We are taking my dad's transport portable wheelchair . He is able to walk but not long distances. This wheelchair folds . Planning on checking it . I have a large bag for it. Dad thinks we should leave the wheels exposed. I think the whole thing goes in bag.
Has anyone traveled with this type and what did you do? Dad will also be taking a walker.
Thankd
I agree with Joe, a transport chair, unlike even a manual wheelchair, is not designed for more than very short distances and only minutes at a time. The small, equal size wheels make the chair completely impractical for anything other than interior floors or smooth pavement. Furthermore the seat, back and armrests are not in the least ergonomic, nor do they need to be since they are not intended to be sat in for long.
OTOH, a manual wheelchair will have 2 large rear wheels, which make it much easier to negotiate rough surfaces, and negotiating curbs, or even stairs with assistance. Plus it's possible for the seated person to push himself, as well as operate the brakes. Also, a proper wheelchair should have adjustable foot rests, and a more comfortable back rest and seat. Sorry for what I hadn't intended to be a lecture. But if your father needs a chair, get a proper folding manual wheelchair, not a transport chair. A bag may be just one more thing that risks getting lost, but I suppose it might be useful when checking it for flights. Any quality storage bag should have instructions or illustrations on its proper use - which should include inserting the wheels into the bag..
In spite of the above trashing of transport chairs. I have used one extensively over the years with my mother and did not have any of the problems the earlier poster was complaining about. You know your father your father knows the chair. If they’re comfortable in it, don’t worry about it.
That said I would put the entire chair in the bag and I would also make sure it was clearly marked as what it is so that the airlines don’t break it - that’s your bigger risk. It might be better if you consider using it to the gate and checking it there I’m just not sure but I feel like that would be better.
I agree with a gatecheck and whole thing bagged. I traveled with an electric wheelchair and always gatechecked, but was required to carry the batteries in the cabin with us.
Thanks so much. Carol, you are right. Dad and I have used this chair for travel before and it's been just what we needed. We will put the whole chair in bag and gate check it.
Thanks.