Ellie Simmonds, the celebrated Paralympic swimmer and BAFTA-winning documentary maker, is set to take listeners on an unforgettable journey in the second season of TUI’s Pack Your Bags podcast, launching on 25th March 2025.
Hosted by comedian and actor Russell Kane, this travel-focused podcast showcases the memorable travel experiences of its star-studded guest lineup, offering moments of humour, introspection, and inspiration.
For Ellie, the series serves as a platform to share her unique perspective as a world traveller with a disability, shedding light on the joys and challenges of globetrotting while breaking stereotypes.
Ellie Simmonds shares a unique voice in travel
Ellie, a five-time Paralympic gold medalist and trailblazer for the disability community, brings a fresh perspective to travel storytelling. In her episode, she contrasts the structured travels associated with her professional commitments with the liberating experience of backpacking with her best friend. Her adventures in Vietnam and Madagascar serve as powerful narratives of resilience, adaptability, and the universal joy of exploration.
Through Ellie’s stories, listeners gain insight into what it means to navigate diverse terrains and cultural landscapes while accommodating her needs as a person with dwarfism. Her anecdotes reveal not only the logistical challenges but also the enriching moments of connection and discovery that make travel so transformative.
Disability representation and inclusion in travel
As a prominent advocate for disability rights, Ellie’s participation in the Pack Your Bags podcast is a significant step towards promoting inclusivity in travel media. Her reflections touch on topics that are often overlooked, such as the importance of accessibility, the barriers faced by travellers with disabilities, and the value of designing experiences that cater to diverse needs.
The podcast’s format encourages guests to share their “emotional baggage” alongside their physical packing essentials, leading to honest and often deeply personal conversations.
For Ellie, this opportunity allows her to address the intersection of disability and travel, from the practicalities of navigating airports to the emotional freedom of immersing herself in new cultures.
Humour and heart in every episode
Hosted by the ever-witty Russell Kane, Pack Your Bags is designed to be both entertaining and enlightening. Ellie is just one of the many high-profile guests in Season 2, joining the likes of comedian Rob Beckett, celebrity chef Marcus Wareing, and Strictly Come Dancing star Oti Mabuse. Each episode features a mix of hilarious anecdotes, heartfelt reflections, and practical travel tips.
For Ellie, her “must-pack” items reveal not only her personality but also the creative solutions that make her journeys smoother. Listeners can expect moments of laughter and inspiration as she shares these travel essentials, alongside stories of adapting to unexpected challenges and celebrating small victories on the road.
Empowering conversation advising disabled travellers
A standout feature of the podcast is its listener-focused travel dilemmas, where guests provide advice on overcoming common challenges, such as a fear of flying or managing cultural differences. Ellie’s insights are particularly valuable for travellers with disabilities or those seeking inspiration to step outside their comfort zones.
Her episode also delves into more profound themes, exploring how travel shapes personal identity and fosters independence. Ellie’s journey – from competing on the world stage to venturing off the beaten track as a backpacker – demonstrates the transformative power of travel, regardless of physical limitations.
Bridging the gap between inspiration and action
Pack Your Bags is not just a podcast; it’s a celebration of the human spirit and the diversity of travel experiences. Ellie’s episode reinforces the importance of representation in travel narratives, inspiring listeners to embrace adventure in their own lives, whether through small steps or grand explorations.
As the world becomes more attuned to the needs of travellers with disabilities, voices like Ellie’s play a critical role in fostering change. Her stories are a testament to the idea that travel is for everyone, regardless of physical ability, and they encourage industry stakeholders to prioritise accessibility and inclusion.
A season to remember
With its engaging format and dynamic guest lineup, Season 2 of Pack Your Bags promises to be a hit among travel enthusiasts. Ellie’s episode, in particular, stands out as a beacon of empowerment and possibility, offering a glimpse into her life as an athlete, advocate, and adventurer.
Whether you’re tuning in for the humour, the heartfelt stories, or the practical advice, the podcast offers something for everyone. For those in search of a travel companion to inspire their next journey, Ellie Simmonds and her fellow guests deliver a blend of laughter, wisdom, and wanderlust that is hard to resist.
Catch Ellie Simmonds’ episode and more starting 25th March 2025, wherever you listen to podcasts. Prepare to pack your bags – not just with clothes and essentials but with a renewed sense of curiosity and courage to explore the world.