Amy is a Permobil wheelchair user. This article was contributed by her support worker who recently travelled with her around Europe. They share their experience about travelling with a BATEC below.
This trip was unlike any we’d taken before. The difference? The Batec.
From the moment we arrived at the airport, everything felt easier. I had my hands
free to carry bags and open doors, while Amy kept pace beside me. No more juggling
luggage and pushing a wheelchair. Instead, I could manage the suitcases, and Amy
could move freely, confidently, and independently.
The Batec gave her control. She could choose her speed, navigate her own path,
and no longer had to rely on me to get around. That shift was powerful, not just for
her, but for me too. I wasn’t worrying about sore shoulders or aching feet from
pushing all day. And Amy wasn’t feeling guilty about the physical toll it took on me.
One of my favourite moments was in a wide open space. I encouraged Amy to pick
up speed, and off she went, zooming ahead with a huge smile on her face. I caught
up eventually, but that image of her joy and freedom stayed with me.
The Batec didn’t just change how we travelled, it changed what we could do. We
explored cities in the summer heat, sometimes in 30+ degree temperatures. One
day, I clocked over 22,000 steps. That kind of day wouldn’t have been possible
without the Batec. If I’d been pushing Amy, we’d have needed more breaks, shorter
outings, and probably a physiotherapist when we got home.
Physically, it was a game changer. No sore back, no kicking stabilising wheels, no
pushing up hills. Yes, I had to stay alert, watching for obstacles, tight corners, steep
ramps, and distracted pedestrians but I’d take that over physical strain any day. And
emotionally? It felt more relaxed. More fun. Less like a “support role” and more like
travelling with a companion. We could walk side by side, chat easily, and even split
up in museums or shops. That sense of equality made a big difference.
There were moments I thought, “This wouldn’t have happened without the Batec.”
Like the long days out, the spontaneous detours, the freedom to explore without
limits.
If someone asked me whether they should travel with a Batec, I’d say - Do it. It’s a
game changer. It gives freedom to the user and relief to the support person. It
transforms the experience for both of you.
This story is shared as part of the beyond community, which brings together people with different experiences, interests and ways of participating. While it references a specific product, the aim is to show travel can be possible - we just need to work out how, together.
Everyone’s story is different. If you would like to share yours, or be part of the beyond community, we’d love to hear from you - fill in our form here.
