When shopping for the best travel wheelchairs, you might become overwhelmed by all the available models.
Fortunately, we’re here to help you choose the perfect foldable wheelchair for travel!
Let’s start with a quick look at our top picks, then keep reading for all the glorious details.
READ MORE: Best Folding Power Wheelchairs
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Best Travel Wheelchairs at a Glance
- Medline Comfort Driven Wheelchair with Removable Desk Arms and Elevating Leg Rests – Great outdoor performance
- Strongback Premium Lightweight Wheelchair – Great for both indoors and outdoors
- Nova Lightweight Transport Chair with Fixed Arms – Adjustable seatbelt and footrests
Check the table below for a side-by-side comparison of our favorites!
What to look for when Buying Travel Wheelchairs
Going on a trip can be difficult and stressful when you’re in a wheelchair or have a disability. There’s a lot of arrangements to make before the trip, including how to transport your heavy-duty wheelchair.
Getting a wheelchair is also a big decision because you’ll use it daily and rely on it to get from point A to point B. You want a wheelchair that fits your specific needs.
That’s why you might consider a travel wheelchair, which is lighter than regular ones and is designed to be easy to carry.
Fortunately, wheelchairs have changed quite a lot in recent years, thanks to technology and innovation. You can get as many wheelchair accessories as you want to make your life easy and comfortable.
But the best travel wheelchairs have a few key features that make them useful for people who want to travel. Let’s look at them.
1. Lightweight/Portability
Standard wheelchairs can be heavy, making it difficult for you to get around the house, let alone travel to another city/country.
That’s why the best travel wheelchairs are light and easy to move/transport to other destinations. You will be able to go shopping with your family on Sundays, visit a friend, and do many more exciting activities.
Lightweight wheelchairs for travel also give more freedom to caregivers because they’re light enough to lift without straining.
2. Compact
Besides weight, the best travel wheelchairs are easy to fold up and don’t take up much space in the vehicle or around the house.
When you’re traveling, you might have limited baggage space, and trying to stuff a heavy wheelchair into a tiny area can be a nightmarish experience.
Moreover, foldable travel wheelchairs allow you to store them easily somewhere in the house for when you need to use them.
3. Easy to Use
When you’re traveling, the last thing you want to do is figure out how to set up or collapse your travel wheelchair.
Look for a chair that is easy to fold/unfold and doesn’t take ages.
4. Sturdiness
Travel wheelchairs need to be sturdy. Otherwise, after a single trip, you may find that you have to replace the wheelchair or purchase replacement parts for wheelchairs.
Look for lightweight transport wheelchairs made of quality material that won’t chip, crack, or bend. Steel is better than aluminum, but it tends to be more expensive and heavy.
5. Easy To Maneuver
Since regular wheelchairs are heavy, they’re more difficult to maneuver because they require more strength. That’s what makes them unfit for traveling.
Instead, look for a lightweight transport wheelchair that you or your caregiver can easily push around so that it doesn’t reduce your mobility.
Top 6 Best Travel Wheelchairs with Reviews
In general, two types of travel wheelchairs exist – manual wheelchairs and electric. While power wheelchairs have their advantage, we’re focusing on manual wheelchairs (for now).
1. The Comfort Driven Wheelchair by Medline: Winner
If you’re going to spend long hours sitting in your travel wheelchair, comfort is of the utmost importance. That’s why you can’t go wrong with Medline’s Comfort Driven wheelchair.
For starters, Medline’s transport wheelchair has soft, nylon upholstery that ensures maximum comfort when traveling. The material is also breathable, so you won’t have to worry about getting sweaty.
Moreover, Medline’s wheelchair has removable armrests so you can sit at the dinner table with no problems and enjoy your meal.
It also has a self-propelling feature and locking brakes, while the flat-free tires and mag wheels ensure a smooth ride no matter what bumps are ahead.
While Medline’s driven comfort wheelchair weighs 38 pounds, it folds quickly, making it easy to transport or store. You will also appreciate the elevating leg rest and the adjustable seat height.
The premium welds also guarantee that the chair is durable and sturdy and won’t fall apart after several trips.
Medline’s product has a 300-pound weight capacity, and the seat is available in several widths—16, 18, or 20 inches.
However, some customers note that the wheelchair doesn’t fit in all vehicles and is harder to maneuver than expected. But it’s great for narrow doorways and tight spaces.
Benefits of The Comfort Driven Wheelchair by Medline
- Great outdoor performance
- Ultra-durable
- Foldable backs for easy storage
- Breathable materials
- Elevated leg rests
- Adjustable seat height
- Withstands up to 300 pounds
Drawbacks of The Comfort Driven Wheelchair by Medline
- It doesn’t fit into all car/door types.
- Not the lightest option
ALSO CHECK: Feather Wheelchair Reviews
2. Strongback Premium Lightweight Wheelchair
The Strongback Premium Lightweight Wheelchair carries a fairly hefty price, but the features are more than making it worth every last penny, especially if you plan to do A LOT of traveling.
This folding wheelchair is built for people who are always on the go. While it’s slightly heavier than others on this list (by about 2-4 pounds), it’s still a lightweight model overall.
The ultra-luxurious leather seat, padded armrests, and adjustable backrest make it an incredibly comfortable ride, while the seat belt and rear-locking brakes keep you safe on the go.
When not in use, the chair folds up compactly enough to fit right in your trunk. No special carrier or rack is required.
This baby is made to last, with durable materials throughout. So while it may cost a pretty penny, it will likely be the ONLY travel wheelchair you’ll ever need to buy.
Benefits of Strongback Premium Lightweight Wheelchair
- Arrives assembled and ready to use
- Great for both indoors and outdoors
- Ergonomic back support helps correct your posture
- Comes in Black and Tan or Black and Blue
- Supports up to 300 lbs
- Made in the USA
Drawbacks of Strongback Premium Lightweight Wheelchair
- The most expensive travel wheelchair on this list
- Only available in two sizes for seat width- 16 and 18 inches
- Slightly heavier than other models
3. Nova Lightweight Transport Chair with Fixed Arms
Nova Medical’s transport chair is perfect for wheelchair users who want something comfortable to maneuver and transport.
It features a lightweight aluminum frame, so you can lift it in and out of any vehicle without straining muscles. The quick-release fold-down back makes it compact and easy to fold.
While light, the chair is sturdy and durable. It has removable Anti-trippers and secondary wheel locks for safety, and the adjustable seat belt adds another layer of security during travel.
The chair also boasts Nova’s unique Feather Touch hand brakes and 8-inch rear wheels for maximum speed control.
These key features allow companions and caregivers to safely park the wheelchair on uneven surfaces, making it perfect for travel.
Wheelchair users love the flip-up and removable padded desk arms. Thanks to them, it’s easier than ever to make the transfer from the chair to a vehicle, sit at the dining table, or ride up to desks.
Furthermore, the Nova lightweight travel wheelchair has swing-away footrests with heel loops for comfort and security. You can easily adjust the footrests or remove them if you don’t need them.
The wheelchair also has a weight capacity of 300 pounds, so you don’t have to worry about breaking or bending it.
Moreover, you get a small storage pouch to keep your mobile phone/keys close to you when you’re traveling.
However, some wheelchair users note that the seat is not as comfortable as expected and that they need a seat cushion. Some also state that armrests are too short.
Benefits of Nova Lightweight Transport Chair with Fixed Arms
- Weight capacity up to 300 pounds
- Light aluminum frame
- Adjustable seatbelt and footrests
- Cushioned armrests
- Removable flip-up armrests
- Removable footrests
- Safety features
Drawbacks of Nova Lightweight Transport Chair with Fixed Arms
- Short seat depth
- Armrests are too short for some users.
4. The Blue Streak Wheelchair with Flip Back Desk Arms by Drive Medical
Drive Medical has a well-earned reputation among people with disabilities, so it’s no surprise that they offer one of the best travel wheelchairs on the market.
Their Blue Streak chair has a unique design to provide you with maximum versatility, portability, and comfort.
This travel wheelchair features swing-away leg rests and detachable armrests, which makes it perfect for travel. It’s also easy to maneuver, folds quickly, and doesn’t weigh a ton.
The 18-inch wide seat is designed for maximum convenience, comfort, and cushioning to make long trips in this wheelchair as pleasurable as possible.
The rubber tires, with their push-and-lock feature, ensure that you won’t trip over bumps and that you can park your wheelchair safely. The calf straps can also come in handy for extra protection.
Moreover, Drive Medical’s lightweight transport wheelchair needs little maintenance due to padded nylon upholstery. The blue frame also has a steel finish to prevent chipping and cracking.
However, some users complain that the wheels squeak too much and that they didn’t get the removable footrests.
Still, Drive Medical’s product remains one of the best lightweight folding wheelchairs.
Benefits of The Blue Streak Wheelchair with Flip Back Desk Arms by Drive Medical
- Easy to clean
- Removable armrest
- Great for bumpy terrain
- Swing-away leg rest
- Sturdy steel frame
Drawbacks of The Blue Streak Wheelchair with Flip Back Desk Arms by Drive Medical
- Better for temporary than for everyday use
- Squeaky wheels
READ MORE: Difference Between Wheelchair and Transport Chair
5. Karman S-125 Ergonomic Wheelchair
If you’re looking for a lightweight wheelchair, you can’t go wrong with Karman’s ergonomic chair, which promises ultimate mobility.
Since the chair weighs only 14.5 pounds (without the rear wheels), it is easy to transport anywhere.
The wheelchair also easily fits in travel bags, trunks, or the back seat of a car. Its removable footrests and wheels ensure maximum portability.
Check out our article in the Air4All Arline wheelchair system
Moreover, Karman’s wheelchair has an ergonomic design that addresses caregiver’s and users’ needs and provides maximum comfort.
The S-shape seating frame follows the body’s natural curves, reduces the risks of pressure ulcers, and promotes a better posture. You can spend hours sitting, and you won’t feel sore.
On the other hand, the companion brakes allow wheelchair users and caregivers to stop the wheelchair safely without bending down. You can go up or down slopes/ramps without fearing a fall.
Moreover, the brakes make it easy to maneuver the wheelchair in tight spaces or slow down safely when you need it. The large wheels also ensure a smooth ride and safety on inclines.
The Karman wheelchair has a weight capacity of 220 pounds, which is slightly lower than the usual limit. But the seat is available in two sizes – 16″ x 17 and 18″ x 17″ – and you’ve got a storage pocket in the back.
Benefits of Karman S-125 Ergonomic Wheelchair
- Removable wheels/footrests
- Hand brakes
- Foldable, compact, and versatile
- Ultralight transport wheelchair
- Detachable footrests
Drawbacks of Karman S-125 Ergonomic Wheelchair
- No seatbelt
- Not the cheapest option
6. The Aluminum Transport Wheelchair by ProBasics
Last but not least in our list of the best travel wheelchairs is ProBasics’ Aluminium chair that impresses with several key features.
Thanks to the back release hinges and nylon straps, this lightweight transport wheelchair folds in seconds. It folds flat to 10.25 inches wide, making it perfect for traveling and storage.
Furthermore, since the wheelchair weighs only 22 pounds, it’s not hard to lift or carry when necessary or fit it in a travel bag when boarding an airplane.
We also like that this lightweight model features an adjustable seatbelt, push-to-lock brakes (user-activated), and lockable hand brakes (companion-activated) to ensure user safety.
It’s never been easier for caregivers to engage the rear brake and lock the wheelchair when transferring patients from the wheelchair to vehicles.
The ProBasicic chair also boasts a paddle seat so that you can use the wheelchair for extended periods without getting sores. The breathable nylon upholstery is easy to clean and prevents overheating.
But that’s not all. For added comfort and convenience, you get padded full-length armrests, tool-free swing-away footrests, and heel loops.
Moreover, the 12-inch wheels deliver great performance on rough surfaces and ensure that you don’t feel bumps and obstacles.
Caregivers also like the flared handles and ergonomic grip, which make it easy to push the wheelchair without fingers slipping.
A weight capacity of 300 pounds also ensures that the chair can handle a lot of pressure without breaking.
Overall, this lightweight chair is an excellent choice for both wheelchair users, seniors, and caregivers.
However, customers note that the seat dimensions are smaller than 19 inches and that the small wheels make it harder to push than expected.
Benefits of The Aluminum Transport Wheelchair by ProBasics
- Adjustable seatbelt
- Compact folding mechanism
- Padded seat
- Swing-away foot
- Flared handles
- Full-length padded armrests
- Caregiver comfort
Drawbacks of The Aluminum Transport Wheelchair by ProBasics
- The seat is not very wide.
- Small wheels
Conclusion
We hope that our article and reviews have helped you discover the best travel wheelchair for your specific needs.
If you’re still deciding whether to get a travel wheelchair, consider its versatility and durability. A lightweight chair can serve multiple purposes, making it an excellent investment.
More importantly, travel wheelchairs make life easier for you and your caregiver, give you back the opportunity to travel, and increase your independence.
Our Choice
These five lightweight transport wheelchairs are undoubtedly the best available on the market. Each one can increase your mobility and make traveling possible again.
But if you ask us to name one that stands among the rest, our choice is clear. We believe that Karman Ergonomic Wheelchair delivers the best mix of key features, versatile design, and performance.
Since it’s the lightest wheelchair on the list, you can take it anywhere. It’s an ideal choice for shopping, short family visits, or long trips because it provides a comfortable ride.
Moreover, the wheelchair folds flat in seconds and fits with no problems inside trunks, planes, or closets. It won’t take extra space in your home when you don’t need it.
However, if it’s not within your budget, The Comfort Driven Wheelchair by Medline offers plenty of features for an affordable price.
What do you think about these top best travel wheelchairs? Have you ever used one, and what’s your experience with them? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
A few of these would have been nice to have for my Dad. He just had the standard wheelchair and it was a pain at times.
This is very helpful info. Traveling with a wheelchair can be tough to do.
It’s good to see some nice wheelchairs out there for traveling. That’s always a good option.
Such a great resource here for anyone that may need one of these soon. I for sure am bookmarking it as my Father in law has mobility issues.
My mom is approaching 90 and while she is still able to walk short distances, she has mentioned that she would like a wheelchair for longer excursions. This guide is perfect for to help us choose which is the right one for her.
I think the Nove lightweight wheelchair is quite great.
I am glad that there are these options and we can solve it with the right wheelchair!
This list would be helpful to those who are shopping for one. Great post!
This is very convenient information since the number of handicap people seems to be growing.
Thank you for this one. Great tips here that my sister can use with her husband. He needs one and I man sharing this with her so thank you!
These are good tips. When my mom was in a wheelchair, I wish I’d have had points like this prior to buying.
Great resource if you are in need of a wheelchair while traveling.
It looks like you have a great selection of travel wheelchairs here!
For people that have become bound to a wheelchair, getting the right one that is best suited for a persons lifestyle is crucial. And I love how detailed and throughout you are when listing the pros and cons of each chair. Thanks for sharing!
Traveling with a wheelchair sounds tough, glad there are options out there for those who want or have to travel!
These wheelchairs seem so helpful. Would like to have the first one for my old uncle.
This looks like it was a good and comprehensive list, I didn’t realize there were so many different types of travel-specific wheelchairs!
Now I know which travel wheelchair is the best.
It is nice to have so many options when it comes to traveling. And good to have some feedback on which wheelchairs are best for travel.
Now that I know what is the best wheelchair to purchase for your next trip thanks for sharing this with us.