Travelling with a Powerchair
Practical guidance for planning safe and smooth journeys
For many people, being able to travel—whether for daily errands, appointments, or longer trips—is an important part of staying connected and independent. When you rely on a powerchair for mobility, travelling often requires a little more planning and preparation to ensure everything goes smoothly.
The information below provides general guidance to help reduce the risk of issues during travel and to support safe handling of powerchairs across different transport situations.
Before You Travel
Plan Ahead
Contact your airline, ferry service, or transport provider well in advance of your trip. They may ask for details such as:
The make and type of your mobility device
Overall dimensions (height, width, and length)
Total weight, including batteries
Battery type (for example, sealed or lithium‑ion)
Whether the chair can be folded or disassembled
A copy of the user manual, if required
Providing accurate information early can help transport staff prepare appropriately.
Prepare the Battery
Make sure your powerchair batteries are fully charged before travel, particularly if you will need to use the chair immediately on arrival. Keep the charger accessible where possible.
Before departure, visually inspect batteries and cables for signs of damage, corrosion, or swelling.
Know Your Equipment
Familiarise yourself with key functions of your powerchair, such as:
Enabling freewheel mode
Removing detachable components
Basic handling instructions
This knowledge can be helpful if assistance is required during transport.
Document the Chair
Taking clear photos of your powerchair before travelling can be useful if the device is handled by others or if any damage needs to be reported later.
Air Travel Considerations
Airlines have their own requirements, and it is important to confirm these directly before booking or travelling.
Battery handling rules are governed by international aviation regulations. Depending on the battery type:
Batteries may need to be removed before flight
Lithium‑ion batteries are subject to specific size and handling limits
Spare batteries may need to be carried in cabin luggage and protected from damage
Not all powerchairs are suitable for air travel, and some may require additional preparation. Always check airline guidance and follow instructions provided in the user manual.
General Tips for Flying
Notify the airline well in advance
Clearly label your powerchair with contact details
Remove detachable items such as cushions or accessories where possible
Communicate handling instructions clearly to ground staff
Inspect the chair immediately after arrival and report any issues promptly
Land Transport (Cars and Wheelchair Taxis)
When travelling by car or wheelchair‑accessible taxi:
Transferring to a vehicle seat and using the vehicle’s seatbelt system is recommended where possible
If remaining seated in the powerchair, appropriate securement systems should be used
Postural belts fitted to mobility devices are not designed to provide crash protection
Transport suitability and securement options should be discussed with a clinician or mobility specialist if you are unsure.
After You Travel
Once you arrive:
Inspect the powerchair for visible damage
Test basic functions before regular use
Report any damage or concerns to the transport provider as soon as possible
If problems occur while away from home, local service providers or funders may be able to offer short‑term support.
In Summary
Travelling with a powerchair doesn’t have to be stressful. Clear communication, preparation, and understanding your equipment can make a significant difference.
Taking time to plan ahead helps protect your mobility equipment and supports a smoother travel experience.
If you have questions about mobility equipment or would like guidance before travelling, you’re welcome to contact us at:
customerservice@anvia.co.nz