Planning a day out? A few quick checks before you leave can make your journey more comfortable, enjoyable and stress-free.
Whether you’re heading out for some shopping, meeting friends for lunch, visiting family or enjoying a day somewhere new, taking a few minutes to prepare your mobility scooter, powerchair or other mobility equipment can make all the difference.
Here are five simple checks to make before your next day out.
1. Charge Your Battery
There’s nothing worse than setting off for the day only to realise your battery doesn’t have enough charge to get you home.
Make sure your mobility scooter or powerchair is fully charged before you leave, particularly if you’re planning to travel further than usual.
It’s also worth considering your expected journey length, as battery range can be affected by factors such as terrain, weather conditions, user weight and driving style.
Our tip: If you’re planning a longer trip, check the manufacturer’s stated range and allow some extra capacity rather than relying on the maximum quoted range.
2. Check Your Tyres
Before heading out, take a quick look at your tyres.
Check for:
- Low tyre pressure
- Visible damage
- Excessive wear
- Anything unusual that could affect your journey
If your mobility scooter has pneumatic tyres, keeping them correctly inflated can help provide a more comfortable ride and ensure they perform as intended. Solid tyres, meanwhile, generally require less maintenance.
If something doesn’t feel right when you’re driving, don’t ignore it. Your local mobility specialist can help with servicing, maintenance and repairs.
3. Pack the Essentials
A little preparation can help you enjoy your day without having to worry about the small things.
Depending on where you’re going, consider taking:
- Your phone
- Phone charger or power bank
- Mobility scooter or powerchair charger, if appropriate
- Any necessary mobility accessories
- Medication or personal essentials
- Water
- A small bag for shopping or personal belongings
- Waterproof clothing or an umbrella
If you’re using a mobility scooter that you regularly transport in your car, it’s also worth checking that everything you need can be safely and securely packed before you leave.
For people who frequently travel by car, lightweight or folding mobility equipment can make transportation considerably easier.
4. Plan Your Route
A few minutes of planning can make an unfamiliar journey much easier.
Before setting off, think about:
Where are you going?
Check the route and consider whether there are suitable pavements, paths or accessible entrances.
Where can you park?
If you’re driving, check parking arrangements before you arrive.
Are there accessible toilets?
This can be particularly useful when you’re planning to spend several hours away from home.
What surfaces will you encounter?
Pavements, cobbles, grass, gravel and uneven surfaces can all affect your journey. If you’re travelling somewhere unfamiliar, knowing what to expect can help you choose the most appropriate equipment.
Planning ahead doesn’t mean your day has to be rigid — it simply gives you more confidence to enjoy it.
5. Check the Weather
Finally, take a look at the weather before you leave.
A light rain shower, strong wind or unexpectedly hot weather can change how comfortable your journey feels.
Depending on the forecast, you might want to take:
- A waterproof jacket
- An umbrella
- Extra layers
- Sun protection
- A hat
- Water
Remember that weather conditions can also affect mobility equipment and battery performance, so it’s worth taking them into consideration when planning a longer journey.
Ready to Get Out and About?
With a little preparation, your mobility equipment can help you enjoy greater freedom and independence — whether you’re heading into town, visiting friends or taking a day trip.
At AbleDay, we offer a carefully selected range of mobility scooters, powerchairs, wheelchairs and rollators, with options designed around different lifestyles and mobility needs.
And because AbleDay works with a network of independent mobility specialists across the UK, you can combine the convenience of shopping online with local expert advice, demonstrations, delivery and ongoing support.
Find the Right Mobility Equipment for You
Explore the AbleDay range or find your local AbleDay Partner for advice and support.
Explore Mobility Equipment at AbleDay