Regaining Confidence Outdoors With Your Electric Wheelchair

Getting back out there 

Spending time outdoors is about so much more than getting from A to B. It’s a way to stay connected, enjoy the fresh air, and feel independent. But if you’ve lost a bit of confidence when it comes to kerbs, uneven paths, or lifting your chair into the car, you’re not alone. 

 

With some planning, the right setup, and a few simple routines, getting out and about can become second nature again, and something to genuinely look forward to. 

 

Getting ready to travel 

If you use a compact electric wheelchair and like to travel by car, your vehicle often becomes the key to freedom, connecting you to the places and people that make life enjoyable. 

 

When choosing a powerchair, look for a model that’s compact enough to store in your boot while still offering good stability and range once you’re out and about. Mobility Extra offers a helpful selection of lightweight folding and travel-friendly powerchairs designed for everyday use. You can explore their full range here. 

 

Making lifting easier with a boot hoist 

For many people, the biggest challenge when travelling with a powerchair isn’t the journey itself, it’s getting the chair in and out of the car. If that sounds familiar, a car boot hoist could make all the difference. 

 

Boot hoists are clever lifting devices fitted inside your car’s boot. At the touch of a button, they safely lift your powerchair in and out, and for the more compact powerchairs, this can mean no dismantling or removal of batteries. Everything stays in one piece, ready to use when you reach your destination. 

 

The benefits go far beyond convenience. A boot hoist can: 

 

• Reduce strain on your back, shoulders, and joints. 

• Save time when loading and unloading your chair. 

• Make spontaneous trips easier with compact powerchairs, just press a button and go. 

• Support independence, even if lifting has become difficult. 

 

Once fitted, using a hoist quickly becomes second nature. Many users find that having a boot hoist restores their confidence to travel more often, whether it’s running errands, visiting friends, or enjoying a family day out.  If you’ve been putting off trips because of lifting worries, a boot hoist can be a simple, life-changing addition that opens up your world again. 

Keeping your chair ready to go 

There’s nothing worse than planning a day out and worrying about running out of charge. Most compact powerchairs cover around 10–12 miles per charge, depending on the model and terrain. 

 

Before each outing, make sure your battery is fully charged and, if possible, pack a spare for longer days. A quick glance at your chair’s display panel before you leave can save you a lot of stress later on. 

 

Finding the right fit for your lifestyle 

Every wheelchair user has different priorities. Some value lightness and portability, while others prefer a bit more comfort for longer journeys. Here are a few things to think about when choosing or reviewing your setup: 

 

• Weight and size: Can you lift or store it comfortably? 

• Range: Will it take you where you want to go without worry? 

• Terrain: Do you mainly use it on pavements, or do you enjoy parks and paths too? 

• Comfort features: Adjustable seating and suspension can make a big difference on longer outings. 

 

If you’re unsure where to start, it’s worth speaking to a trusted mobility supplier like Mobility Extra for personalised advice as the right powerchair should make daily life easier, not add new challenges. 

 

Building confidence, step by step 

Regaining confidence outdoors takes time, and that’s perfectly okay. Start with short, familiar trips such as a quiet morning shop or a trip to your local park. As you build experience, kerbs, crossings, and uneven surfaces will start to feel more natural. 

 

A few gentle reminders: 

 

• Keep your speed low in tight spaces or busy areas. 

• Approach kerbs straight on and avoid slopes that look too steep for your chair’s rating. 

• Before visiting new places, check accessibility details like parking, ramps, and toilets, It’s reassuring to know what to expect before you arrive. 

 

Each positive outing builds momentum, and before long, confidence grows naturally with every journey. 

 

Simple habits that make a big difference 

• Take your time. Smooth, steady movements keep you in control. 

• Fold footrests when going through narrow doorways. 

• Pack a waterproof cover just in case the weather changes. 

• Do a quick check of tyres, brakes, and battery connections now and then. 

 

Small steps like these keep your chair in good shape and help you focus on the fun part: enjoying your day out. 

 

Why getting outdoors matters 

 

The benefits of being outdoors go far beyond mobility. Fresh air and sunlight can lift your mood, boost energy, and improve sleep. Even short trips, a chat with neighbours, a scenic drive, or a coffee in the park can make a big difference. 

 

With regular use, confidence grows quickly, and soon the focus shifts from how you’ll get somewhere to where you’ll go next. 

 

A quick pre-trip checklist 

Before you set off, take a minute to run through a few essentials: 

 

• Batteries charged (and spare packed if needed) 

• Travel bag or cover ready 

• Route checked for dropped kerbs or accessible entrances 

• Weather forecast looked at 

 

A little preparation helps every outing go smoothly and makes each journey feel easier and more enjoyable. 

 

Your Next Journey

Regaining your confidence outdoors isn’t about doing everything perfectly, it’s about taking small, steady steps until getting out and about feels natural again. With a reliable powerchair, a bit of planning, and a few familiar routines, you’ll soon be enjoying your independence, one trip at a time. 

 

If you’re exploring new ways to travel with your powerchair or want to see the latest lightweight and folding models, take a look at Mobility Extra’s collection of powerchairs.