Illustrative picture. We confirm the exact model with your price.
Lightweight transit wheelchair
A foldable chair with small wheels, pushed by a carer, for outings and appointments.
Good forPeople who need to be pushed for short trips
- Price and delivery confirmed first
- A nurse can advise before you buy
- Set-up help when it is needed
What it is, and who it helps
A transit wheelchair is a light folding chair with four small wheels, built to be pushed by someone else. It weighs much less than a self-propelled wheelchair and folds flat for a car boot, which makes it practical for outings, hospital visits and travel.
It is not meant to be pushed by the person sitting in it, because the wheels are too small to reach. It is a good second chair for someone who can walk a little but needs a seat for longer trips.
How to choose
- Check the weight of the chair and how easily it folds, since the carer will lift it often.
- Choose a seat width that fits the person, with room for a hand either side of the hips.
- Look for hand brakes the carer can use, footrests that swing away and a seat belt.
- Add a pressure-relief cushion if the person will sit for more than an hour.
Using it safely
- Lock the brakes before the person gets in or out, and lift the footrests out of the way.
- Do not leave the person unattended on a slope, and tip the chair back to go up and down kerbs.
- Check tyres, brakes and the folding lock regularly.
Before you buy
Can my parent push a transit wheelchair themselves?
Not easily. For self-propelling, choose a standard manual wheelchair with large rear wheels.
Can I rent one for a trip?
Yes. Rental is a good way to try a chair for a holiday or a recovery period.
More in Mobility and walking aids · Care plans · Services · Preventing falls in older adults · Medical equipment at home
General information, not medical advice. Ask a doctor, nurse or physiotherapist what is right for your parent.
Often chosen together
Manual wheelchair
Folding wheelchair with brakes, footrests and a supportive seat. Available to rent for recovery.
Gel pressure-relief cushion
Gel and foam cushion that spreads pressure for wheelchair or chair users.
Transfer belt for carers
A padded belt that lets a carer help someone stand and move without pulling on the arm.
Not sure this is the right one?
A nurse can suggest the right choice, arrange delivery and show how to use it.