Global outdoor accommodation booking platform Pitchup.com launched an initiative to improve accessibility for travelers with disabilities. In partnership with Purple Goat, a disability-led marketing agency, Pitchup.com conducted a survey to identify challenges faced by travelers with neurodivergence, chronic illness, and physical disabilities.
The survey, polling over 2,000 respondents, revealed that 83% cited accessibility issues as a major factor in avoiding outdoor travel. Based on these findings, Pitchup.com has made several website enhancements to promote inclusivity and improve the travel experience.
Dan Yates, founder and managing director of Pitchup.com, highlighted that enhancing accessibility is both a commercial opportunity and the right thing to do. He said that the industry must ensure that adventure and outdoor experiences are accessible and available to everyone.
“Many people feel that this kind of holiday is not an option for them. We are failing the disabled community by not providing the equal opportunity to reap the many benefits of outdoor vacations, from affordability in a cost-of-living crisis to the health benefits of connecting with nature,” Yates explained.
The survey found that those who haven’t experienced outdoor vacations are 174% more likely to perceive them as inaccessible. Additionally, 95% of respondents indicated that more information about accessibility would make them consider outdoor holidays.
To address these concerns, Pitchup.com introduced new accessibility filters on its website. These filters allow users to view detailed information about site accessibility, including well-lit paths, accessible parking, and wheelchair-accessible bathrooms. Additionally, site managers can upload photos for visual confirmation of these features.
Accessible bathroom facilities were also identified as the most crucial filter by 51% of respondents, followed by entrance and exit details at 48%. Common challenges mentioned included steps, ramps, and wheelchair accessibility.
Pitchup.com is also providing business accessibility resources, including a guide for site managers with case studies and tips from industry leaders. For guests, Pitchup.com is developing guides to the best accessible activities and locations, such as the Accessible Lake District guide.
Yates emphasized that by addressing travelers’ challenges directly, the company aims to inspire the outdoor travel industry to implement necessary changes to ensure that nature experiences are accessible to all.
He noted that the collaboration with Purple Goat underscores Pitchup.com’s commitment to creating solutions in partnership with impacted communities.
Besides improving user experience, Pitchup.com’s initiative encourages site managers to enhance accessibility. This includes features like step-free access and accessible parking, which are essential for travelers with disabilities.
Pitchup.com’s survey and actions underscore the importance of accessibility in outdoor travel. These changes aim to provide equal opportunities for all travelers to enjoy the benefits of outdoor vacations, including affordability and health benefits from nature.
Since 2009, Pitchup.com has listed over 5,600 outdoor accommodation locations in 67 countries. The platform has handled £340 million in bookings, with 5 million nights booked in the last year alone.
Established in April 2020, Purple Goat has quickly grown, working with brands like Meta, Virgin Media, and BT to create inclusive marketing campaigns. Their partnership with Pitchup.com aims to improve representation and change societal perceptions of disability.
For more information about Pitchup.com, visit pitchup.com.
