So, you’ve scored an awesome trip! Bags are packed, itinerary’s set, but then – your trusty wheelchair stares back. How do you take your sidekick on this adventure without it turning into a hassle? Figuring out how to fold a wheelchair can feel like a mystery, but fear not! With a little know-how, you can conquer this and hit the road (or sky!) with ease
Is your wheelchair designed for travel?
Not all wheelchairs are up for world domination (although some totally could be!). But fear not, many manual chairs fold right up, making them perfect for tossing in your car, train, or even a plane. Here’s the lowdown on some popular folding chairs:
- Standard folding wheelchairs: These are all-rounders, offering affordability and portability. They fold neatly in half at the frame.
- Ultra-lightweight folding wheelchairs: Frequent flyers, rejoice! These prioritise weight for smooth travels. Think of removable parts and fancy folding mechanisms.
- Transit wheelchairs: Designed for conquering tight spaces and short trips, these fold-up super compact for ultimate convenience.
If your current chair isn’t exactly a travel pro, consider investing in a lightweight folding model built for adventures.
Preparing your wheelchair to fold
Before you get all twisty-turny with your chair, a quick safety check is key. Here’s what to do:
- Pump up the tyres: Make sure your tyres are inflated to the recommended pressure for a smooth ride and easy manoeuvring.
- Brake check: Are the brakes engaged and working properly? Loose brakes can mean a rogue wheelchair rolling around during transport – not ideal.
- Loose parts patrol: Give your chair a quick once-over to make sure no parts are loose or rattling. This will prevent potential damage on your travels.
Depending on your wheelchair model, you might need some tools for folding, like levers, hex keys, or quick-release buttons. Having them handy will make the folding process a breeze. Remember, even well-maintained wheelchairs can present challenges when travelling.
How to fold your specific wheelchair
Folding mechanisms differ between chairs, so if you have the user manual, that’s your best friend. But hey, most folding chairs follow a similar routine:
- Find the folding levers: These are usually levers or buttons strategically placed on the frame.
- Work the levers: Pull or press the levers according to your user manual. There might be a specific sequence to follow, so pay attention.
- Fold the frame: As you release the levers, the frame will collapse, usually folding in half.
- Lock it up (optional): Some chairs have a mechanism to keep the folded frame secure. Use it if you’ve got it.
Remember: If anything feels unclear, consult your user manual or reach out to the wheelchair manufacturer for help.
How do you fold a wheelchair for different travel scenarios?
The way you fold your chair might differ slightly depending on your chosen mode of transport:
- Car: Just fold it up and pop it in the boot. Measure the boot space beforehand to make sure it fits comfortably.
- Plane: Airlines typically require wheelchairs to be checked in as baggage. To assist passengers with wheelchairs and mobility aids, folding them as compactly as possible is key. Some airlines might have size limitations, so check their guidelines before you fly.
- Train: Similar to planes, folded wheelchairs are usually checked in as baggage on trains. Folding it compactly makes things easier for everyone.
How to pack and secure your folded wheelchair?
Once folded, protect your precious chair with a padded travel bag. This will shield it from bumps and scratches during travel.
For extra security, consider using straps or bungee cords to secure the folded wheelchair in your car boot or when checking it in for air travel.
What are additional tips for smooth travel with a wheelchair?
Here are some extra tips for a smooth sailing travel experience:
- Look for flights or trains that are easy to get on and off. Stuff like ramps and wide doors are a big help!
- Consider consulting a healthcare professional or mobility specialist (especially if you’re travelling with an elderly person) for guidance on choosing a wheelchair that best suits your needs and travel plans.
- Give the airline/train a heads-up that you’ll be rolling up with your wheels. This way, they can be ready to help you board and disembark like a champ.
- Toss a screwdriver and a spare tyre pump in your bag, just in case your chair needs a little TLC on the road.
- Pack your wheelchair cushion separately to keep it safe from any travel bumps.
Conclusion
Folding that wheelchair might feel like a total mystery at first. No worries though, these tips will have you mastering it in no time! Now get out there, explore awesome new places, and make memories that will blow your mind (and your Instagram feed) with your best wheelchair buddy by your side!
Calling all wheelchair adventurers: JB Medical to the rescue!
Conquering the world on wheels is pretty darn awesome, but finding the perfect travel wheelchair for your adventures can feel like a mission. That’s where JB Medical swoops in to save the day (or rather, your travel plans).
We stock a ton of cool, foldable wheelchairs that were built for adventuring. Newbie or pro, we’ve got the perfect wheels to fit your style and make your trip a breeze.
Here’s why JB Medical should be your one-stop shop for your travel wheelchair:
- Wheelchairs for every wanderer: From lightweight champions to ultra-compact titans, we have a variety of folding wheelchairs to suit your travel style and budget.
- Expert advice (we speak your language!): Our friendly staff are wheelchair experts. They’ll chat with you, understand your travel needs, and recommend the perfect chair for you. No jargon, just straight-up, helpful advice.
- Seamless transaction from tips to thrills: Just browsed this guide and now itching to hit the road? Perfect! We can help you find the ideal wheelchair based on the tips you just learned.
So, what are you waiting for? Contact JB Medical today! We’ll help you choose the perfect travel companion, so you can fold away those worries and focus on creating epic travel stories!