Introduction to Folding Mobility Scooters

The ZooMe Auto Flex weighs just 60lbs, making it a lightweight foldable scooter with a seat for adults, that is super easy to load into the trunk of your car. A FAA-approved battery, speedy recharge time of 3-5 hours and a distance range of 13 miles means this is great for general use almost anywhere.

Taking just 10 seconds to fold or unfold, the ShopRider Echo is a portable mobility scooter which prioritizes ease of use and convenience. With a range per charge of 8.7-10 miles, you won’t find yourself running out of power while you’re out at the shops.

A light weight scooter of just 49lbs paired with an FAA-approved battery means that you can easily take this portable mobility scooter on transport of all types, including planes, cruise ships and trains. A tight turning circle makes it easy to maneuver, while a remote control will automatically fold it up in a matter of seconds.

This Folding, Portable mobility scooter really does live up to its sports label, with the ability to reach up to 12mph and last for 35 miles on a single charge. If you opt for the additional Travel Battery, which is approved for airline use, it’s still got an impressive 18-mile distance range. To find more fast scooters like this one, read our Fastest Mobility Scooters Guide!

A truly exciting design, the Atto looks less like a portable mobility scooter and more just like a cool bit of kit. The innovative folding style provides two options: either split it down into a trolley mode, or divide it into two parts for its split mode. Flexible and contemporary, this scooter also features a USB port and holds enough charge to take you on a 12-mile ride.

You’ll be delighted with a distance range of 22 miles from a single charge. It has a slick design, which includes rose gold suspension and metallic paint to make it look attractive, but it’s the smart engineering which really makes this folding scooter stand out. The Smart Turn facility makes this scooter a cinch to handle, while a sports chassis and stiff springs make sure you have the smoothest ride of your life.

Sometimes all that is needed for optimal mobility is a simple, small, foldable electric scooter with a seat for adults to jet around town on. The Luggie Elite Scooter is designed to get you where you need to go without contending with an overly large, bulky scooter. Although it is a simple scooter, the Luggie Elite Scooter is certainly not average by any means.

When fully erect the Luggie Elite Scooter has a length or 39” and a width of 18”, so going through doorways and tight spaces is never a problem. Once you have completed your task and want to stow the Luggie Elite, it folds to a height of just 12” and due to its easy to use design, you need not remove the seat to fold it away. The Luggie Elite Scooter is designed for convenience, functionality, and versatility on all levels.

For such a small scooter design, you might think the Luggie Elite Portable Mobility Scooter would lack available power and performance, but with a max speed of 4mph and a full range of up to 22 miles, this machine simply keeps on going. As for the weight limit, the Luggie Elite Scooter seats a 320 lb, perfect for heavier people. Click here to learn more about Heavy Duty Mobility Scooters.

In addition to being a foldable and powerful model, the Luggie Elite Maintains a comfortable 2.5” ground clearance so it is ideal for sidewalks, small inclines, and standard terrain. The design of the Luggie Elite Scooter remains easy to use, strong, and functional on every outing.

If you are in the market for a budget friendly, yet intuitively designed portable mobility scooter, the EV Rider Transport Plus Foldable Mobility Scooter is idea. This scooter features a variety of components designed to make every ride comfortable, convenient, and easy to accomplish. While riding, you will feel stable with additional wheel stabilizers available and enjoy effortless turning capabilities with an adjustable, easy to use handle bar system.

The EV Rider Transport Plus Folding Mobility Scooter is easy to stow away and maintains a total weight of a slim 46 lbs. when seat and batteries are removed for storage. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, you can easily move through hallways and small passageways with a max speed of 4mph.

For safety purposes and to keep you moving even when it is dark out, the EV Rider Transport Plus Foldable Mobility Scooter comes standard with lights on both the front and rear of the scooter. The EV Rider Transport Plus Foldable Mobility Scooter is easily managed in cars, on buses or trains, and fits comfortably into small spaces while traveling.

Controlling the EV Rider Transport Plus Foldable Mobility Scooter remains effortless with a digital Wig Wag throttle control system. You can go as fast or as slow as you desires, so you will always feel comfortable and in control. 

Transporting a mobility scooter should not be a chore. But, with the EV Rider TranSport M Easy-Move Mobility Scooter EZ Fold, it does not have to be. This portable mobility scooter has been expertly designed to be both light and highly functional on a variety of different areas. Whether you are taking yourself to the market for a little shopping or running errands around town, you can maintain your optimal independence with the EV Rider TranSport M Easy-Move Mobility Scooter EZ Fold.

Not only will you enjoy the ease of storing this impressive machine, but the EV Rider TranSport M Easy-Move Mobility Scooter EZ Fold features a ultra-tight turning radius of merely 31”, so even in the smallest of spaces, you will enjoy enhanced mobility without compromise. The EV Rider TranSport M Easy-Move Mobility Scooter EZ Fold features an impressive ground clearance of 1.4” and that is ideal for most flat landscapes.

When folded up, the EV Rider TranSport M Easy-Move Mobility Scooter EZ Fold maintains very small dimensions of 28.7” X 17.3” X 16.5”, so stowing away in a small closet or the trunk of most vehicles is no problem at all. The EV Rider TranSport M Easy-Move Mobility Scooter EZ Fold is much more than just your average, everyday scooter. It has been cleverly designed with a variety of features and attributes that add to your independence and keep you moving forward.

Finding a comfortable, yet compact mobility scooter can sometimes be a challenge, but with the Merits Yoga, you get it all in one convenient package. The Merits Yoga comes in a variety of impressive colors so you can express your personality more freely than with other models. Additionally, this portable mobility scooter is the ideal solution for both indoor and outdoor mobility needs.

The Merits Yoga is designed to be among the best compact, foldable mobility scooters on the market for your everyday travel needs or even when you are traveling far. The Merits Yoga comes complete with convenient carrying case that is already TSA approved, so you do not need to worry about how you will transport your scooter when air travel is involved.

With the Merits Yoga, a clever folding design enables you to open and use the foldable scooter with a seat for adults with the touch of a button. The uncomplicated design is ideal for those not seeking a high end technology driven type of scooter. When simple functionality is what you seek the Merits Yoga delivers in beautiful style. Each piece locks together for a truly stable and functional design for all your travel needs. Click here to see the Best Merits Scooters!

Tight turns are no problem for the Merits Yoga with its 37.8” turning radius and a patented twin front wheel configuration, the scooter remains stable, yet versatile enough to be controlled in even the smallest of areas. An off board charging port enables you to quickly charge your scooter with any standard wall outlet.

Having a specialized folding mobility scooter is the key in maintaining your optimal independence and with the EV Rider Teqno, you can certainly go where you want to go with ease. The specialized design of the EV Rider Teqno enables the rider to maintain control and stability throughout the journey and going anywhere you want to be is no problem with this amazing, compact mobility scooter.

Stability is the key ingredient in effectively using any mobility scooter and the 4-wheel configuration of the EV Rider Teqno is ideal for anyone concerned about stability issues. The EV Rider Teqno is also, not merely designed for flat, even surfaces. It can easily glide up 3 degree inclines and maintains an optimal ground clearance of 2.5”, larger than comparable mobility scooters in the same class.

The T-Bar style tiller on the EV Rider Teqno enables you to maintain control at all times and offers the ability to adjust to where you feel most comfortable. Your feet will enjoy the EV Teqno also with a specialized grip and enhanced foot space for overall comfort.

Taking the EV Rider Teqno with you anywhere is easy as well. This machine folds to an impressive 20” with a length of 32” and a width of 24”, so it is able to be stowed away in a closet or even in the trunk of most vehicles. Stylish, convenient, affordable, and an impressive overall design is what you can expect with your EV Rider Teqno.

Are you the type of person that loves to be on the go, but do not like the standard look of certain, traditional type mobility scooters? The Drive ZooMe Flex Folding Scooter is the ideal solution for your mobility needs. This scooter is perfect for everyday use, but also can be folded away easily in the back of any vehicle when it is not needed.

The Drive ZooMe Flex Folding Scooter maintains a sleek, modern design that does not mimic some of the bulky, old style mobility scooters you may be used to seeing. Modern attributes such as ergonomic handle designs and a one motion folding feature give you the ability to remain on the go and looking great throughout your day.

Up hills are no problem for the Drive ZooMe Flex Folding Scooter. It can easily take on up hill grades of up to 6 degrees and its enhanced stability control will ensure your safety on any surface. 4 sturdy solid wheels support up to 275 lbs. and the tight 53” turning radius helps you move through even the tightest of spaces without getting stuck. For more info on All Terrain Scooters, read this!

The Drive ZooMe Flex Folding Scooter is designed to be flexible for everyone and the adjustable tiller enhances your ability to ride the scooter in supreme comfort. No matter your height or what mobility issues you may be facing, the Drive ZooMe Flex Folding Scooter will be there for you providing you with a stylish and ultimately stable way to move.

How much do folding mobility scooters cost?

The price of folding mobility scooters depends on the model you buy and the features that you’re looking for. If you’re on a tight budget it’s possible to purchase a mobility scooter very cheaply, especially if you keep an eye on sale prices, 

Even portable mobility scooters in the lower budget range will deliver a solid performance. A comfortable seat, decent distance range and stability are all that’s needed for a good mobility scooter. Of course, if you have the budget, it’s possible to find a whole host of other comfort features and designs that really amplify your riding experience. From sports chassis to higher speeds and smart steering functions, the higher up the price bracket you go, the more you will get for your money.

How quickly can I get mobility scooters for travel?

Whether you’re getting a folding mobility scooter for the first time or you’re upgrading to a new model, waiting for it to be delivered can be difficult.

The good news is that when you buy from Scooters ’N Chairs, you won’t need to wait long for delivery. You’ll find the exact delivery times listed next to the model that you want to buy. On average, though, you could have your folding mobility scooter within 4-6 business days for a standard delivery, or 6-9+ business days if you prefer a White Glove Delivery. At other stores, you may find that you have to wait longer for your delivery...this is just another good reason to come to Scooters ’N Chairs first!

Why purchase your folding mobility scooters from Scooters 'N Chairs?

Scooters ’N Chairs are the experts in dissembling and folding mobility scooters, as well as many other types of disability aids and accessories. We understand what you need from a portable mobility scooter and we can help you to find the right one to meet your needs. We’re not interested in just selling you a folding scooter, we want to make sure you find one that matches your requirements. That’s why we’re always available to provide help and expert advice.

Aside from our outstanding customer service, you’ll find that we offer a huge range of mobility scooters, not just foldable scooter with a seat for adults! Check out our guide on the Best Mobility Scooters!
We’re very competitive as we love to bring our customers value for money. With speedy delivery, credit options and free shipping on orders more than $99, we offer that little bit more than you’ll find elsewhere. Try us today and discover the difference for yourself!

What advantages do folding mobility scooters offer?

Easy Travel

The number one demand for such devices involves scenarios where there is a need to transport a mobility scooter over long distances.

In these cases, where you can't actually ride your scooter to your destination, it becomes necessary to bring a scooter along as a piece of baggage.

The trouble is that even small mobility scooters take up a large amount of space, something that is usually in short supply across most forms of transportation. A folding scooter takes up the minimum amount of space once folded and opens the possibility of bringing a portable mobility scooter for elderly people along on trips in ways never conceived before.

Scooters that disassemble don’t give you the same amount of convenience for travelling on public transportation, as you don’t always have the time to assemble and disassemble when getting on a bus, for instance.

When travelling with a car, disassembly scooters are very convenient, some patients even find them more convenient than folding scooters in some cases. You have all the time you need to break your scooter into its parts and those parts will fit in virtually any car trunk around.

Lightweight

Essentially practical devices for easy travel, it comes as no surprise that travel mobility scooters are the lightest of their class, however we need to define this well as travel scooters are lightweight in different ways.

When it comes to folding scooters, we’re talking about the weight of the entire unit combined, often batteries included. Folding scooters can often weigh 55 lbs or even less! For more on Lightweight Scooters, read this! 

You'll find the most state-of-the-art materials used in these scooters, that are very lightweight yet extremely strong. The design of the actual scooters are also advanced, with material put in clever ways and shapes to support loads using the minimal mass of metal possible.

Despite these features, many users still find 55 lbs too much to carry on their own. This is where disassembling scooters can outrank folding ones. Though these scooters can weigh a substantial amount when put together,this is irrelevant as scooters that disassemble don’t ever need to be lifted as one piece.

Instead, their heaviness is judged by the heaviest single piece once disassembled. Once you find a model with a heaviest piece you are comfortable lifting, it follows that you can carry every other piece of the scooter too, as they will all be lighter.

Lot's of portable mobility scooters heaviest pieces weighs under 45 pounds and you can even find units closer to 35 lbs! 35 lbs is in the lifting range of so many more disabled than people than 55 lbs so disassembling scooters are a critical part in the puzzle of travel mobility scooters.

The rear section (center) is usually the heaviest piece of travel disassembly scooters

Storage

Many of our customers purchase travel mobility scooters because they live in compact apartments or houses. This is very common with elderly people who live in sheltered accomodation, nursing home apartments and senior villages.

In these cases, senior residents must try their best to make space in their small living quarters and, if they only use the scooter for outdoors, a mobility scooter in the middle of their living is an unnecessary waste of space.

Some patients don't even use their scooter every day - they might only have their scooter for trips or when family visit.

In these cases, senior residents must try their best to make space in their small living quarters and, if they only use the mobility scooter for outdoors, a mobility scooter in the middle of their living is an unnecessary waste of space.

Consider people don't even use their mobility scooters every day - they might only have their scooter for trips or when family visit. These patients need to be able to store their scooter in an unused area of their home such as under a bed or between a closet and a wall.

A portable mobility scooter which folds into a neat little shape or disassembles works perfectly and enables the scooter to be totally put out of the way when not being used, freeing up living space for more important uses.

All you wanted to know about folding Mobility Scooters

What are folding Mobility Scooters?

Folding mobility scooters are a class of scooters designed for disabled people. Unlike many models which are rigid, these folding models can collapse into a compact shape when necessary. In this guide, we will only consider disability scooters that fold fully into one solid piece. Many other non-folding mobility scooters have parts that may fold such as the seatback (top right in image below) or tiller (top left in image below). These won't be considered proper folding scooters.

True folding mobility scooters will be defined as handicap scooters with not only a folding tiller and seatback, but also a seat that collapses right into the deck of the scooter, leaving no part sticking out in any significant way (figure 2).

The resulting folding scooter is a compact piece with little space within it and super easy to store and move around. Folding scooters will usually have scissor-like supports (figure 2) holding up the seat rather than a seat post (figure 3) or shroud holding the user up (figure 4). You might rarely come across a handicap scooter that folds where modern materials are used, eliminating the need for scissor supports (figure 5).

Figure: 1
Figure: 2
Figure: 3
Figure: 4
Figure: 5

What advantages do Folding Mobility Scooters offer?

As soon as Luggie released their first-of-a-kind folding scooter for handicapped people, it was immediately apparent that this was a device that would be a game changer to patients using mobility scooters.

Portable mobility scooters that come apart did and do exist, though these necesitate tasks that not all users are able to accomplish, due to limited dexterity and body flexibility. With the new folding units, gone was the need to rely on scooters that disassembled or worse, needed a vehicle lift or ramp. Folding Scooters were actually such a hit, that virtually every other mobility scooter manufacturer has followed FreeRider (Luggie's parent company) and now each have one or more mobility scooters that fold in their collection.

Batteries

The batteries of folding mobility scooters are also almost always lithium-ion - something not found ond standard scooters that run on SLA batteries which can add a lot of weight to a scooter.

This technology stores much more power per pound, allowing you to go far using batteries weighing under well under 10 lbs. Compare that to SLA batteries that can weigh 40 lbs each!

Venues

There may be certain places you wish to visit where you would want to get off your scooter for your visit, yet the premises are unable to store a mobility scooter. A good example is a small community chapel or cinema.

Many people only need their disability scooters to get across the distance to these places rather than walking. Once there, they would much rather sit in a normal pew or cinema seat that awkwardly sitting in their scooter.

A scooter that folds for easy storage anywhere allows users to put their mobility scooters aside at such venues and then look and feel the same as everyone else. Already unable to join society in many ways, being able to join in entertainment or other events with other people can be a vital part of disabled people's wellbeing and quality of life. In some instances, a cane may be needed to aid the user in getting around after the scooter has been folded and placed to the side.

Though not all mobility scooter accessories are suitable for lightweight folding models, there are strap-on cane holders available that would allow you to carry your cane at the back of your seat which you can slip out when you fold your scooter.

Superior Looks

Since folding mobility scooters are a fairly new invention, with new models regularly coming out to cope with an ever growing demand, these units invariably have newer, more chic look. Take a look below at a standard mobility scooter versus one that folds. Both are are great in quality, but the regular one is more traditional in it's design, that has stayed pretty much the same over the last couple of decades.

Modern, chic look folding Mobility Scooter Regular traditional looking Portable Mobility Scooter

Folding mobility scooters are also smaller and make less of a statement. Many patients requiring a mobility scooter do so reluctantly - it can be extremely difficult to accept the fact you're not able to walk unassisted as healthy people are able. It's also not fun looking different and being the subject of people's attention as you go around, say the supermarket on your scooter.

Folding scooters don't look conspicuous and don't make their rider look so "handicapped". They understate and downplay their presence with very minimalistic bodies, and non traditional, sleek design.

Which disadvantages and limitations of folding mobility scooters should I be aware of?

Every good thing comes at a price. They say there's no such thing as a free lunch and this is true for folding mobility scooters. Along with very specific advantages that no other type of scooter offers, comes a range of drawbacks that as a flip side. This does not mean folding mobility scooters are bad or poorly designed. It just means you have to choose which features are the most important to you and which ones are negotiable. Let's dive right in.

Weight Capacity

Constructed to be lightweight and easy to move or lift, folding mobility scooters do not support the same weight capacities as do regular scooters.

Whereas other even portable scooters start with weight capacities of 300 lbs and you can find mobility scooters with weight capacities reaching 500 lbs or more, folding mobility scooters can start as low as 230 lbs and aren't easy to find folding models that can support above 300 lbs.

Ruggedness & Performance

Similar to weight capacity, folding mobility scooters often have extremely low ground clearances, almost never have suspension, wheels that wear out quickly on gravel trails and aren’t designed to absorb shocks the whole time. Here are some Mobility Scooters with Higher Ground Clearance! 

They will typically have low top speeds of around 5 mph and the dashboard will often only feature the bare minimum - just battery levels for instance. The lightweight nature of the devices also automatically means they will be less stable relative to regular mobility scooters. Also bear in mind that most folding mobility scooters are 3 wheelers or have their front two wheels right next to each other, effectively combining to act as one. This means less stability than 4-wheelers overall.

Seats & Comfort

It’s challenging to design a compact folding scooter with a deluxe seat. Normal scooter seats can stretch out to either side of the scooter deck which would be annoying and stick out when the scooter would be folded. To ensure a slim and neat folded scooter, seats here are made with lower seat backs, are narrower overall and provide less padding. For a list of the most comfortable mobility scooters, check this out!

This is a generalization - you can also find folding models with seats that match regular mobility scooter standards if you know where to look.

Look out to see if armrest are included with any folding scooter you intend to buy - many don’t as this helps the folded shape be more practical, however, for some people armrests are a must and as mentioned above, even with the best efforts on the parts of the manufacturers, even the lightest folding scooters weigh around 55-60 lbs which is too much for some people.

Weight of Unit

Since the batteries in these units are lightweight in case, taking them out before you lift your scooter doesn’t help much.

One solution to getting a folding scooter into your car trunk is to stand it on its two rear wheels , lay the two front wheels against the rear bumper, and then roll the scooter up and in. A rug hanging out from the trunk over the bumper can minimize risk of damage to the car when performing this.

Battery Life

What kind of battery range per charge can you expect from a folding mobility scooter? Certainly less than your typical mobility scooters. This is in an attempt to keep the overall weight low with less battery mass, but also Lithium-Ion technology that weighs less but costs more.

With the cost of lithium batteries being several times that of sealed lead acid batteries, manufacturers are eager to keep the battery size low and avoid adding substantial cost to the scooter. To give you an idea, most standard scooters give you a battery pack with at least 30 Ah of charge. Folding mobility scooters might only give you less than 10 Ah - these aren’t the right devices if you want to take long trips on your scooter.

Accessories

Most regular mobility scooters come with a rear universal hitch that measures 1” x 1”. The hitch allows users to attach any accessory attachment that has a matching receiver, including a rear basket or equipment holder.

Folding mobility scooters often do not come with this accessory hitch due to the temporary way they are used and because they wouldn’t be able to support the weights placed on them anyhow. Pay attention to this if having a rear accessory is a deal breaker to you

Folding Procedure

You might be wondering how difficult it is to actually fold and unfold a portable mobility scooter. The truth is this is made very easy for the user, though some models go a step further.

Manual folding scooters

These fold by pulling or pushing some form of lever that unlocks the scooter and allows you to either press the scooter into itself or pull it out of its folded state.

Yellow push bar for manual folding of mobility scooters

Automatically folding mobility scooters

There to make your life even easier, these scooters fold or unfold with the click of the button on a provided keyfob or on the scooter itself. You might just have to fold the seat back or armrests; all the rest is done electrically.

Auto fold scooters always have a manual backup system in case you lose the fob or it runs out of battery. In this case you would treat the scooter exactly like a manual one.

Your Portable Mobility Scooter in its Folded State

What does a folded handicap scooter look like? How easy is it to lug around? When folded, most units look like and behave like a small suitcase. An average folded scooter will measure around 17” x 17” x 20”.

Most models fold in a way that allows you to you use the scooter’s wheel as “suitcase” wheels so you can roll your scooter around without much effort.

Should I buy a folding mobility scooter?

According to above you should buy a folding mobility scooter if:
You need to transport your scooter regularly
You can carry around 55 lbs or can have someone to help you with this
Disassembling a scooter is too demanding for you
You don’t need to ride your scooter for many miles before charging
You aren’t planning on going on much gravel or uneven terrain
Extra comfort in your scooter is top a top priority

All you wanted to know about travel mobility scooters that disassemble

WDisassembling scooters are built to come apart and be put together with ease and involving no tools. Unlike initial assembly which is intended to be permanent, these pieces are design to click in and out of each other like lego and withstand constant pulling apart and putting together.

In a sense, disassembling scooters can be considered “standard” scooters. It's rare to find a non recreational, non folding mobility scooter that doesn’t disassemble and these make up probably the largest chunk of mobility scooters.

Think of it, if you were designing a non heavy-duty, non off-road standard scooter, why not add the advantage of easy disassembly?

In a sense, disassembling scooters can be considered “standard” scooters. It's rare to find a non recreational, non folding mobility scooter that doesn’t disassemble and these make up probably the largest chunk of mobility scooters.

Think of it, if you were designing a non heavy-duty, non off-road standard scooter, why not add the advantage of easy disassembly?

The pieces most such scooters break down into are:
- Battery case (one or two cases)
- Deck with front wheels & tiller
- Rear wheels with motor
- Front basket

What advantages do travel mobility scooters that disassemble offer?

Having a portable mobility scooter with the ability to break down into smaller pieces gives you liberty and convenience you could never get with a “one piece” solid scooter, and even couldn’t get with a flooding scooter.
Here are a few of them to consider: Can I get a free travel mobility scooter under Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance?

If you need a travel mobility scooter, it would seem only reasonable that you’d be able to get one free from Medicare, Medicaid or other scheme. Unfortunately, it’s virtually impossible to get one of these health schemes to pay for your scooter. It’s not technically impossible but there are very strict criteria that need to be fulfilled. Only the most severely restricted individuals will qualify. In a nutshell, to get a free scooter from Medicare you must:

Have mobility problems that mean you can’t carry out the normal activities of daily living, such as bathing, using the bathroom, dressing even if you use a walking frame or cane Have a health condition that means you have significant difficulty in moving around your home or getting up out of chair

You can use the scooter safely by yourself or you have a permanent companion who can Your home is large enough to accommodate a scooter Your physician and your scooter supplier are both registered with Medicare

You must meet all of the conditions for Medicare to buy your scooter - you can read the rules about scooters here in full.

If you think you tick all the boxes, you’ll also need your physician to agree with you. The word of you or family members won’t be enough. Your physician will need to be able to explain in detail why you need a scooter and in what ways you meet the qualifying conditions.

The Medicaid scheme is more or less the same as Medicare. Although it varies state by state, you’ll normally need to have the same level of mobility to qualify. Of course, all of this refers to using a scooter in your home. What about traveling? If you’re hoping to get a medical care plan to pay for a scooter that you need just for getting out of your house, there’s no good news. None of the schemes will pay for a mobility just for travel purposes. We know, it sucks

Can I take folding mobility scooters on a plane?

If you enjoy traveling, you may be wondering whether you can take you folding mobility scooter with you on the plane. The good news is that mobility scooters are treated in a very similar way to wheelchairs, and accepted as a vital piece of equipment for travelers. Whichever airline you fly with, you should be able to take your mobility scooter with you. This is great news if you want to travel and see other places! (If you’re in need of some inspiration, check out this great blog with suggestions of the top locations to visit with a mobility scooter).

Although you have the right to take your scooter, you will need to let the airline know at least 48 hours before you are due to fly. Some airlines are more restrictive than others, so it’s a good idea to give the airline even more notice if you can. You won’t be able to take the scooter into the cabin; the airline will store it in the hold for transport. But don’t panic as you’ll normally be able to ride on your scooter right up to the gate and the airline will provide a wheelchair to get you comfortably into your seat,

Each airline has a different procedure so you will find it helpful to check what to expect before you arrive at check-in. You will find airlines sympathetic to your need to use a mobility scooter. All are legally obliged to have proper procedures in place to support travelers with mobility difficulties. This means that they can’t refuse to consider your needs.

Even though an airline must accommodate your request to take a mobility scooter, it has to be a model which is suitable for transport. This is why you’ll need a lightweight folding mobility scooter for travel, rather than the larger and heavier models which don’t dissemble. We know there’s a lot of scooters out there and it’s hard to know what to look for. To make it easy, you can see our recommendations above for the scooters which we think are the best to travel with.

Some of the major airlines have information on their websites that will help you decide if your folding mobility scooter is suitable for travel. For example:

Southwest Airlines asks for all removable parts of the scooter (cushion, arm rests etc) to be taken off and stowed in the overhead lockers in the cabin. The smaller cargo door measures 33 x 48 inches so you will need to ensure the folded dimensions of your scooter are smaller than this.

How much does it cost to take mobility scooters on a plane?

So, you know now that you can travel with your scooter but you’re probably wondering how much it’s going to cost, right? We’ve got some really good news for you.

It won’t cost you a thing.

The FAA rules don't permit extra baggage costs for bringing along a medical device. The FDA classify mobility scooters (and wheelchairs) as medical equipment so you should not be charged for transporting your scooter, no matter which airline you fly with.

You’ll also benefit from a number of laws that help you to travel around.
The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) protects you from discrimination in the airport as it states that all public places must be accessible to a disabled person. However, it does not regulate your rights while in the air.

The Air Carrier Access Act protects the rights of disabled travelers and sets out the provisions that airlines must make. You can read these in full here. Therefore, to prevent breaching discrimination laws, airlines must be able to accommodate your need to travel with a mobility scooter. What does all of this mean for you in practice? It means that not only can you take your folding mobility scooter with you for free, the airlines must also ensure that they properly consider your needs.

Which folding mobility scooters are air travel/FAA approved?

You may have heard that it’s not possible to fly with a mobility scooter because of the battery. Don’t worry, this isn’t actually the case. Many people fly every day with their mobility scooters and batteries.

However, you do need to take care to make sure your batteries are the type approved by the FAA. Batteries can be categorized into two groups: lead acid batteries (figure 1) and lithium batteries (figure 2). Both types can be used to power travel mobility scooters.

Lead acid batteries (figure 1) Lithium battery (figure 2)

Lead acid can be either a spillable or non-spillable battery. You can see what a non-spillable battery looks like below.

All mobility scooters come with non-spillable batteries. You can tell the battery is non-spillable as there’s no cap on the top which can be removed to add more water. A flat and sealed surface confirms the battery is non-spillable.
Non-spillable lead-acid batteries are far less hazardous than spillable lead-acid batteries and this makes them suitable for flying. Non-spillable lead-acid batteries meet with the FAA guidelines and can be taken on board the plane.
(Spillable batteries can be taken on board providing they meet strict criteria but you won’t need to worry about these rules for your mobility scooter. You’ve already got enough to think about!) Lithium batteries are a little bit more complicated, but it’s still possible to fly with many lithium batteries.
There is a risk of lithium batteries catching fire if they overheat, get damaged or if there is a short circuit in the battery terminal. You can read more about what the FAA says about the risks of flying with lithium batteries here.
There is a limit on the types of lithium batteries that you can take onboard. The FAA only allows batteries which are no larger than 300 watt hours (or two batteries of no more than 160 watt hours each).

Lithium batteries must be removed from your scooter before it’s loaded onto the plane. In addition, the battery circuits must be protected from short circuiting. This helps to reduce the risk of a fire. This may sound like it’s a lot of effort but it’s easier than it sounds. A bit of tape over the battery circuits is often all that’s needed to protect them from friction and damage. You will need to place any spare lithium batteries in a case and transport them in your carry-on bag. Lithium batteries should not be packed in your checked-in suitcase, just because of the small risk of fire.

You should also make sure the airline are aware that you have lithium batteries in your bag. This information has to be passed onto the pilot. This may sound like a huge fuss for batteries that you use every day in your mobility scooter! When transported properly, the risk of a fire breaking out is very small but if it’s not caught in time, a fire from a single lithium battery could bring down a whole plane. This is why it’s important to take the FAA guidelines seriously. It’s probably worth saying once again: many people fly with their scooters and batteries safely every day so as long as you follow the rules, there’s no cause for concern.

Travelling with folding mobility scooters

One of the biggest advantages to folding mobility scooters is that you can use them on various types of transport because they don’t take up much space. Folding mobility scooters are deliberately designed to collapse down and be very compact. This enables you to take them on all types of private and public transport.

Understanding the difference between folding and dissembling scooters is key. Both can be transported but folding scooters are a bit easier.

If your mobility is particularly restricted or you’re traveling alone, a folding scooter is preferable. This is because they just fold up and down, often by just pushing a button. There are automatic folding scooters available too which can be operated via the remote control for real ease.

By contrast, although dissembling scooters are often used for travel, they’re not quite as straightforward. This is because they need to be broken down into separate pieces rather than just folded. These pieces are usually very easy to put back together and you won’t need any tools. However, for sheer convenience and speed of use, folding mobility scooters have the edge.

It’s perfectly possible to travel with a dissembling mobility scooter but if you are expecting to do so very frequently, a folding scooter might save you time and effort.

Getting foldable mobility scooters into a car

Although you might plan to just get on your scooter and head off straight from home, there might be occasions when you want to go further afield. One of the benefits of having a folding mobility scooter is that you can just load it up into your car and take off.

The trunk is the best place for your scooter so it doesn’t slide around or get damaged. The compact dimensions of folding models mean that you can fit them into the vast majority of regular cars. Of course, you can opt for a dissembling scooter instead. These take a little longer to break down and put back together, but they can be more flexible if you’re struggling for space.When you’re choosing your mobility scooter, the weight is something to bear in mind. While you’re want a scooter than feels firm enough to be stable, you still need to be able to lift it into the trunk. Some people may need assistance with this and even the lighter weight scooters might be too heavy, depending on the style of your trunk. If you’ve got a pick-up or a 4x4 with a low tail you might find it easier than a traditional trunk where you’ll have to lift the scooter up and over.

If you are finding it hard work to lift the folding scooter into your trunk, you could opt for a ramp instead. This allows you to simply push your scooter into the trunk. The ramp itself folds down for easy transport.

Other options include hoists or power lifters but these can cost several hundred dollars to purchase.

How to maintain and repair your travel handicap scooter

Having a folding mobility scooter means that nowhere is out of reach. Whether you want to hop on a plane and visit other countries or take your dog for a walk at the park, lack of mobility won’t stop you. Once you’re used to enjoying your freedom, you won’t want to give it up so it’s important to keep your scooter in tip-top condition. To do this, you’ll need to carry out some basic maintenance from time to time. Don’t worry, you won’t need to do anything complicated! Light maintenance on your mobility scooter is very simple and straightforward.

Storage for your Mobility Scooters

When you’re not out and about exploring the world, you’ll need a clean, dry and sheltered place to store your scooter. Folding mobility scooters are more compact so you might be able to store them in the home but if not, a garage is ideal too.The storage space for your scooter needs to be protected from the rain and preferably close to a mains electricity supply so you can recharge it. If you need to store your scooter outside, you’ll need a high-quality rain cover to prevent it rusting and corroding.

Batteries for your Mobility Scooters

Even with regular use, the battery on your mobility scooter should last a decent amount of time; typically around 2-3 years. To get the maximum lifespan out of your battery, you’ll need to take care of it. This includes:

- Charging your scooter if the battery is at less than 80%
- If you’re an infrequent user, charge your battery 1-2 times per month to stop it going flat
- Charge overnight to top up battery levels
- Keep the battery clean by wiping with a damp cloth
- If the battery gets wet, wipe it down and make sure it’s fully dry before using

Tires for your Mobility Scooters

There are usually four different types of tires on a scooter:

- Pneumatic:

These are inflated with air and can get punctures so will need to be checked regularly. You may need to put more air in them occasionally. Although they require a bit more TLC, pneumatic tires can provide a much smoother ride

- Solid Tires:

As these aren’t filled with air, they can’t be punctured and don’t need to be inflated. However, on the flip side, they are harder and provide a less comfortable ride.

- Filled Tires:

A combination of pneumatic and solid, filled tires try to offer the best of both worlds. Made from an open cell rubber material, they won’t puncture and give a better ride quality than solid tires.

- Deep tread Tires:

You can purchase these with varying levels of tread. The greater tread depth provides more grip and traction which is useful for slopes or other tricky surfaces. Tires will ultimately suffer from routine wear and tear so you’ll need them to be checked, ideally as part of an annual service. If you have pneumatic tires, keep an eye on the air pressure and inflate them as needed.

Brakes for your Foldable Mobility Scooters

Many scooters have a system which automatically applies the brakes as soon as you release the power. Before setting out on a journey, do a quick check to make sure the brakes are working as you’d expect. To keep them in prime condition, book an annual service where they can be professionally checked and repaired, if needed.

General Cleaning of Foldable Mobility Scooters

A mobility scooter isn’t difficult to keep clean and you won’t need to spend hours scrubbing it down every week. After use, a quick wipe over with a damp cloth will keep the frame in the best possible condition by getting rid of dust and dirt which could cause rust and corrosion. When you’re wiping your scooter down, pay careful attention to the area around the battery terminals plus the underside of the scooter - it’s easy to forget about down there! An occasional power-wash can be a worthwhile effort to really blast away any stubborn grime.

Servicing of Foldable Mobility Scooters

The best way to get repairs carried out and to check for safety is to organise an annual service. All the key components in your scooter will be checked and you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing that you’re safe to carry on riding.

Is my Folding Mobility Scooter Under Warranty?

We know that a mobility scooter is a big investment so a warranty can provide real peace of mind. Knowing that your equipment is covered in case it breaks down can be very reassuring. The warranty you receive will depend on the make and model of the mobility scooter that you buy. Some are more extensive than others so check carefully to make sure you understand the terms. It’s common for the warranty to be broken down into separate parts, usually the battery, frame and motor/electrical parts are covered by different warranties. These may be a lifetime warranty, more common for the frame, or a limited warranty which is only for a specified time.

Mobility scooter warranty showing split policy for batteries, frame, electronics Warranties usually cover defective workmanship or defective parts, not normal wear and tear, or damage caused by mistreatment. In some cases the warranty will cover the labor required for the repair of any new parts, but not always. This is why it’s essential to check the small print.

EV Rider warranty policy Aside from the main components which have a long-term warranty, you may also be covered by a warranty which covers the condition of certain parts when they’re new. When you open the box, parts such as the tires, upholstery and armrests should be perfect. Your user manual should have a full list of the parts covered. It’s important to check your scooter over thoroughly before you start using it as you won’t be able to claim for these parts later.

Why buy your electric wheelchair with Folding Mobility Scooters at Scooters 'N Chairs?

Here at Scooter 'N Chairs, we aren't a mindless, soulless company, we care about each customer and each purchase.

We are here to assist you with the most personalized, patient and friendly team on the market, who find no question too trivial and will personally research any questions or queries you might have, until you are totally comfortable you have found the perfect Folding Mobility Scooters to purchase. For any questions about our top-of-the-line elevating seat electric wheelchairs, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly customer service team. We are available by phone, livechat, email - these details can be found on our contact us page linked above.