Ruth Haines
Electric scooters have become an increasingly popular mode of transportation, and many people wonder if they can bring their scooters with them when they travel. While it is possible to bring an electric scooter on a plane, it requires careful planning and adherence to specific regulations. The rules and regulations regarding electric scooters vary depending on the city and mode of transportation. For example, in Toronto, electric scooters are allowed on the subway as long as they are folded and placed in a carrying case, while in Vancouver, they are not permitted on the SkyTrain at all. When it comes to air travel, the key factors to consider are battery capacity, airline-specific policies, scooter size and weight, and proper documentation. Most recreational scooters are prohibited on planes, but mobility scooters for those with disabilities can usually be brought on as carry-on luggage with advance notification to the airline. Additionally, the scooter's battery must not exceed 100 watt-hours, and it must comply with the airline's size and weight limits.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Riding a scooter to the airport | Possible, but not through security |
| Riding a scooter inside the airport | Possible, but only if it is a mobility scooter |
| Bringing a scooter on a plane | Possible, but depends on the airline and scooter model |
| Factors to consider | Battery capacity, airline-specific policies, scooter size and weight, and proper documentation |
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What You'll Learn
Electric scooter battery requirements
Electric scooters have become increasingly popular for air travel, but different airlines have different requirements. The primary concern in bringing an e-scooter on a plane is its battery, due to the risk of overheating, catching fire, or exploding.
Most airlines allow electric scooters with lithium-ion batteries if they are under 160 watt-hours (Wh). Batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh may be carried in hand luggage and may require airline approval. Batteries under 100Wh are typically allowed without special permission. If the battery exceeds 160Wh, it is forbidden to carry in the cabin or hold. This excludes most e-scooters since they have more than 160Wh batteries.
Some airlines make exceptions for medically necessary mobility devices, even allowing batteries up to 300Wh. However, international guidelines around lithium-ion batteries tend to be stricter. Batteries usually cannot exceed 300Wh, with a spare battery allowed of up to 300Wh or two spares of up to 160Wh each.
Before travelling, it is important to check the latest TSA or airline guidelines. It is recommended to contact the airline at least 48 hours in advance to provide details about the scooter's size, weight, battery size and type, and to receive operator approval. Some airlines require that electric scooter batteries be removable, and if so, the battery must be carried onboard as hand luggage. It is also important to have safety documentation and compliance certificates, such as UN38.3 for batteries.
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Riding a scooter through airport security
If you are travelling with a mobility scooter, you can usually take it with you as a carry-on item. However, it's important to notify the airline in advance, especially if the device's battery wattage is above 100Wh. Some airlines make exceptions for such devices, even if they have a battery of up to 300Wh. For example, Delta Air Lines has restrictive guidelines, prohibiting any riding equipment with lithium or lithium-ion batteries on board. United Airlines prohibits passengers from taking any recreational rideable.
To ensure a smooth journey, it is recommended that you familiarise yourself with airline policies regarding mobility aids. Most airlines follow IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR). The guidance for 2025–2026 requires passengers to receive operator approval in advance and to submit detailed information about their mobility device and battery configuration.
When you arrive at the airport, proceed to the check-in counter and inform the staff that you need a mobility aid boarding tag for your scooter. Once tagged, you can ride your scooter to the security checkpoint. At the checkpoint, TSA and airport security may inspect your scooter and battery. They may ask you to remove the battery, but this is not common. If possible, step through the metal detector while your scooter is inspected. If not, TSA staff can provide you with a wheelchair.
After clearing security, reattach the battery and continue riding to your gate. At the gate, approach the airline staff to confirm the boarding process for your scooter. Most airlines will allow you to ride to the gate area, where staff will take your scooter for loading.
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Checking in a scooter as luggage
Most airlines will allow electric scooters as checked luggage, but some may require it to be packed in a specific way, such as in a protective case or bag, and stored in a particular area of the plane. It is important to check the battery specifications of your scooter, as some batteries are prohibited on planes. Most airlines allow lithium-ion batteries with a watt-hour rating of up to 100Wh to be checked in as luggage. Some airlines may allow larger batteries of up to 160Wh if they are approved in advance.
If your scooter is a mobility aid, you can usually take it with you as carry-on luggage, but you must notify the airline in advance, especially if the battery wattage is above 100Wh. Some airlines make exceptions for such devices, even with batteries of up to 300Wh. However, some airlines, such as Delta Air Lines, have very restrictive guidelines and do not allow any riding equipment with lithium or lithium-ion batteries on board.
To ensure your scooter arrives safely, it is recommended to disconnect the battery and wrap it in protective material, such as bubble wrap. It is also a good idea to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare, as checking an electric scooter can take longer than checking normal luggage.
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Riding a scooter in the airport perimeter
Electric scooters are becoming an increasingly popular mode of transportation. However, when it comes to riding them inside an airport, there are several factors to consider, including the varying rules and regulations of different airports and countries.
In the context of riding a scooter within the airport perimeter, it is important to distinguish between personal electric scooters and those provided by the airport. Personal electric scooters are generally prohibited from being ridden within the airport perimeter due to security concerns and the potential obstruction of pedestrian traffic. However, some airports may allow passengers to use their scooters as a mobility aid until they reach the security checkpoint or gate, provided they obtain a mobility tag and follow specific guidelines.
On the other hand, some airports provide their own scooters, such as the Bird scooters mentioned in a Reddit thread, which users can ride within the airport perimeter, including the sidewalks outside the airport. These scooters are often meant for short-distance travel and may be available for free or at a rental cost.
It is worth noting that the regulations regarding electric scooters are constantly evolving, and it is always advisable to check with the specific airport or transit system to stay informed about their latest rules. Additionally, when travelling with an electric scooter, it is important to be aware of the airline's policies, battery requirements, and any necessary documentation to ensure a smooth travel experience.
In conclusion, while riding a scooter within the airport perimeter may be restricted in certain areas, it can still be a convenient option for passengers, especially when provided by the airport itself. As the popularity of electric scooters grows, we can expect to see more consideration and accommodation for their use in and around airports.
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Scooter rental options at the destination
If you're travelling to your destination by plane, it's worth noting that most recreational scooters are prohibited on planes due to safety concerns. However, if you have a disability that necessitates the use of a mobility scooter, you can usually take it with you as carry-on luggage, provided you notify the airline in advance, especially if the device's battery wattage exceeds 100Wh.
That being said, renting a scooter at your destination is a convenient option to consider. Here are some scooter rental companies and their offerings:
Scootaround
Scootaround offers scooter rentals in over 2500 locations across North America and Europe. They provide both 3-wheel and 4-wheel scooter options, with accessories such as a rear basket, canopy, cup holder, and cane holder. Their scooters are designed for stability and higher weight capacities, making them ideal for day-to-day activities. However, keep in mind that their standard scooters cannot be easily disassembled, so you'll need a larger vehicle for transportation.
Special Needs Group/Special Needs at Sea
Special Needs Group/Special Needs at Sea is a travel services company that provides mobility scooters and other special needs equipment for travellers. They deliver rental equipment to 217 metropolitan areas in 70 countries globally, including cruise ships, hotels, airports, and more. Their scooters are designed for airport travel, theme parks, and resorts, ensuring comfort, convenience, and independence during your travels.
Apollo Scooters
While Apollo Scooters does not provide specific information on rental services, they offer insights and guidelines for travelling with electric scooters. They emphasise the importance of checking with transit systems and airlines regarding their rules and regulations for electric scooters. This includes understanding their policies on battery wattage and storage.
When considering scooter rental options at your destination, it is advisable to research and contact local rental companies or tourist information centres for up-to-date information on availability, pricing, and delivery options. By planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can ride your scooter to the security checkpoint and then to your gate.
Yes, it is recommended that you notify the airline in advance so that you can receive operator approval and submit detailed information about your scooter.
Yes, the type of scooter you can bring depends on the airline. Most recreational scooters are prohibited on planes, but mobility scooters are usually allowed.
Yes, the battery capacity is a key factor in determining whether you can bring your scooter on a plane. Most airlines do not allow batteries larger than 100Wh, but some may allow up to 160Wh or even 300Wh if you request it in advance.
If you are checking luggage, visit the check-in counter to request a boarding tag for your scooter. This identifies it as a mobility aid. If you are not checking luggage, you can skip the main counter and check your scooter at the gate by requesting a mobility tag from the gate agent.
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