How to Travel with a Mobility Scooter
When travelling with a mobility scooter, portable is the way to go. Although mobility scooters can open up a world of opportunities for those with limited mobility, they can still feel like an inconvenience due to their bulky nature. As a result, navigating the logistics of travelling with a mobility scooter can be daunting for many. With planning, preparation, transportation, and accommodation, there’s a lot to consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. To that end, we’ve put together this helpful guide to travelling with a mobility scooter, empowering individuals to embark on journeys with confidence.
Planning and Preparation
Research and Select a Portable Mobility Scooter
Before your travels physically begin, you’ll need to select a mobility scooter that suits your needs and preferences. Size, weight capacity, battery life, and portability are all things you need to consider, meaning you should go for a model that’s lightweight, foldable, and easily manoeuvred.
Check Travel Regulations About Travel Mobility Scooters
Airlines, trains, buses, and cruise ships all tend to have specific regulations regarding the transportation of mobility scooters. Therefore, it’s important that you research the policies in advance so that you don’t encounter any surprises or setbacks on your day of travel. Size restrictions, battery requirements, and documentation/certification all need to be considered.
Plan Your Itinerary
With a mobility scooter, it’s vital to consider the accessibility of the locations you’re planning to visit. You’re going to want to find accessible attractions, accommodations, and transportation options to reduce hassle as much as possible. This also means prioritising destinations that are wheelchair- and scooter-friendly, with smooth pathways, ramps, and accessible facilities.
Arrange Assistance and Support for Your Travel Scooter
You may require assistance and support during your travels; if so, it’s a good idea to get in touch with airlines, hotels, and tour operators about the necessary accommodations ahead of time. This might include wheelchair assistance, accessible rooms, or transportation services. It’s important to be proactive about communicating your needs to guarantee a stress-free and comfortable journey.
Transportation
Flying with a Mobility Travel Scooter
When booking a flight, you should notify the airline about your mobility scooter. Don’t forget to include details such as the dimensions, weight, and battery type to make sure they comply with the airline’s policies. For instance, a lot of airlines will request that the battery be disconnected and the terminals be taped during transit to avoid accidental activation. Additionally, you might request gate delivery for your mobility scooter to reduce the risk of damage during handling. This will allow you to use your scooter until boarding and have it returned to you once you arrive at your destination.
Travelling by Train or Bus with a Travel Foldable Mobility Scooter
Ramps, lifts, and designated wheelchair spaces are just some of the accessible features offered by most trains and buses. In order to ensure that these are provided on the service you’re travelling with, be sure to check with the provider in advance. In spite of these accessible features, you may be required to secure your scooter with straps or tie-downs provided by the transportation provider. Make sure you’re familiar with the securing process to guarantee a safe and stable journey.
Cruising with a Mobility Scooter
It’s important to enquire about accessible cabins with wider doorways, roll-in showers, and ample space for manoeuvring a mobility scooter when booking a cruise. Typically speaking, cruise ships offer accessible routes and facilities, such as elevators, ramps, and wheelchair-friendly amenities, meaning you can explore the ship with ease.
Accommodation
Accessible Accommodations
It’s a good idea to find hotels, resorts, and rental properties that offer accessible accommodations for mobility scooters. Top things to consider include accessible entrances, pathways, and facilities. Similarly, you’ll need to ensure that your chosen accessible room meets your specific needs (e.g., wide doorways, roll-in showers, and sufficient space to manoeuvre your scooter).
Communicate Your Needs
Ahead of your arrival, you should get in touch with the accommodation provider to verify your accessibility requirements and make sure the necessary arrangements are in place. Also, don’t feel as though you can’t communicate any additional needs or concerns to the staff during your stay; after all, they’re there to help and provide you with a comfortable stay.
Exploring Your Destination
Sightseeing and Activities
There are a number of accessible attractions, tours, and activities out there, so make sure that you find these. The most popular tourist destinations will provide accessibility information on their websites. Unfortunately, not every activity will be designed for mobility scooter use, so you might also want to consider alternative transportation options, including accessible taxis, shuttle services, or guided tours.
Safety and Comfort
When navigating with a mobility scooter, you need to pay attention to the terrain and environmental conditions. This means avoiding rough or uneven surfaces in which you may tip or get stuck. Similarly, you should always ensure that you’re hydrated and rested, especially in hot or humid conditions. Always make sure to pace yourself and listen to your body.
Shop the Best Portable Mobility Scooters at Pride Mobility
If you’re a mobility scooter user and you’re about to embark on a journey, then Pride Mobility is here to provide all manner of travel scooters. Shop the collection here.