Traveling Abroad with a Mobility Scooter or Wheelchair: A Confidence-Boosting Guide

A traveler in a wheelchair waits at an airport gate, illustrating the possibility of air travel for those with mobility aids.

Traveling abroad with an electric wheelchair or foldable mobility scooter can feel daunting, especially if you rely on a mobility aid daily or even only occasionally. The good news is that with proper preparation, the right equipment, and knowledge of your rights, you can confidently explore the world. Airlines and airports today offer extensive support for disabled travelers, and specialized products (like lightweight travel scooters and airline-safe batteries) make the journey easier. This practical guide will walk you through choosing and preparing your mobility device, understanding airline assistance (with a focus on Europe), what to expect at the airport, insurance considerations, and how to care for your equipment while traveling. Let’s get you ready for a smooth, worry-free trip!

Preparing Your Mobility Equipment for Travel

Choose the right mobility aid: If you use a wheelchair or scooter daily, ensure your model is suitable for travel. Many travelers opt for a secondary lightweight folding wheelchair or scooter for holidays. For example, Our MX-1 electric wheelchair weighs just 27.5 kg and folds in one step – it’s specifically approved for airline travel and ideal for holidays. Its design includes an airline-approved lithium battery that meets flight regulations. If you only need mobility assistance occasionally, you might consider a compact travel scooter instead of relying solely on airport wheelchairs. A model like our SF-3 Auto-Folding Travel Scooter folds and unfolds at the touch of a button and even doubles as a rolling suitcase when folded, making it perfect for infrequent use on vacations. (If an electric scooter is more than you need, a lightweight manual travel wheelchair is another option for occasional mobility support.)

Check airline battery rules: One key preparation for electric wheelchairs/scooters is the battery. Airlines only permit certain batteries for air travel. In general, lithium-ion batteries above a certain size (typically around 300 Wh) are restricted. Safety regulations “only permit electric wheelchairs to be taken on a plane if they have airline friendly lithium batteries." This means you should ensure your battery’s watt-hour rating is within allowed limits (often up to ~300 Wh for installed batteries, or 2×160 Wh for spares). If your current battery is too large, consider obtaining an airline-friendly battery for your device. (For instance, at Mobility Extra, we offer an Airline Friendly Battery on models like the MX-ULTRA Electric Wheelchair.) Fortunately, many modern travel scooters and Electric Wheelchairs come with compliant batteries by default, At Mobility Extra we include flight-safe batteries with all of our models like the popular  MX-1 and MX-1R.

Plan for two mobility aids: If you use multiple mobility tools (e.g. a electric wheelchair and a walker), you’re in luck – aviation rules in the UK and EU entitle you to carry up to two pieces of mobility equipment free of charge, in addition to your normal luggage. This means you won’t pay extra baggage fees for your wheelchair, scooter, or other assistive devices. Take advantage of this by bringing whichever aids will make your trip easier (for example, a small folding walker for use in narrow spaces and your scooter for longer distances).

Notify the airline in advance: Well before your flight (ideally at booking or at least 48 hours in advance), inform the airline of your mobility needs. Provide details about your wheelchair/scooter: the make, model, dimensions, weight, and battery type. Let them know if it folds or disassembles and how to handle it safely. Supplying the manufacturer’s user manual or your own written handling instructions can be very useful for ground staff. Early notice allows the airline to make proper arrangements (like allocating cargo space or special lifting equipment). It also ensures you’ll have assistance staff ready for you at the airport.

Airline Assistance and Accessibility Services

Airlines in Europe (and beyond) are required to support disabled travelers, and many go above and beyond minimum requirements. Under EU law (Regulation 1107/2006), passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility are legally entitled to “special assistance” when flying, provided free of charge by airports and airlines. In practical terms, this means staff will help you through the airport, onto the plane, and to your seat – even if you only need a little extra help. However, the level of service and extra amenities can vary by carrier. Here’s a look at some top airlines known for excellent accessibility, as well as what budget airlines offer, so you can pick an option that fits your needs:

1. British Airways (UK): British Airways has made big strides in disability awareness. In 2022, BA became the first UK airline to officially recognize the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard scheme. (Wearing a sunflower lanyard signals to staff that you may need a bit more time or assistance, without having to repeatedly explain your condition.) BA’s special assistance team will help with pre-boarding, transfers through the airport, getting to your seat, and even mobility assistance during the flight. For example, if you need to visit the lavatory on board, crew can provide an onboard wheelchair and help you navigate to the restroom door. BA also accommodates service dogs on flights and generally strives to make travel “simple and easy” for those with extra needs.
   
   

2. Virgin Atlantic (UK): Virgin Atlantic is another disability-friendly carrier with a comprehensive assistance program. They can arrange help at the airport, during boarding, in-flight, and even at your destination (especially if you book a package holiday through Virgin). For travelers with mobility issues, Virgin will pre-arrange airport wheelchairs or electric buggies to get you to/from the aircraft. They offer priority seating for disabled passengers and have onboard wheelchairs available on their wide-body aircraft. Notably, Virgin provides a printable notification for those with hidden disabilities, you can discreetly inform the crew of any non-visible condition by handing them this document, so they’re aware if you might require assistance. Overall, Virgin Atlantic’s staff training and policies make them a top choice for long-haul travel with a wheelchair. Virgin offers assistance when traveling via this link. 
   
   

3. Emirates: Although based outside Europe, Emirates is frequently used by European travelers for long-haul trips and has an excellent reputation for accessibility. Emirates will “arrange a wheelchair at every airport” on your itinerary and assist you through the airport and into the cabin as needed. If you’re traveling with your own wheelchair or scooter, they will help you with it (ensuring it’s checked and handled properly) – just inform them at booking or at least 48 hours before departure. On board, Emirates provides aisle wheelchairs on all flights, and their in-flight entertainment even offers accessibility features like audio descriptions and closed captions for flyers with visual or hearing impairments. Pre-boarding is available on request, and they’ll make arrangements for delivering your mobility aid to you as promptly as possible after landing. Emirates offer guidance on assessable travel via this link. 
   
   

4. easyJet: Among Europe’s budget airlines, easyJet stands out as relatively disability-friendly. Like all carriers, they offer free special assistance – you can request help from curb to plane, including getting through security and to your seat. EasyJet is praised as “the best of the budget airlines” for wheelchair users. That said, be aware of limitations: their short-haul aircraft do not carry onboard aisle wheelchairs (so if you cannot walk at all to the lavatory, in-flight assistance is limited). Their crews will do their best to help within safety rules, and they provide safety briefings in alternative formats (e.g. printed or Braille instructions) for visually or hearing-impaired passengers. When flying easyJet, make sure to arrange assistance in advance (during booking or via their helpline) and arrive early at the airport. They board passengers needing assistance before general boarding. We advise contacting the easyjet special assistance team before flying to discuss your requirements.
   
   

5. Ryanair: Another popular low-cost carrier, Ryanair offers similar assistance services as easyJet. They will provide staff to help you through the terminal, into your seat, and with deplaning – but you must notify them of your needs at least 48 hours ahead. (If you forget, they are still obligated to try to assist, but response may be slower.) Ryanair allows mobility equipment to be carried free and has procedures to handle electric wheelchairs (you’ll need to give them battery details in advance). Their support is basic but effective: for example, they can provide an airport wheelchair and push you to the boarding gate, and their teams are used to handling travelers with reduced mobility. As with easyJet, keep in mind that most Ryanair planes won’t have an aisle chair onboard, so bathroom access during flight could be an issue for those who cannot stand at all. Plan accordingly for short flights, and utilise airport facilities before boarding. Despite some past PR hiccups, thousands of passengers with disabilities successfully fly Ryanair each year with proper advance coordination. For more information, please see the Electric Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids on the Ryanair website. 
   
   

Tip: No matter which airline you choose, always reconfirm your special assistance request closer to the travel date (48 hours ahead is a good checkpoint). This double-check ensures the airline has your request in their system and will have the necessary staff and equipment ready for you. Also, arrive at the airport early on the day of travel to allow plenty of time for the assisted check-in and security process. With major European airlines, you can expect professional and courteous service – their goal is to get you safely and comfortably to your destination.

At the Airport: What to Expect

Stepping into a busy airport with a wheelchair or mobility scooter need not be stressful if you know the process. Here’s a step-by-step guide through the typical airport journey for a passenger with reduced mobility:

• Before Departure (Home to Airport): If you’re making your own way to the airport, many airports offer special parking or drop-off allowances for disabled travelers – check the airport website for details on blue badge parking or drop-off permits. Aim to get to the airport earlier than usual (at least 2-2.5 hours for short-haul, 3+ hours for long-haul), as going through security and boarding with assistance can take extra time. Upon arrival at the terminal, you can request wheelchair assistance immediately – often there are help points or staff at the entrance. If you’re using your own device, you can of course ride it in.
  

• Check-In: Proceed to your airline’s check-in or bag drop counter. (Airports usually also have a dedicated special assistance desk – if you’re unsure, ask any staff and they will direct you.) At check-in, staff will confirm the arrangements for your mobility device. In most cases, you can stay in your personal wheelchair/scooter until boarding. The airline will tag your device like checked baggage and give you instructions on where/when to leave it. This is a good time to remind them of any disassembly instructions or fragile parts on your equipment. For example, you might say, “This scooter can fold and the batteries are removed – here’s the manual in case baggage handlers need it”. If you need an airport wheelchair and assistant to take you through security, they will call for that service (or direct you to the assistance meeting point). Airlines and airports coordinate closely on these services, so once you’ve checked in and requested the help, you’ll be handed over to trained assistance staff.
  

• Security Screening: Going through airport security with a wheelchair or scooter involves a few differences. You will not have to get out of your wheelchair if you cannot walk – instead, officers will likely perform a manual pat-down and may swab your chair for explosives (a routine chemical test). Your carry-on items go through the X-ray as normal. Any removable parts of your scooter (like a removable battery pack) should be taken out and screened separately. Tip: Stack spare batteries together in a clear bag or case, and do not pack batteries in checked luggage,  lithium batteries must travel in the cabin for safety. Security agents may ask about the battery size; having documentation (or a label on the battery showing watt-hours) can smooth this process. Allow some extra time for these checks. The security personnel encounter mobility devices daily and will be professional and respectful while ensuring safety rules are met.
  

• Boarding the Aircraft: With security done, you’ll be assisted to the departure gate. If there’s time before boarding, you’re free to grab a snack or use toilet the assistance staff can either stay with you or come back at boarding time. When it’s time to board, passengers with reduced mobility usually get priority boarding, you’ll board before the crowds. This allows you to take your time and get comfortably seated. If you’ve been using an airport wheelchair, they’ll bring you as close to the plane door as possible (often via the jet bridge or a lift for smaller planes). If you rode your own scooter or electric wheelchair to the gate, this is where you’ll transfer off of it. Airlines typically have you switch to a narrow aisle wheelchair, a small, collapsible chair that fits down the airplane aisle. You transfer from your device to the aisle chair (with assistance if needed), and airline staff will then push you onboard to your seat. (If you can walk a few steps or stand, you might instead walk on with support from crew, whichever you prefer and is safest.) Your wheelchair/scooter will be taken to the aircraft hold at this point to be loaded as cargo. Ensure brakes are locked and power is off. It’s wise to remove any delicate or detachable parts before they take it – e.g. take your cushion, small attachments, or joystick controller (if easily removable) into the cabin with you to prevent loss or damage. Don’t worry about the paperwork or tags for your device; the staff will handle all that based on the info given at check-in.
  

• During the Flight: In flight, your biggest challenge might be moving around in the cabin. If you can ambulate short distances (e.g. to the lavatory), you may do so when safe, with or without a crew member’s arm for support. If you cannot walk at all, airlines like BA, Virgin, and others with larger aircraft will have a foldable onboard wheelchair available – you can request the crew to set it up when you need to use the toilet. Cabin crew are trained to assist wheelchair passengers to the restroom door, but note they are not allowed to lift or carry you, nor can they assist with inside-the-toilet personal care. If you think you’ll need more help than a crew can provide (e.g. help with clothing or transfers), it’s required to travel with a companion/carer who can assist you. On longer flights, make sure to periodically stretch and shift position if possible to avoid stiffness or pressure sores – bring a cushion if that helps comfort. Additionally, let the crew know if you have any specific needs; for example, if you need your medication from the overhead bin, or if you’d like them to periodically check on you. In general, airlines want to make your flight as pleasant as possible. Some airlines even stock a few adaptive items, like in-flight entertainment with captions or safety briefing in Braille, etc., so don’t hesitate to ask. Enjoy the flight and use it as a well-deserved rest before arrival!
  

• Arrival and Disembarking: Upon landing, it can take some time for your wheelchair or scooter to be brought to you. Stay seated until the other passengers have left the plane. Often, travelers with mobility impairments are taken off last so that staff can focus on assisting you without the crowd. An airport assistance agent will come with either your own wheelchair or an airport transit chair. Whenever possible, insist (politely) that your personal wheelchair be brought up to the aircraft door. In European airports this is common practice, your chair can be delivered to the door or jetway after everyone else leaves, so you can transfer and then be on your way. 

However, at some airports or in certain situations, your mobility device might be sent to the baggage hall instead. If that happens, the staff will use an airport wheelchair to take you through passport control and then pick up your device at baggage claim. (It’s not ideal, but sometimes necessary if jet bridge access isn’t possible.) Once you are reunited with your scooter/wheelchair, take a moment to inspect it for any damage. While most equipment emerges just fine, bumps can occur. If you notice something broken or missing, report it immediately to the airline’s baggage service desk in the arrivals area. We strongly suggest our travel bags for protecting your chair. Don’t leave the airport until you’ve filed a report for damage, just as you would for lost luggage. The airline is obligated to compensate you for repair costs (or replacement if they broke the device). (If you need any replacement parts sent out to when travelling, please feel free to get in touch with us and we will be happy to assist in posting to your location. You can also send us a video of any issues you have via get in touch via WhatsApp 07309 863302 so our team can assist quicker.) They may also provide a loaner or onward transport if your wheelchair is not usable. Pro tip: Take photos of your wheelchair/scooter before the flight (at check-in), so you have documentation of its condition in case you need to make a claim later.

• Ground Transportation and Beyond: After clearing customs, you’ll continue your journey just like any traveler. Many airports have accessible taxis or shuttle services, the assistance staff can help you connect with these. If you arranged ahead for an adaptive rental car or transfer, you should find the driver or car hire desk in the arrivals area. From here, your vacation truly begins! With your mobility aid by your side, you’re ready to explore. Hopefully you’ve also researched the destination’s accessibility (e.g. step-free routes, curb cuts, etc.), if not, now’s the time to ask questions or pick up accessibility maps, often available at tourist information centres. And remember, if you managed the flight, you can manage anything, so get out there and enjoy your holiday.
  
  

Protecting Your Wheelchair or Scooter in Transit

Air travel can be rough on checked baggage, and mobility equipment is no exception. Taking a few precautions will help ensure your wheelchair or scooter arrives intact and ready to roll. Here are some care tips for your mobility equipment when traveling:

• Use protective covers or cases: If you have a folding mobility scooter or Electric Wheelchair, consider packing it inside a sturdy case or cover for added protection. For example, as mentioned before, we offer a dedicated Electric Wheelchair Travel Bag to encase and pad a folded chair. Even a simple padded cover or bubble wrap on delicate parts can help. One creative method some users employ is placing a folded travel scooter inside a large suitcase for check-in. This essentially hides and cushions the device like any other luggage. (If you try this, be sure to inform the airline that one of your “bags” contains a mobility aid, so it’s handled as such.) The key is to shield your equipment from scratches, impact, and weather. Hard-shell cases or crates are ideal if you have a very expensive Electric Wheelchair but they add bulk. Soft covers are lightweight and better than nothing – just make sure any cover is well-secured (use straps or tape) so it doesn’t come off in transit.
  
  

A folding mobility scooter packed securely in a suitcase for air travel. Using a case or padded bag can protect your equipment from damage in transit.

• Remove or secure detachable parts: Anything that can pop off, will pop off in the cargo hold if not removed or tightened. Before handing over your device, remove small accessories like baskets, cup holders, armrests (if detachable), footrests, or cushions. Carry these in the cabin or pack them in your luggage. Fold in or tape down any protruding parts (e.g. foldable push handles, mirrors, etc.). If your wheelchair has a joystick controller, see if it can be detached or swung inward for protection – a damaged joystick is a common issue when electric wheelchairs are mishandled. You can also mark moving parts with instructions: for example, tag the free-wheel levers with a bright label saying “Pull to Neutral” so baggage crews know how to free-roll the chair without forcing anything. It might help to attach a simple one-page instruction sheet (laminated, if possible) to the chair, explaining how to engage freewheel, how to remove the battery, and the safe lifting points. This can prevent accidental damage by staff unfamiliar with your model. As an extra precaution, take along a basic toolkit (Allen keys, duct tape, etc.) in case you need to do any minor re-assembly or tightening after the flight.
  
  

• Battery handling: We touched on this earlier, but to reiterate – you must disconnect and carry on your lithium battery in most cases. When you prepare your scooter at the gate, remove the battery pack (or ask staff for help if it’s tricky). Cover the battery terminals with tape to prevent short circuits, and place the battery in a protective pouch or case. (Many mobility device manufacturers provide a fire-safe carrying bag for the battery – if yours did, use it.) Keep the battery with you or the cabin crew; they will stow it in the cabin overhead or a closet. Wheelchairs with non-removable batteries are usually fine to transport as is, but you should still turn off the power and ensure the terminals or connectors are insulated. Airlines are well aware of these rules; some will even have taped up your battery or confirmed its specs back at check-in. If your device has dry-cell or gel batteries (common in older Electric wheelchairs, those can often stay installed since they are spill-proof – but always inform the airline of the battery type. Mobility Extra’s electric wheelchairs ship with *“flight safe” lithium batteries, so if you bought a travel model, chances are you meet the requirements. Just carry the documentation that confirms it (battery certificate or at least the spec sheet showing watt-hours).
  
  

• Mind the weight and size: Check if your device’s weight exceeds any limits the airline uses for loading equipment. Most large airports have lifts and ramps that can handle heavy electric wheelchairs, but if your device is extremely heavy (over ~150 kg), inform the airline so they can ensure proper loading equipment is available. Similarly, very large mobility scooters might not fit through the cargo door of smaller planes. In Europe, this is usually only a concern on small regional or turboprop aircraft. As a rule, if your chair/scooter is within the size of a standard adult wheelchair when folded, it will fit. If it’s larger, provide exact dimensions to the airline in advance. They might need to put you on a larger aircraft or make special arrangements. Pro tip: If connecting through a small airport or flying a small plane for a short hop, ask if they have an alternative for your equipment (like trucking it separately) – this is rare but it has happened in cases where a wheelchair couldn’t go on a tiny plane. Most travelers won’t encounter this, but it’s good to be aware.
  
  

• Label your equipment: Attach a label with your name and contact information to your wheelchair or scooter. Use a sturdy luggage tag or even tape a card onto the frame. This helps avoid mix-ups and identifies the item as an assistive device (some travelers even write that on the label). You can also label key components (“Battery inside,” “Backrest removed and in cabin with passenger,” etc.). Adding “Fragile” stickers might or might not help (baggage handlers see that a lot), but a clear “Wheelchair – Handle with Care” sign could catch someone’s eye. The goal is to remind everyone that this isn’t just a suitcase – it’s a vital piece of mobility equipment.
  
  

• After the flight – post-care: Once you’ve retrieved your mobility aid after landing, give it a quick functionality check. Test the power, joystick, brakes, etc., before you leave the airport. If something is wrong (e.g., it won’t turn on, a part is visibly bent, a tire is flat), report it immediately as noted in the previous section. Airlines must compensate for damage, but they have procedures and time limits for claims – often you need to file the report on the spot or at least within 7 days in writing. It’s also a good idea to have travel insurance or equipment insurance (more on this below) so you can get swift repairs or a replacement if needed. If your device uses removable parts you took in carry-on, don’t forget to reattach them. Many a traveler has left a cushion or battery behind on the plane – so double-check you gathered everything. Finally, if you had to disassemble anything (like removing that backrest or headrest), put it back together in a safe area before heading out. Some airport assistance personnel can help you reassemble your kit if you ask.
  
  

By following these steps, you’ll greatly reduce the risk of damage to your wheelchair or scooter. Thousands of mobility devices fly every day in airline cargo holds – while there are horror stories of mishandling, the majority arrive just fine. Careful packing and clear instructions to the handlers will stack the odds in your favor. Your mobility equipment is your freedom; a little extra effort to safeguard it is well worth it for peace of mind on your journey.

Insurance Considerations for Traveling with Mobility Aids

Travel insurance is always a smart idea, but it’s especially crucial when you’re traveling with an expensive mobility aid or have health conditions. Here are the key insurance points to consider for your trip:

1. Covering your mobility equipment: Standard travel insurance policies often have low baggage compensation limits and may exclude costly items like power wheelchairs or scooters. To protect your device, look into specialised mobility travel insurance. These policies are designed for disabled traveler's and explicitly cover mobility aids for loss, theft, or damage in transit. For example, unlike regular travel insurance, a mobility-specific policy “covers your mobility scooter for damage during transport, theft abroad, and even rental scooter mishaps.”. Check the coverage limits – it should ideally cover the full value of your wheelchair/scooter (which could be several thousand pounds). Also check if it provides a temporary loaner or hire reimbursement, so you’re not stranded without a wheelchair if yours is damaged. When purchasing travel insurance, declare your mobility device and any medical conditions to ensure everything is covered properly. Some general travel insurers allow you to add extra coverage for mobility equipment at additional premium; others might require a specialist insurer.

2. Existing mobility insurance: If you already have an insurance policy for your wheelchair or scooter (many people insure their devices at home for theft/damage), see if it extends to travel abroad. Some UK mobility scooter insurance plans automatically cover short trips outside the UK – for instance, one provider covers travel to most countries outside North America as part of their policy. Verify the geographic limitations and duration (e.g. up to 30 days abroad, etc.). If your current insurer covers you overseas, get that in writing and carry a copy of the policy. If not, you might be able to pay a one-time upgrade for the trip, or else use a separate travel policy. The important thing is that you don’t rely solely on the airline’s liability. While airlines must compensate for lost or damaged mobility aids, by international law their liability is typically capped (often around £1,200–£1,500) unless you made a special declaration of higher value. Your Electric Wheelchair might be worth £5,000, so without insurance, you could be at a loss if it’s catastrophically damaged. Bottom line: have insurance that will cover the replacement cost of your device, whether through a travel policy, your home policy, or a specialised mobility policy.

3. Medical and trip insurance: Don’t forget the usual travel insurance aspects – coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, etc. Because you have a disability or health condition, make sure to choose a policy that covers pre-existing conditions (or specifically disability travel insurance). Many insurers offer “disability travel insurance” products tailored for people with medical conditions or mobility needs. These often include features like coverage for a companion (if they need to stay with you in hospital), coverage for medical equipment in baggage, and so on. Ensure any regular medications you take are covered if lost, and that medical treatment related to your condition abroad will be paid for. It may involve a slightly higher premium, but the peace of mind is worth it. Companies like Fish Insurance, Able2Travel, or GoodtoGo specialise in travel insurance for those with disabilities – they are worth checking out for quotes.

4. Liability coverage: If you plan to drive a mobility scooter at your destination (say, on public roads or in pedestrian areas), consider liability insurance. In some countries, mobility scooters are treated like pedestrians; in others, you might be required to have third-party liability coverage. Even if not required, it’s wise to have, in case your scooter accidentally causes injury or property damage. Many mobility scooter insurance plans include third-party liability as standard. Some travel insurances might include personal liability that could extend to mobility device use, but clarify this. You don’t want a scenario where an accidental bump in a crowded market results in a costly claim against you. Having liability cover (often £1 million or more) will protect you financially.

5. Documentation to carry: Bring proof of your insurance policies when you travel. Carry the emergency contact number for your travel insurer, and the policy number, in your wallet. It’s also useful to have a document listing the specifications and value of your mobility aid – e.g. a purchase receipt or a doctor’s note describing why you need it – in case you need to make a claim or get airline compensation. If your wheelchair is very valuable, having an official paper stating its replacement cost can expedite proper compensation beyond the normal limits (airlines in the EU/UK should cover the full value of mobility equipment in theory, but it sometimes requires negotiation). Additionally, if you use any medical devices or medications, carry a doctor’s letter or prescription for those. This can help with security (for things like oxygen canisters or injectors) and with refills if your medicine is lost.

In summary, don’t skimp on insurance when traveling with a wheelchair or scooter. The right coverage turns a potential nightmare (like equipment loss or a medical issue abroad) into a manageable inconvenience. With insurance, you can travel knowing that if something goes wrong, you’ll get the support and financial help you need to set it right – and that confidence is priceless.

Conclusion: Ready for Take-Off

Traveling abroad with a mobility aid might require extra planning, but the experiences you’ll gain are more than worth the effort. Whether you rely on a wheelchair every day or just need a scooter for the occasional long excursion, modern travel is more accessible than ever. Airlines across Europe have teams and policies in place to assist you – from priority boarding to in-flight support – and legal rights protect you throughout your journey. By choosing travel-friendly equipment (like lightweight folding scooters or wheelchairs with flight-safe batteries), prepping your device for the rigors of transit, and securing good insurance, you can virtually eliminate the major barriers to exploration.

Remember, Mobility Extra and other mobility specialists are there to help with the gear and advice you need. Whether it’s an ultra-light wheelchair that pops easily into a car boot and an airplane hold, a scooter with a remote folding mechanism you can whisk through airport terminals, or handy accessories like travel cases and spare batteries, there are many products designed to give you freedom beyond your doorstep. Don’t hesitate to reach out to such companies for recommendations on the best equipment for your travel style – for instance, you might find that a model like the MX-1 or MX-AIR Electric Wheelchair with its airline-friendly battery system is the perfect companion for your European tour.

Finally, embrace the journey with confidence. Yes, there will be forms to fill and coordinations to make, but millions of wheelchair users and scooter riders successfully travel internationally every year. You can be one of them. Arm yourself with information (hopefully this guide has helped!), take advantage of the support available, and soon you’ll be sipping coffee in Paris, cruising along the Mediterranean, or rolling through a historic cobblestone street on a grand adventure. Your mobility device is a tool of independence, far from holding you back, it can carry you to far-flung places. Here’s to accessible and extraordinary travels ahead. Bon voyage!