it's instituting an official approval process where one might not have existed or - as is more common - making existing processes more restrictive, this cost-cutting method is winning wide-spread support among BCD Corporate Travel clients as an easy "quick win."

As part of a concerted travel-cost reduction effort, one of BCD Travel's global clients, which has over US$450 million in annual travel spend and more than 325,000 employees worldwide, changed its travel approval process radically to incorporate the following:

# No travel unless approved by a vice president on a single trip basis (<150 VPs in the company)

# No last-minute travel (under seven days' advance purchase) unless approved by an executive vice president (<15 EVPs in the company)

Demand management (travel reduction or travel freeze)

More and more companies today view demand management as one of the biggest opportunities they have to control or reduce costs without compromising their overall business goals and requirements.

Among the possible steps companies can take to reduce travel demand:

# Eliminate all non-client-related travel

# Freeze attendance at industry conventions and conferences

One BCD Travel client refers to internal meetings as the "mother of all travel," and has implemented the following methods to reduce the travel they generate:

# Prioritize video/web-conferencing for internal meetings

# Reduce number of meeting participants (all participants must be on agenda)

# Require meetings to be planned around travel, rather than vice versa

# Eliminate hotel nights before and after the meetings

# Choose meeting venues based on total cost, including travel and employee time spend

Travel management company as educational and staffing resource

BCD Travel has played an important role for several major clients in helping educate travelers and travel arrangers on a range of subjects in order to improve their ability to support the companies' savings initiatives. For some clients, BCD Travel account management has provided workshop sessions for travel bookers; for others, the company has created "Tips and Tricks" documents for cost-savvy travel that clients have made available to all travelers.

Some clients have also had to face internal downsizing, resulting in the loss of key travel personnel. In one recent case, following the departure of the travel manager, BCD Travel has been able to dedicate a resource to that role. The account manager has also supported the client by conducting analyses to forecast further headcount reduction ahead of online adoption drive. This headcount reduction has been written into the budget for 2009.

Increased use of online booking tools

In order to save on transaction costs and streamline processes, companies are increasingly mandating that all domestic or point-to-point travel be booked online. Online tools can also play an important role in supporting changes to the travel policy and to traveler behavior, says Miller: "Companies can modify booking tools to ask travelers about the necessity of a trip or offer alternatives to the journey before proceeding to booking."

Program consolidation

Finally, says Jackson, the economic downturn may present a significant "carrot" for companies that had been looking into consolidating their travel services regionally or globally: "Consolidation of multiple country services into a multinational service center, for example, can represent considerable savings in resource and process costs. However, companies must be sure that their organization is prepared to fully support consolidation in order to fully achieve the benefits. That means asking questions like, 'Do we have a consistent travel policy in place that spans the markets involved? Are there language constraints that would be met by the service center?'"

About the Author

BCD Travel is your all inclusive corporate travel agency offering competitive ongoing corporate travel management solutions to companies across Australia. We do more than simply organise your corporate travel, we also coordinate conferences and incentives and assist staff with personal holiday planning to any destination worldwide.

Allergy bracelets?

Hi, I was wondering if anyone knows of anywhere in Vancouver, BC or area that sells medical bracelets or tags?

I don't want to subscribe to a service like MedicAlert, I would prefer to have a bracelet that just points the doctors to my wallet where I have an alert card as I have one important medical condition and several allergies. Too many for one tag.

I would prefer one that is an adjustable wrist band with a waterproof insert as I will be traveling to a tropical location and swimming a lot and sailing is dangerous with a loose metal bracelet on. Even a metal ID tag will work and I can have it affixed to a watch strap.

If anyone knows a Canadian website as well that will help that would work too. I'm running out of time now so ordering from out-of-country is useless.

Thanks!

Try this website:

http://www.universalmedicalid.com/canada/

Freedom Transport

home mobility — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 03:26:26 +0000

Light 14.8 lbs Medline Freedom Transport Wheelchair 300 lb Cap Chair, BLUE
List Price: $249.00
Sale Price: $129.98
Average Rating:

Cup holder on front of chair (for patient) Backside of chair contains: key ring and multiple pockets for your billfold or iPod, cell phone, drinking bottle, and identification tag · Fold-down back for easy transport · Comfortable, "restaurant-style" arms · Seat belt for added safety · Quality by Medline Industries Specifications: Seat - 19" wide x 16" deep Seat Height - 18" from floor Folded Width - only 9" Folded Height - 28...

Freedom Transport

MEDLINE Freedom Ultralight Transport Chair Wheelchair
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MEDLINE Freedom Light weight Transport Chair Wheelchair
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NEW MEDLINE Freedom 148 lb Transport Chair Wheelchair
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Medline Excel FREEDOM Transport Chair New
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MEDLINE Freedom Lightweight Transport Chair Wheelchair
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MEDLINE Ultralight Freedom Travel Transport Wheelchair
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Medline Excel Superlight Freedom Transport Chair Red
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Medline Excel Superlight Freedom Transport Chair Blue
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Medline Excel Freedom Plus Transport Chair Red NEW
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MEDLINE Ultralight Freedom Transport Chair Wheelchair
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MEDLINE Freedom Ultralight Transport Chair Wheelchair R
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MEDLINE Freedom Ultralight Transport Chair Wheelchair B
US $143.24

MEDLINE WHEELCHAIR TRANSPORT FREEDOM RED RETAIL
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WHEELCHAIR TRANSPORT FREEDOM BLU RETAIL
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Medline Excel Freedom Plus Transport Chair Red NEW
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Medline Excel Superlight Freedom Transport Chair Blue
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Medline Excel Superlight Freedom Transport Chair Red
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Medline Freedom Transport Wheelchair Light 148 lbs
US $133.94

MEDLINE Ultralight Freedom Transport Chair Wheelchair B
US $148.41

MEDLINE Freedom Light Weight Transport Wheel Chair Blue
US $144.90

MEDLINE Ultralight Freedom Transport Wheelchair Blue
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Medline Freedom Transport Wheelchair 300 lb Cap Chair
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MEDLINE Freedom Lightweight Transport Chair Wheelchair
US $144.90

Medline Freedom 148 lbs Transport Chair Wheelchair NEW
US $159.99

MEDLINE Ultralight Freedom Transport Chair Wheelchair R
US $148.41

Medline Freedom 148lbs Transport Chair Wheelchair BLUE
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Medline Red Freedom Plus Transport Chair
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MDS808200SLRR Ultralight Freedom Wheelchair Transport
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The History of Transportation in the U.S

Jefferson proposed that a group of explorers travel across North America in search of such a waterway. Meriwether Lewis and William Clark led the exploration west from eighteen-oh-three to eighteen-oh-six. They discovered that the Rocky Mountains divided the land. They also found no coast-to-coast waterway.

So Jefferson decided that a different transportation system would best connect American communities. This system involved roads, rivers and railroads. It also included the digging of waterways.

VOICE TWO:

By the middle of the eighteen-hundreds, dirt roads had been built in parts of the nation. The use of river steamboats increased. Boat also traveled along man-made canals which strengthened local economies.

The American railroad system began. Many people did not believe train technology would work. In time, railroads became the most popular form of land transportation in the United States.

In nineteenth-century American culture, railroads were more than just a way to travel. Trains also found their way into the works of writers like Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Walt Whitman.

VOICE ONE:

In eighteen-seventy-six, the United States celebrated its one-hundredth birthday. By now, there were new ways to move people and goods between farms, towns and cities. The flow of business changed. Lives improved.

Within those first one-hundred years, transportation links had helped form a new national economy.

(MUSIC)

VOICE TWO:

Workers finished the first coast-to-coast railroad in eighteen-sixty-nine. Towns and cities could develop farther away from major waterways and the coasts. But, to develop economically, many small communities had to build links to the railroads.

Railroads helped many industries, including agriculture. Farmers had a new way to send wheat and grain to ports. From there, ships could carry the goods around the world.

Trains had special container cars with ice to keep meat, milk and other goods cold for long distances on their way to market.

People could now get fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the year. Locally grown crops could be sold nationally. Farmers often hired immigrant workers from Asia and Mexico to plant, harvest and pack these foods.

VOICE ONE:

By the early nineteen-hundreds, American cities had grown. So, too, had public transportation. The electric streetcar became a common form of transportation. These trolleys ran on metal tracks built into streets.

H. Nelson Jackson at the wheel of his Winton

Soon, however, people began to drive their own cars. Nelson Jackson and his friend, Sewall Crocker, were honored as the first to cross the United States in an automobile. Their trip in nineteen-oh-three lasted sixty-three days. And it was difficult. Mainly that was because few good roads for driving existed.

But the two men, and their dog Bud, also had trouble with their car and with the weather. Yet, they proved that long-distance travel across the United States was possible. The trip also helped fuel interest in the American automobile industry.

VOICE TWO:

By nineteen-thirty, more than half the families in America owned an automobile. For many, a car became a need, not simply an expensive toy. To deal with the changes, lawmakers had to pass new traffic laws and rebuild roads.

Cars also needed businesses to service them. Gas stations, tire stores and repair centers began to appear.

Many people took to the road for personal travel or to find work. The open highway came to represent independence and freedom. During the nineteen-twenties and thirties, the most traveled road in the United States was Route Sixty-Six. It stretched from Chicago, Illinois, to the Pacific Ocean in Santa Monica, California. It was considered the "people's highway."

VOICE ONE:

The writer John Steinbeck called Route Sixty-Six the "Mother Road" in his book "The Grapes of Wrath." Hundreds of thousands of people traveled this Mother Road during the Great Depression of the nineteen-thirties. They came from the middle of the country. They moved West in search of work and a better life.

In nineteen-forty-six, Nat King Cole came out with this song, called "Route Sixty-Six."

(MUSIC)

VOICE TWO:

Traffic in the 1950's

World War Two ended in nineteen-forty-five. Soldiers came home and started families. Businesses started to move out to the edges of cities where suburbs were developing. Most families in these growing communities had cars, bicycles or motorcycles to get around. Buses also became popular.

The movement of businesses and people away from city centers led to the economic weakening of many downtown areas. City leaders reacted with transportation projects designed to support downtown development.

Underground train systems also became popular in the nineteen-fifties. Some people had enough money to ride on the newest form of transportation: the airplane.

VOICE ONE:

But for most automobile drivers, long-distance travel remained somewhat difficult. There was no state-to-state highway system. In nineteen-fifty-six Congress passed a law called the Federal-Aid Highway Act. Engineers designed a sixty-five-thousand kilometer system of roads. They designed highways to reach every city with a population over one-hundred-thousand.

The major work on the Interstate Highway System was completed around nineteen-ninety. It cost more than one-hundred-thousand-million dollars. It has done more than simply make a trip to see family in another state easier. It has also led to the rise of the container trucking industry.

(MUSIC)

VOICE TWO:

The American transportation system started with horses and boats. It now includes everything from container trucks to airplanes to motorcycles. Yet, in some ways, the system has been a victim of its own success.

Many places struggle with traffic problems as more and more cars fill the roads. And a lot of people do not just drive cars anymore. They drive big sport utility vehicles and minivans and personal trucks.

For others, hybrid cars are the answer. Hybrids use both gas and electricity. They save fuel and reduce pollution. But pollution is not the only environmental concern with transportation. Ease of travel means development can spread farther and farther. And that means the loss of natural areas.

Yet, every day, Americans depend on their transportation system to keep them, and the largest economy in the world, on the move.

(MUSIC)

VOICE ONE

The National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. has a new transportation exhibition. "America on the Move" explores the connection to the economic, social and cultural development of the United States. And you can experience it all on the Internet at americanhistory.si.edu. Again, the address is americanhistory.si.edu/onthemove/exhibition.

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About the Author

Does anyone know when Mayor Johnson intends to take away Freedom passes from over 60's?

Just planning for my retirement and would like to know if I will be able to afford the cost of public transport.
octogen: I hope you are right!

That election programme was just a comedy spoof, wasn't it?

No? Oh!

Life realy does provide better comedy than scriptwriters then. It's official!

Travel Cart

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Packing Guide For Budget Travel

Packing properly is an important consideration for the budget traveler. Traveling on a budget means traveling light. The more unencumbered you are by junk you don't need, the more chances you will have and the less expensive your travel will be.

For instance, while the traveler with only one bag is free to hop on the inexpensive city bus and pay as little as one dollar to get into town, if that same traveler is loaded down with three or four bulky suitcases, it is likely that an expensive taxi, and a potential fare of $50 or more, may be the only option.

This is just one example of how packing light can help you keep your travel budget under control, but there are many more examples, all borne of experience. In addition to saving money, traveling light makes sense on so many levels.

For one thing, you will enjoy your trip much more if you can just head straight out of the airport, without that long wait at the baggage claim.

Traveling light also makes getting around town, from the airport and to the hotel, much easier. Carting a lot of luggage around unnecessarily is a waste of time, money and energy, and most seasoned travelers have learned not to pack too much.

Over packing, however, is a frequent mistake for the first time or inexperienced, traveler, and we are presenting the following list of tips for keeping your packing, and your budget, under control.

- As you are laying out all the things you want to take on your trip, separate them into three different piles the essential pile, the maybe pile and the non essential pile. Then put the non essential, and half of the maybe pile, back in the closet.

- If you possibly can, try to get everything that remains into one bag that can be carried on to the airplane. If you are unsure what constitutes a carry on bag, be sure to check with the airline.

- Do not pack any items that can be purchased inexpensively once you have reached your destination. Be sure, however to pack items that may be more expensive in a tourist area. One example of this, of course, is camera film. Film is often two or three times as costly in a tourist area, so if you have extra film at home bring it along.

- Keep the amount of clothing you pack to an absolute minimum. Choose clothes that can be combined into a variety of different outfits. Keeping the clothes you pack to a minimum is especially smart if you know you will be dong a lot of shopping, and buying a lot of clothes, once you arrive at your destination. Why cart your old clothes halfway around the world if you can wear your snazzy new clothes instead?

- If your vacation is a long one, do laundry while you are away instead of bringing a suitcase full of extra clothes.

- Always pack some versatile clothes. For instance, a pair of swim trunks or shorts can double as sleeping attire. T-shirts are equally versatile and comfortable.

- Pack a collapsible bag in your suitcase. This bag can be used to carry souvenirs and other purchases on the return trip.

- Be sure that all your luggage is clearly labeled with your contact information and name. Avoid putting your street address on luggage tags, however. It is best to use a post office box or a work address.

- Always place any items you need and cannot immediately replace, such as prescription drugs, eyeglasses, and important documents, into your carryon or purse.

- Place all travel documents, maps and printed itineraries on the top of the suitcase, or in a separate zippered compartment, so they will be easy to find.

- If you have an extra pair of eyeglasses at home in a drawer, you may want to bring them along, especially if you need glasses to read signs, find your way around, etc.

- Pack them in a hard sided case and place them either in a purse or a separate compartment of the suitcase. Eyeglasses can be difficult, time consuming and expensive to replace while on vacation.

- And finally, consider packing an extra wallet, with one or two credit cards but no cash, into a separate compartment in your suitcase.

- The purpose of doing this is so you will have emergency funds in the event your regular wallet is lost or stolen. If the credit cards in the suitcase are lost or stolen, they can be cancelled immediately and you will not be liable for any fraudulent charges.