How to Protect Your WHILL Power Chair When Traveling

Travel opens opportunities to explore new places and enjoy experiences that bring happiness and independence. When bringing your WHILL power chair along, follow a few simple steps to ensure it stays secure, performs as expected, and arrives ready to use. Whether your trip involves a weekend getaway or a long flight, preparing your mobility power chair before traveling can save time and prevent unnecessary wear.

Protecting your mobility chair when traveling starts with understanding how the chair is built. Models such as the WHILL Model C2 and the WHILL Model F are designed with travel in mind. Their compact frames, modular parts, and intuitive interfaces simplify transport.

For example, the WHILL Model C2 includes a modular frame that separates into manageable pieces, which simplifies loading and storage. The Model F folds in seconds and features a lightweight design that helps reduce strain when lifting it into a vehicle. Both models protect the essential electronics within the frame, helping shield the system from accidental bumps during handling.

Travel environments can be unpredictable, but a thoughtful routine helps keep your power chair in optimal condition. Whether you are traveling by air or in a vehicle, always conduct your pre-checks. Start by inspecting the frame, battery, armrests, and controller to make sure each component is secured. Clean the wheels and undercarriage to remove dust or debris that can scratch surfaces when packed.

You should also label your device with handling instructions and attach identification with your name, contact details, and destination, especially when traveling by air. If your chair has smaller removable parts, such as the joystick, place them in a carry-on or padded bag. This reduces pressure on delicate components, lowering the risk of misplaced accessories.

Road travel offers flexibility for protecting your WHILL. Here is how to make the most of it:

• Prepare for packing: Fold or disassemble your chair according to the model’s design and use transport restraints to stabilize the chair. For the Model C2, detach the seat and drive base if you need to distribute weight between passengers.
• Charge the battery: Ensure the chair’s battery is fully charged before departure, and bring a backup power source on the trip.
• Check on the chair: During longer trips, give the wheelchair a quick check at rest stops. Ensure that the battery connection remains snug and the wheels roll smoothly. These small steps help maintain optimal performance when you reach your destination.

Familiarize yourself with airline regulations, such as the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and research airline policies regarding electric wheelchairs. Arrive early to allow time for check-in and talk to the airline staff to request gate-check service. You should also:

• Remove critical components. Most airlines require you to remove lithium-ion batteries. You can easily disconnect WHILL batteries and pack them into your carry-on. WHILL Model R, C2, and F power chair batteries are air travel certified.
• Protect the chair. Use bubble wrap or protective padding to cover the sensitive parts of the chair while it is in the cargo hold.
• Leave instructions. Add a tag to your chair that, in addition to your contact information, includes clear instructions on how to handle your mobility chair. Point out where the freewheel levers are and describe approved lifting options.
• Take a photo. Take a photo of your chair before handing it over for the cargo hold to have a record of its pre-handling condition.

When you land, inspect the chair before leaving the gate area. If you notice an issue, report it immediately so that the airline can document and address your concern.

Cruise and ferry travel offer accessible environments — however, movement on and off the vessel requires special care. Research cruise line policies to confirm accessibility and chair requirements.

Keep in mind that large ships offer more stability when boarding, but smaller vessels may move significantly. Approach steep ramps slowly, especially during low tide, to avoid damaging the chair. It is also crucial that you choose a cabin with accessibility features and ample space where you can secure the chair to prevent it from shifting due to the ship’s motion.

Buses, trains, and shuttles offer accessible mobility options, but require additional planning to ensure the mode of transport meets your needs.

Never use your WHILL as a seat when the vehicle is in motion. Engage the chair’s electromagnetic brakes when the vehicle is operating, keep the chair secured with tie-down straps where possible, and turn the device off if you are stepping away from it. These are small adjustments that can help protect your chair in crowded, fast-moving environments.

With the right steps, you can maintain performance and extend the life of your chair wherever your plans take you. Contact WHILL today for tips, accessories, and support to help you understand how to protect your WHILL power chair wherever you go.