Any wheelchair user knows that traveling with a chair can be pretty challenging. Buildings, sidewalks, and vehicles are all designed without attention to the needs of disabled people. When you or a disabled friend need to stash your wheelchair in order to ride in a car or use transportation that doesn't offer special space for the disabled, things can get tricky. A folding travel wheelchair can be a big help, but finding one that works well, isn't too expensive, and is comfortable, can be almost as hard.
Folding companion wheelchairs are generally inexpensive and lightweight, but can feel unstable to sit in. If it's possible to try out a chair before buying, this is the best option. That way, you or your loved one will be able to discover if the chair is comfortable, and whether or not it actually folds as conveniently as you'd like. For those who are going to be flying with their chairs, lightweight travel wheelchairs under nineteen pounds are available.
Remember that if you're choosing a travel wheelchair, it should be rugged enough for the use that it will be put to. So, if you're vacationing in an area without reliably smooth sidewalks or accessibility, you may require a chair that will put up with more abuse than if you are going to a disability-friendly city. Since durability and weight are often factors don't go together, this can make choosing a travel chair difficult. Remember to take into account hallway width and available turning space if you're going to be using a wheelchair you're not familiar with. Narrow spaces can provide an unexpected challenge.
If a lightweight folding wheelchair won't meet your needs, but you still need to travel, consider renting a chair. Depending on the location you'll be heading to, manual wheelchairs, electric models, and even scooters are available on a short term basis. This option is a good one if you're going on a cruise, headed to a convention, or on vacation to a place where you'll need a wheelchair but can't bring your own.
However, for many people with disabilities, lightweight travel wheelchairs provide an acceptable solution to car or taxi travel. Once you've found the right travel chair for your needs, it's almost indispensable. Whether it's for daily use, on vacation, or a trip to a convention or meeting, a lightweight travel wheelchair can improve mobility significantly.
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