Going out on a travel mobility scooter could become a trend. This trend is not only limited to the elderly or those with mobility issues for a certain period of time, but also reaches different age groups, even young adults. Nowadays, more and more people consider mobility scooters for travel as an essential part of their lives, such as Jane, a young girl from Georgia, GA who lives with EDS.
Travel mobility scooter vs. mobility scooter: what are the differences?
Travel mobility scooters can serve as mobility scooters, but not all mobility scooters are suitable for travel. Heavy-duty mobility scooters, for example, are not an ideal choice as their weight can cause frustration and inconvenience during travel due to difficult portability. In addition to weight, the following aspects should be considered:
Size
Mobility scooters for travel often have smaller seats compared to most standard mobility scooters. This design helps save space and facilitates easy folding.
Foldable
Electric travel mobility scooters are designed to be foldable so they can fit in car trunks or be taken on various modes of transportation such as buses.
terrain adaptability
Given the varied terrain conditions encountered during travel, travel mobility scooters emphasize adaptability and safety. This includes robust suspension systems and durable tires.
functions and accessories
Mobility scooters for travel are often equipped with important features for travel, such as luggage racks, sun canopies and headlights.
distance
Typically, the range of a travel mobility scooter is between 9 and 25 miles, with some reaching 25 to 30 miles. Of course, these products tend to be more expensive due to their extended range.
If you are interested in mobility scooters and are not sure how to choose the right one, check out the "3 Wheel Mobility Scooter Buying Guide 2024".
Is a travel mobility scooter just for travel?
Is a travel mobility scooter exclusively for travel? Not at all. As well as being suitable for short or long trips, it is versatile for use at home or in combination with a mobility scooter designed for travel.
What can you do with these mobility aids? A lot. From driving around the city, exploring your surroundings, going to the beach or park, exercising, running errands, keeping your kids entertained - it fits seamlessly into various aspects of daily life. Plus, these electric mobility scooters can save you money compared to other transportation options.
Types of Travel Mobility Scooters
There are two main types of mobility scooters: standard travel mobility scooters and tandem travel mobility scooters.
standard travel mobility scooter
The standard travel mobility scooter is more suitable for people who like to travel alone. Taking two people along may violate local traffic laws and pose potential safety risks. However, the standard travel mobility scooter is much lighter than the tandem travel mobility scooter, making it more portable. Some models are even mobility scooters approved for air travel, such as the VOCIC D51 Explorer-Swift Heavy Duty 4 Wheel Mobility Scooter .
For those who want to travel with a companion, tandem travel mobility scooters are a great choice. These mobility aids are specifically designed for two people, with seats arranged side by side or in a front and back configuration. These scooters allow you to enjoy time with family or friends.
How to use a mobility scooter for travel?
Here are some factors to look out for:
rules and regulations
Familiarize yourself with and obey local traffic laws regarding the use of mobility scooters at your destination. Understand local rules and restrictions to ensure lawful use, such as speed limits, helmet requirements and seat belts.
insurance coverage
If possible, purchase appropriate insurance, including property and liability insurance. This will provide additional security during your travels.
charging and battery life
If you are using an electric travel mobility scooter, make sure the battery is fully charged and pay attention to the battery life to plan charging times during your trip.
emergency tools and spare parts
Carry basic emergency tools and spare parts, such as a pump, spare batteries and repair tools, to deal with possible breakdowns.
weather conditions
Be aware of local weather conditions, especially when traveling outdoors. Rain or extreme heat or cold may affect the performance and safety of the mobility scooter.
Should I buy or rent a travel mobility scooter?
If you plan to use a travel mobility scooter frequently for short or long trips, whether indoors or outdoors, purchasing one will prove to be more cost-saving in the long run.
However, if you are planning a vacation to Hawaii, bringing a mobility scooter with you might be inconvenient. You might ask: Where can I rent a travel mobility scooter in Hawaii instead? Should I call ahead on the day of travel? Yes, you can search online for rental information in each state and call ahead.
What considerations should be made when renting a mobility scooter?
In addition to understanding the overall rental process, factors to consider include range, net weight, pricing, tire type (all-terrain or standard), power components (removable or rechargeable batteries), accessories (storage boxes, cup holders, baskets or horns), storage options (front or rear basket, and cup holders), controls (manual or electric), seat (cushioned or swivel seat) and more.
How do I find the best travel mobility scooter?
To find the electric travel mobility scooter that suits your needs, consider the following key factors:
distance
Consider how far you typically travel and choose a scooter with a range that meets your travel expectations.
foldability
If you need to transport the scooter to different locations, choose a foldable travel mobility scooter for easy transport and storage.
terrain adaptability
Depending on your planned travel destinations, choose one that adapts to different terrains, such as models suitable for outdoor use on grass or gravel.
comfort
Check that the seat and controls are adjustable to ensure sufficient comfort during prolonged use.
security features
Make sure the scooter has the necessary safety features, including lights, alarm systems and braking systems.
price and guarantee
Consider your budget and check the mobility scooter's warranty terms to ensure adequate support after purchase.
Should I insure my travel mobility scooter?
As mentioned above, insurance provides additional protection during your travels. Currently, there are mainly two types of insurance: property insurance and third party liability insurance. Policies can cover either yourself, your mobility scooter, or both at the same time.
If you use the mobility scooter outdoors frequently, purchasing liability insurance could be a good choice. If an accident happens and you are found responsible for someone's injury as a result of using your mobility equipment, this may be able to protect you personally from liability.
The associated costs of purchasing mobility scooter insurance will vary depending on the amount insured, monthly payments, premium differences and where you live. If you decide to purchase insurance, stay in touch with your insurance provider to stay informed of any policy changes that may affect your ongoing coverage.
Conclusion
Travel mobility scooters have become a multifunctional mobility aid that is becoming increasingly popular with both the elderly and the younger generation due to their convenience and flexibility when travelling. Whether you decide to buy one or rent one, a travel mobility scooter offers numerous benefits, be it for everyday use or for long journeys.
