Mobility Scooter Travel on Airplanes

Mobility scooters can help people restore their sense of independence and prices be able to go out on their own, without anyone else's assistance. They also help speed up the recovery of people by allowing them to walk, shop and socialize with others.

Many airlines will allow your scooter to be carried for free if you inform them and provide the necessary documentation. They will require the model, make and battery size.

Check with Your Airline

Traveling on planes can be stressful for anyone, but especially for those with mobility issues who have to navigate narrow corridors and steep curbs. Many airlines offer special services for mobility scooter users. Contact your airline at least 48 hours prior to departure to learn what steps you need to follow to bring your mobility scooter onto the plane.

Most airlines require documentation from you doctor to confirm the need for your scooter. Some airlines may also require information on the scooter's model, manufacturer and model as well as the type of battery. Be sure to take photographs of your scooter before you leave for the airport to record its condition in case it is necessary to file a claim.

Researching airlines with a good reputation for handling mobility scooters is an crucial step. Find reviews from passengers who have travelled with their mobility scooters, and think about an airline that is low-cost and has high ratings from customers If you can.

It is important to know that you can choose whether or your scooter will be gate checked, or if it will need to go in the cargo hold. It is recommended to select the gate-checking option since your device will be returned at the entry point of your plane to avoid any delays or at your final destination.

If you have to check your scooter, the airline worker will place a tag on the scooter and then transport it to the cargo hold, which will then place it in a bin specifically designed for air travel. Allow plenty of time for your journey to the airport to allow the airline to make all the necessary arrangements.

The most commonly-held misconception about mobility scooters is that their lithium or lead-acid batteries aren't able to be transported on aircrafts. Fortunately, these kinds of batteries are designed for safe air travel, and most airlines allow for use on their planes. In fact, some even require the batteries to be identified as these.

Take your Scooter and Batteries with you.

There's a belief that mobility scooters can't be used on planes, but the reality is far from it. You can bring your scooter with you on the plane and enjoy your vacation without any restrictions.

To prepare your scooter for travel, pick one that is easy to disassemble or folded. Smaller models like the Pride Go-Go Elite XL, or a compact scooter such as the iRide Mobility Rover are perfect because they can be disassembled or simply broken down into parts and fit in the back of the car boot which makes them the ideal option for travel.

You'll need to consider the kind of battery and the capacity to meet the requirements of your scooter. Find a battery that is marked with an amp hour rating which is a good indication of its power output. You can find scooter batteries that have different amp hours at various prices, so make sure you're aware of which is best for your needs.

Some mobility scooters come with a light on the battery that informs you of how much charge is left and even offers an estimate of the time to run, which can be very useful if you intend to use your scooter while traveling. Another helpful feature is a movable basket that can be positioned on either the front or back of the scooter, so you can store your possessions while traveling.

When shopping for a new mobility scooter, you'll want to make sure it can handle both smooth and rough outdoor terrains and indoor surfaces as well as minor inclines. The iRide Rover, for instance, is built to handle all of this and more. It can hold up to 265 pounds and its wheels will never be flat. They are foam-filled, flat-free and non-marking.

Another option is the Mojo scooter made by Enhance Mobility, which boasts two batteries that are integrated into the frame that can hold riders up to 300 pounds. The seat is padded and adjustable to fit different body types and be turned. It also features electronic brakes and a speed control.

Check Your Scooter's Documentation

Take into consideration where and when you will use the mobility scooter before purchasing. This will help determine which model is most suitable to the needs of the user. If the scooter is only used indoors, it might not be as robust as a outdoor model. It may not require as much clearance from the ground as the majority of indoor scooters have three wheels (one in front and two behind).

There is also the question of how fast a scooter can travel. Some indoor scooters can only travel as fast as a person walking, and therefore cannot be used on roads. Some people only need to travel short distances such as to the library or shops. A mid-range scooter can suffice.

The controls of the scooter may determine the model you select. Some scooters can be controlled by pushing or prices pulling a lever similar to a bicycle's crank, while others have a delta handlebar that permits the user to push and pull with the thumb and fingers.

Another consideration is whether the scooter will need to be able to fold or break down for transportation. Some mobility scooters that travel can be broken down into smaller pieces to fit in the trunk. Some aren't permanent and don't include this feature.

Make sure your mobility scooter passes safety inspections of the airline prior to you take off. It's also a good idea for you to take photos of your scooter prior to handing it over to the airline. This will be helpful should you need to make an insurance claim for damaged equipment in the future.

It is also essential to be aware of the class in which the scooter is classified. The class of a vehicle can be determined by the weight and whether or not it comes with indicators and lights. A scooter classified as class 2 is only permitted to be driven on sidewalks and indoors. However the class 3 scooter is able to be driven on highways and is equipped with lights and indicator.

Get ready for check-in

TSA Pre-Check is the most efficient way to travel through an airport on your mobility scooter. It allows you to skip the long lines of security and make it to the checkpoint before other passengers. You'll have to wait in a normal line as TSA agents check your scooter and run their routine drill. They might use a hand-held tool or other tools to check the inside of your scooter.

Photograph your scooter prior to checking it in at the airport. This will allow you to have "before and afterwards" evidence in the event that your device is damaged during transportation. The pictures should show the model and make and the kind of battery your mobility scooter uses (non-spillable lithium-ion batteries are typically suitable for flights).

If you plan to bring a spare battery with you ensure that it is in your carry-on bag. This should also be non-spillable lithium ion, and should not exceed 160 watts. This type of battery is considered safe for use in airline travel. Airlines will not charge extra for this battery, however, crews will inspect the batteries and electrical connectors before taking you on.

In certain instances it's possible to disassemble your scooter in order to transportation. It's a great idea to attach the disassembly guide from the owner's manual for your scooter to the scooter if this is the situation. These will help the baggage handlers to properly stow the scooter in their cargo area and ensure that it reaches the destination safely.

Many scooters today are equipped with original designed accessories for holding canes, bags and more, and which can be removed when not in use. These innovative features make it easier than ever before to take a scooter with you on air travel. You can also relax with peace of heart knowing that your mobility equipment will be in good hands. Talk to a professional on scooters today to discuss the best travel mobility scooter options for your next vacation.