One of our favorite things about an electric scooter is how we can travel and explore. You are one with everything you see while riding! If you ever want to stop to take a picture, smell some flowers, or take a closer look at a rock formation, electric scooters get you closer than any other vehicle. We love traveling with friends on scooters, racing down trails, and experiencing your ride with all five senses. 

Whenever you travel somewhere new, an electric scooter - or e-scooter -  can be a great way to get to know the area! So, if you have a scooter, you should know the best way to travel with one. Here, we have gathered some great tips on traveling both in and out of your city with your scooter and its accessories.  

Staying safe while traveling in your city 

Want to trek outside of your neighborhood but keep your carbon emissions down? Taking the train or bus is a great way to explore a new destination. Additionally, bringing your electric scooter onto public transit can be a convenient way to extend your journey. 

However, it's essential to be respectful and aware whenever you take your scooter on to any mode of transportation. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth experience for you and other passengers.

Before heading out, familiarize yourself with the train or bus policies about bringing e-scooters on board.  Scooters aren’t yet on the radar of most transit agencies, but check to be sure. If you want to be extra cautious, just observe the bike restrictions (if any).

1. If possible, plan your transit journey during off-peak hours. Daily commuters will thank you, and you will have fewer issues navigating stations and boarding transit. 
2. When boarding or exiting public transportation, be considerate of other passengers. If your scooter is foldable, fold it before entering to create more space for everyone. Position yourself near the doors to minimize the time spent maneuvering your scooter. Attach a center of gravity sticker, a simple scooter accessory, to help you pick up your scooter with one grab each time you get on or off transit. 
3. Secure Your Scooter. While on public transit, keep a firm grip on your scooter to prevent it from rolling around and causing inconvenience to others. Fold it up if you can.
4. Be Mindful of Space. Respect the personal space of other passengers. Avoid blocking aisles or seats with your scooter, and position yourself so that others can easily get past you and your ride.
5. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on transit announcements and updates, as policies may change. Staying informed about any restrictions ensures a hassle-free experience. 

Pack a Bag to Keep the Adventure Going 

As you gear up for a day of exploration, it's essential to pack thoughtfully to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride. Let's explore the packing essentials that will enhance your city exploration on an electric scooter.

Hydration is key. Staying energized and refreshed during your journey is crucial, so pack a water bottle. Opt for a reusable one to minimize environmental impact as you navigate the city streets. 

Consider bringing a snack to keep your energy levels up. An easy-to-carry snack like a Kind Bar will provide a quick boost, ensuring you're ready for unexpected detours or extended rides. I like to carry a knapsack with me to have all of my essentials in one place without the chance of dropping them.

Safety should be a top priority when traveling with an e-scooter. Packing your helmet is non-negotiable. Ensure it meets safety standards and fits snugly to provide optimal protection. 

Before setting out, charge all electronics. Ask yourself, does your scooter have enough battery life to get you to your destination, and is there charging available there? Bring your charger if you’ll need to charge.  Is your phone charged enough to last the entire trip?  If not, bring some chargers or wait until they have full battery power. Finally, be sure to add the route to your destination in a navigation app to guide you through city streets and help you discover hidden gems along the way. 

Some notes when traveling outside of your local area:

Unfortunately, FAA regulations say you can't bring a scooter on board an airplane.  That's because the default limit on lithium-ion batteries is that they need to be in the passenger compartment, and they need to be 100Wh in capacity or lower. It's for good reason!  In the past, cheap lithium batteries were known to catch on fire. An airplane cannot take that risk, especially in the baggage compartment.

Incidentally, that's why you get Li-ion power banks that max out at 26,800 mah capacity ... that's 100 watt-hours and the max you can take legally on board with you (at least without a written waiver from the carrier).  It's not just Amazon being weird.

And, all adult e-scooters typically have a battery five or ten times as large as the FAA limit.  So… no e-scooters in the cabin or checked luggage!

Some Possible Solutions if you have to fly

1. Shipping your scooter to your destination in its original packing box. You kept it the way they asked you to, right?  If you’ve opened your scooter, you can have the shipping store pack it for you and then ship it back at the end of your vacation.
2. Take the battery out of the bottom of the deck (which can be significant surgery on some scooters) and ship that separately, and then check your battery-less scooter on board.
3. If you have a scooter with a removable battery, remove that and ship it separately. 
4. Lastly, don't fly. Take a train or bus. There's no problem with land-based transport. The planet will thank you for it.

Let Scooters Take You Down New Paths

Traveling with an e-scooter can genuinely elevate your next trip. Whether exploring your neighboring town or traveling to new destinations, following these tips will help ensure ease while traveling. Stay informed on travel regulations, electric scooter safety guidelines, and how to travel long distances so you can have your scooter on hand to explore your destination.