First I completely agree with sandiego1 sentiments. On a similar note, my mother travels with a walker. Last year On the last leg ..a domestic flight of an international trip, the FA refused to let it on the plane, and my mom tired and not wanting to argue allowed it to be gate checked. It was never seen again AA did replace it after an extended correspondence, but my mom also learned to assert her rights flying to make sure it's not taken away.again I think the advice upstream to know the people and procedures available at the airports you will be traveling in is sound advice also kudos to the OP for continuing to travel and see the world..its inspiring to the rest of us