Traveling With a Wheelchair or Mobility Scooter: A Practical Checklist

I spent 40 years as a nurse practitioner, now retired, and I have helped people plan for trips with a wheelchair or scooter. A little planning in advance makes the trip far easier. This checklist covers what to ask, what to pack, and what to confirm before you go.

Before you book

1. Know your device. Write down the make, model, weight, and folded size. Airlines, cruise lines, and hotels will ask for all four.
2. Check the battery. Ask what type of battery your device has and how many watt-hours it holds. Airlines limit lithium batteries, and the rules differ from one airline to the next, so confirm the current rules with each one.
3. Tell the carrier when you book. Many airlines and cruise lines want advance notice that you are bringing a mobility device, often 48 hours or more. Ask each one how much notice it needs.
4. Be ready to describe your mobility. Staff will ask whether you can walk a few steps or transfer to an airline seat, so they can plan to help you.

Before you leave

5. Take photos. Photograph your device from every side before it travels, so you have a record of its condition.
6. Pack the paperwork. Carry the owner's manual and the battery information in your carry-on.
7. Carry the loose parts. Remove the joystick, cushion, and cup holder and take them with you.
8. Practice the fold. Know how your device folds and unfolds, and allow extra time at the airport.

On a cruise or at a hotel

9. Ask the cruise line's accessibility desk about cabin door widths, and about ports where passengers go ashore by small boat.
10. Ask hotels about door widths and roll-in showers before you reserve.
11. Plan ground transportation ahead. A folding chair may fit in a regular car, but a larger chair may need a ramp van.

Choosing a chair that travels well

If you travel often, a lighter, folding chair makes every step easier, from the car trunk to the airport to a hotel room. Look for a quick-release controller, a frame you can lift into a car, and batteries designed to meet applicable airline requirements, subject to each carrier's policies.

The MAJESTIC IQ-9000 Auto-Reclining Electric Wheelchair is one example. It is remote controlled, folds, weighs about 58 lbs without the battery, and its quick-release controller comes off for easier handling and storage. We also carry folding scooters and chairs made with travel in mind from Travel Buggy, ComfyGo, and Paiseec.

Airline and cruise rules change often, so always confirm the details with each carrier before you go.

Questions?

If you are choosing a chair or scooter for travel and want to talk it through, I am glad to help. Email or text is the best way to reach me.

Sandy D Rossman, NP (Ret.)
Founder, Mobilizing Matrix
Email: sandy@mobilizingmatrix.com
Website: MobilizingMatrix.com
Cell: 762.900.0875