10 Apps To Help You Control Your Mobility Scooters Travel
Mobility Scooter Travel on Airplanes
Mobility scooters enable people to gain their independence and be independently without needing anyone else's assistance. They also help speed up recovery by allowing people to walk or shop and also interact with other people.
Most airlines will permit you to travel with your scooter for no cost as long as you notify them and provide necessary documentation. They will ask for the model, make and battery size.
Make compact travel mobility scooter to check with Your Airline
Traveling by plane can be stressful for anyone however, it is especially stressful for those with mobility issues who must navigate narrow corridors and steep curbs. Many airlines are aware of the needs of mobility scooter travelers and are able to provide special accommodations. It's a good idea to contact your airline at least 48 hours prior to your flight to ask what steps you need to take to bring your scooter onboard.
lightweight folding travel scooters require a medical certificate from your physician to confirm the need for your scooter. Some may also request information about your scooter's make models, model, and battery type. Be sure to take pictures of your scooter before you leave for the airport to document its condition in case it is necessary to file a claim.
Another important aspect to consider when flying on a mobility scooter is to research the airlines that are well-known for their handling of these types of devices. Find reviews from passengers who have traveled with their scooters, and consider an airline with low cost that has a high rating for customer satisfaction when you can.
It is crucial to know that you can decide whether or whether your scooter will be gate checked or if it'll need to go in the cargo hold. The gate-checking option is preferable, as it will mean that your scooter will be returned to you at the airport door for any layovers, and at your final destination.
If you need to inspect your scooter, the person working for the airline will attach a tag to it and transport it to the cargo area, where it will be placed in a special bin for air travel. Plan ahead for your trip 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 prevent them from being transported on aircrafts. Luckily, these types of batteries have been designed to ensure safety during air travel, and most airlines approve for use on their planes. Some even require that the batteries be clearly labeled as such.
Take your scooter and batteries with you.
There's a belief that mobility scooters are not allowed on airplanes, but the truth isn't as simple as that. You can take your scooter on an airplane and enjoy your vacation without any restrictions.
The first step to prepare your scooter for travel is selecting one that is easily disassembled or folded. Smaller models like the Pride Go-Go Elite XL, or a compact scooter, such as the iRide Mobility Rover, are ideal because they can be disassembled or simply broken into pieces and fit into the back of a car boot, making them the perfect option for traveling.
You'll need to consider the type of battery and its capacity for the scooter you're using. Look for a battery labeled with an amp-hour rate, as this is a good indication of its power output. You can find scooter batteries that have different amp hours at a variety of price points, so make sure you are aware of which is best for your requirements.
Certain mobility scooters feature an indicator for the battery that indicates the remaining power. It can also give you an estimate of how long it will take to complete. This can be useful when planning on using your scooter for traveling. A basket that can be removed is placed on either the front or back of the mobility scooter. This lets you store your belongings when out and about.
When you are looking for a new mobility scooter, you'll need to ensure it can handle rough and smooth indoor surfaces and outdoor terrain, as well as slight inclines. The iRide Rover, for instance is designed to take on all of this and more. It can hold up to 265 pounds, and its wheels will never go flat. They are foam-filled, flat-free and non-marking.
Another alternative is the Mojo scooter by Enhance Mobility, which boasts dual batteries integrated into the frame, and can hold riders up to 300 pounds. The padded seat can be adjusted to fit various body types and can be rotated. It also has electronic brakes and a speed control.
Check the Scooter's documentation
When purchasing a mobility scooter, it is important to think about where and when the device will be utilized. This will help determine which model is most suitable to the requirements of the user. If the scooter is used indoors, it might not be as robust as a outdoor model. It also won't require as much clearance from the ground as the majority of indoor scooters come with three wheels (one in front and two behind).
There is also the issue of how fast a scooter could travel. Some indoor scooters are able to be at the speed of walking, which means they can't be used on the road. Some people will only require short distances for places such as the library or shops and a scooter that is mid-range may suffice.
Lastly, the scooter's controls will also play a role in which model to choose. Certain scooters can be controlled by pulling or pushing a lever that is similar to the tiller of a bicycle, whereas others have a delta-shaped handlebar that lets the user pull and push with their fingers and thumbs.
The final thing to consider is whether the scooter can be folded or broken down for transportation. For instance, some travel mobility scooters are designed to break down into smaller pieces and can even fit into the trunk of the car. Some are permanent and don't come with this feature.
Make sure that your mobility scooter passes the safety checks of the airline prior to you travel. It's also recommended to take photos of your scooter before handing it over to the airline. This will help if you have to submit a claim for damaged equipment in the future.
It is also important to know the class in which the scooter is classified. In certain instances the scooter's class can be determined by its weight and whether it has lights and indicators. For instance, a vehicle that is class 2 is only able to be used on sidewalks and indoors, while the class 3 scooter is suitable for highway use and comes equipped with indicators and lights.
Prepare for Check-In
The best method to navigate an airport with your mobility scooter is to have TSA Pre-Check, which gives you a shorter line for the security checkpoint, and the chance to get ahead of the rest of the passengers. Otherwise, you'll need to wait in a normal line as TSA agents walk you and your scooter through their usual drill, checking bags, metal detectors, body scanners, and X-ray machines, while they might use a wand that is handheld or other tool to inspect the inside of your scooter.
It's a good idea to take pictures of your scooter prior to when you check it in at the airport to ensure you have "before and after" evidence in case your device gets damaged during transportation. The photos should show the model and make, as well as the kind of battery that your mobility scooter is using (non-spillable lithium-ion batteries are usually suitable for flights).
If you're planning to carry an extra battery, have it ready in your carry-on bag. This should also be a non-spillable lithium ion and should not exceed 160 watt hours. Airlines consider this type of battery safe for airline travel and will not charge extra for it, but the crew will want to check the batteries and electrical connections prior to when they allow you to board.
In certain instances, it may be necessary to disassemble your scooter in order to transportation. If this is the case, it's a good idea to attach clear and concise disassembly instructions from your owner's manual the scooter. These instructions will assist baggage handlers to know how to properly store your scooter in their cargo hold, ensuring that it arrives in good condition.
Many scooters are fitted with original accessories that can hold canes, bags, and many more. These accessories are easily removed when not in use. These new features make it easier than ever before to pack a scooter for air travel. You can also enjoy your trip with peace of mind, knowing that your mobility equipment will be in good hands. Talk to a professional on scooters today to discuss the best options available for your next trip.