A Beginner's Guide to Folding Travel Mobility Scooters: Everything You Need to Know
Folding travel mobility scooters have revolutionised the game for people with limited mobility. Although they are fantastic tools, there is a lot to know about them and all the information can be overwhelming.
Whether you are new to folding mobility scooters, or if you just want to read up on the basics of them, this guide will educate you on everything you need to know.
Key terminology- here are some key terms you will need to know:
- Folding Travel Mobility Scooter: This is a mobility scooter designed to be folded and compacted. They are made for easy transportation and storage. See this article on the different types of folding mobility scooters here
- Portable: this refers to the mobility scooter's ability to be carried and moved around. It usually means the scooter can be compacted to a smaller size making it easier for transporting.
- Weight Capacity: this is the maximum weight that the scooter can carry. Make sure that you are below the weight capacity when purchasing a folding mobility scooter.
- Battery Range: The distance a scooter can travel on a single battery charge. This specification varies from model to model and is crucial for planning longer journeys.
How Folding Travel Mobility Scooters Work:
Often if you are wondering how a mobility scooter works then the best place to find out is YouTube. There are endless videos on different mobility scooters and how they work specifically - watch them here
Some key components that contribute to the working of a mobility scooter are:
- Frame and Chassis: these provide structural support, ensuring stability and durability.
- Motor: electrical motors power the travel mobility scooter. The drive system converts the motor's power into forward or backward movement.
- Controls: many scooters will have an easy-to-use control panel that allows the user to control the speed, accelerate, and break as well as have features like a light and horn. See this in-depth article on the different types of mobility scooter controls
- Battery: typically folding mobility scooters are powered by rechargeable batteries which are needed to give the motor and other electrical features enough power to run.
- Folding Mechanism: the key feature of the folding mobility scooter is their ability to be collapsed or disassembled to make them more compact and convenient to travel with. Generally, it will involve either releasing a latch or lever to collapse the scooter into a more compact size.
Tips for First-Time Users:
- Consult with Professionals: before you buy a mobility scooter it is suggested to consult with a healthcare professional who can advise you on the best model for your needs.
- Practice: familiarise yourself with the scooter. Make sure you understand how to use it properly by either visiting a showroom or reading the guide on use. Spend time getting used to the controls, speed, and breaks in a safe and open space.
- Learn Maintenance Guidelines: it's important to understand the maintenance and safety guidelines of the scooter to keep it in the best condition possible. Read up on battery charging, tire inflation, safe cleaning practices, and routine inspections. See our article on maintaining your mobility scooter
- Planning Ahead: when planning journeys with your folding mobility scooter, consider its battery range and the terrain it can handle before your trip.
- Accessibility and Transport: Although travel mobility scooters are designed for convenient transport, it's essential to ensure they meet the requirements of public transportation, airlines, and so on. Read up on the regulations and guidelines beforehand. See our information page on travelling abroad with a mobility scooter here
- Accessories: there are many helpful accessories you can purchase that will enhance your mobility scooters, such as baskets, cup holders, or specialised cushions, to enhance your comfort and convenience. We have another blog on the Top 5 Must-Have Accessories for your Mobility Scooter which you can find by clicking here. Or visit our accessories page online to see our range of bags, covers, batteries and more here
The Mobility Scooter Rear Bag from Betty and Bertie has been specifically designed as a secure and reliable weather proof carry solution for our Lupin & Ren Mobility Scooter. - See here
There's plenty more that you may want to know, we post lots of other blogs on a variety of different topics surrounding mobility scooters which you can find by clicking here.