GeneralCan I Travel Abroad with My Mobility Scooter?

For some time, major carriers and tour operators have been making concerted efforts to support the requirements of mobility scooter users. There’s still a great deal of room for improvement where some airlines are concerned, but travelling abroad with a mobility scooter is nowhere near as difficult as it used to be.

Of course, planning a trip overseas with a mobility scooter calls for additional care and research. It is important to ensure that your needs will be catered to ahead of time and that all potential logistical issues have been taken into account.

In addition, ensuring you have the right scooter to take abroad with you is essential, as some devices are easier to travel with than others.

Travelling by Plane with a Mobility Scooter

It has become a legal requirement across many western nations for airlines to make the necessary concessions to enable mobility scooter users to utilise their services. In fact, disabled persons travelling to European countries are legally entitled a certain level of assistance and free carriage of essential mobility aids.

Even so, it is essential to check your preferred carrier’s terms, conditions and policies ahead of time.

Some low-cost airlines in particular do not make travel with a mobility scooter quite as simple as some of their more premium counterparts. In addition, the fact that an airline offers carriage of mobility scooters does not necessarily guarantee the appropriate level of on-board comfort for disabled passengers.

It is therefore strongly advisable to consult as many online reviews and recommendations as possible, before selecting an airline to travel with.  Alternatively, you may choose to arrange your trip with the support of an established travel agent, who can ensure a smooth trip from start to finish.

Travelling by Ferry or Cruise Ship

These days, it is comparatively rare for any kind of ferry company or cruise line operator not to make allowances for all types of mobility issues. Travelling by ferry or cruise ship can be particularly straightforward and enjoyable for mobility scooter users – particularly with one of the more established and modern operators.

Though once again, it is a good idea to conduct plenty of research ahead of time. From accessibility to comfort to the level of support provided by on-board staff, quality standards vary significantly from one provider to the next.

This is where the reviews and recommendations of past travellers can help, as can the input of an independent travel agent.

Key Factors to Consider

Along with choosing a carrier or tour operator you can count on to provide the support you need, there are three other key factors to consider when heading abroad with a mobility scooter:

1. Insurance coverage

It is essential to ensure that the travel insurance policy you take out covers not only the scooter itself, but also any accidents or injuries that may occur while using it. Some insurers include clauses and exemptions in their terms and conditions, regarding the use of motorised vehicles of any kind. Ensure you fully understand the level of coverage you have by discussing your policy with your provider, before travelling.

2. Transfers and additional transportation

You will also need to think in advance about how you will transport yourself and your mobility scooter to your accommodation, once you have arrived at your destination. In addition, any other trips or excursions you plan to take during your trip will need to be taken into account. Be mindful of the fact that accessibility is not considered as much of a priority in some parts of the world as it is in the UK.

3. Scooter convenience and portability

Choosing the very best folding mobility scooter can pave the way for an unforgettable holiday. Folding mobility scooters are designed to fold down to an incredibly compact size – often with a total weight of less than 20kg. They can therefore be as easy to travel with as a conventional suitcase and can open the door to a world of adventures.

Top-rated folding scooters for international travel include the following:

• Motion Healthcare Mlite Folding Mobility Scooter – The undisputed category leader, with a maximum range of 10 miles and a total weight of less than 20kg. This remarkably compact and convenient scooter can accommodate riders up to 18 stone in weight, with a generous seat for day-long comfort. In seconds, the Motion Healthcare Mlite Folding Mobility Scooter folds down to a size of just 70cm x 28cm x 42cm.
• eDrive Electric Folding Mobility Scooter – Revolutionary in its design, the eDrive Electric Folding Mobility Scooter folds automatically to a compact size in just 7 seconds. Along with a maximum range of 9 miles and robust puncture-proof tyres, it also comes complete with a convenient travel case for total portability.
• TGA Maximo Plus 4 Folding Mobility Scooter – Last but not least, the TGA Maximo Plus 4 combines all the benefits of a folding mobility scooter with the versatility of a road legal 6mph machine. Bursting with cutting-edge technology and essential safety features, the TGA Maximo Plus 4 boasts an impressive maximum range of 12.5 miles from a single charge.

For more information on any of the above or to discuss the benefits of folding mobility scooters in more detail, contact a member of the team at Mobility Smart today.

This is a sponsored post