Determining whether it's better to buy or rent mobility scooters depends on your budget, how long you need the scooter, how often you'll use it, and more. Our helpful comparison guide covers everything you need to know to help you feel confident in your choice!
Pros and Cons of Renting Mobility Scooters
Renting is a convenient option for many people. Here are some of the top benefits of renting a mobility scooter:
- Beneficial for short-term disabilities: If you are recovering from surgery, healing after an injury, navigating the postpartum period, or managing another short-term disability, renting a mobility scooter can help you move around as your body heals or your symptoms improve.
- Allows you to try different models: Different models have different features. When you rent, you can explore them all to find the perfect fit if you want to eventually purchase your own scooter.
- No maintenance costs: Rental companies typically handle maintenance and repairs, which can save you money and simplify your experience. Always read your rental contract to determine whether scooter maintenance is covered.
- More cost-effective: Renting is a more cost-effective option than purchasing, which involves a large upfront investment.
- Most convenient for travel: If you're an avid traveler and love exploring new places, renting a mobility scooter at your destination is much easier than packing it in the car or taking it onto a plane. There is also a risk of damage to the device when it is being transported by plane.
While incredibly helpful for many people, renting may not be the best option for everyone. For example:
- Renting would likely be more expensive for users who require devices for extended periods.
- Renters have limited customization options.
- Renting relies on availability, which can be a challenge during the rental destination's peak seasons.
Pros and Cons of Purchasing Mobility Scooters
Owning a rental scooter might be better if you need it for long periods. Additional benefits of buying a mobility scooter include:
- Cost-effective for long-term use: While renting is a worthwhile option for people with short-term disabilities, purchasing will likely be more cost-effective if you need the scooter for the long term. For example, owning a scooter can be helpful for individuals with paralysis or muscular disease, or for older adults with mobility limitations.
- Customization options: Purchasing a scooter allows you to personalize it with upgrades like under-seat compartments, padded seat covers, adjustable armrests, horns, reflective stickers, and rear baskets. These customizations can make your scooter safer, more comfortable and more effective.
- Convenience and availability: When you own a mobility scooter, you can use it anytime you need it without worrying about availability.
- Resale value: When you're ready to upgrade to a new model or you no longer need a long-term device, you can sell your mobility scooter. Your scooter's age, condition, model, weight capacity, battery life, customizations, and warranty and service options can influence its value.
Before making a purchase, consider the potential disadvantages of buying a mobility scooter:
- Purchasing a mobility scooter requires higher upfront costs.
- You are responsible for maintenance.
- Scooters take up space, which might not be ideal for a smaller home or apartment.
- Traveling with a scooter can be complicated or inconvenient.
Factors to Consider When Buying or Renting Mobility Scooters
If you're still unsure whether to rent or buy mobility scooters, asking yourself these questions might help:
- What is your budget? Renting is more budget-friendly than purchasing a scooter. However, purchasing is more cost-effective in the long run.
- How often will you use the scooter? If you plan to use the scooter daily for the foreseeable future, owning a scooter is extremely convenient. If you do not need to use a mobility scooter every day, renting may be better.
- How long do you need the scooter? People who use mobility scooters to manage chronic conditions or long-term disabilities might benefit from owning one. However, if you only need a scooter while recovering from surgery, going on vacation, or healing from an injury, renting is likely the more convenient option.
- Do you want customization and personalization options? Customizations can make your mobility scooter more comfortable. You must own the device if you are interested in upgrades like rearview mirrors or additional storage.
- Is resale value important? Selling your purchased mobility scooter can help you recoup some of your initial investment in a new device.
- Are you an avid traveler? If you love exploring new places, going on road trips, or visiting faraway family members and friends, renting a mobility scooter is the more convenient option. You can easily rent a device at your intended destination and enjoy a seamless travel experience.
Rent or Buy Mobility Scooters With Scootaround
Whether you want to rent a mobility scooter for your upcoming travels or purchase a device to help you remain mobile in everyday life, you can rely on Scootaround. As the nation's leading personal transportation solutions company, we offer mobility scooter rentals, sales, and repair services for mobility scooters, power chairs, wheelchairs, and more. With more than 2,500 rental locations across North America, we can help you find the perfect rental scooter for your traveling needs. For those looking for a permanent solution, our online store has hundreds of options to explore.
Book now to rent a mobility scooter or buy scooters from the Scootaround Store today!
Buying or Renting Mobility Scooters FAQs
Before investing in a mobility scooter or renting a device from Scootaround, consider these frequently asked questions.
1. How Are Rental Rates Determined?
Scootaround's prices depend on your destination, rental duration, protection policy options, and requested pickup and drop-off points. To receive a rental quote, you can fill out our easy online form.
2. How Far in Advance Should You Book Mobility Scooter Rentals?
In an emergency, we aim to get you the device you need as fast as possible. For planned land-based rentals — such as if you need a scooter after surgery or for a vacation — we recommend contacting us at least 48 hours in advance. For cruise-based rentals, aim to book your scooter a minimum of five days before your trip. You can book rentals up to a year in advance. The sooner, the better!
3. How Do You Take Care of a Scooter After Purchasing It?
You can likely perform basic scooter maintenance from home! Tasks include protecting your scooter from the elements, cleaning your scooter, checking the tire pressure, checking the battery, and examining your tire treads. We also recommend annual scooter inspections from a trained technician. You can read more tips in our scooter maintenance guide.
4. Does Scootaround Allow Customers to Read Reviews?
Yes! You can read reviews and success stories from our customers on our Reviews page.
