Published 6 July 2026
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A transit wheelchair has small rear wheels and is pushed by someone else, which makes it light, compact and easy to fold into a car boot. It is the go-to for days out, hospital visits and travel when the user does not need to wheel themselves. Here is how to choose one, and four we rate.
How to choose a transit wheelchair
Transit or self-propelled. Transit chairs have small back wheels and must be pushed by an attendant. If the user wants to move themselves, they need a self-propelled wheelchair with large rear wheels instead.
Weight of the chair. If it goes in and out of a car, every kilo counts. Lightweight aluminium chairs around 12 to 15 kg are much easier to lift than older steel ones.
Seat width. Measure across the hips while seated and add a little room. A seat that is too narrow is uncomfortable, too wide is harder to push and get through doorways.
Weight limit and tyres. Check the user weight limit, and note that puncture-proof solid tyres save hassle compared with pneumatic ones.
The best transit wheelchairs
Best overall: Days Lightweight Folding Wheelchair
Days is one of the most trusted names in UK mobility, and this folding transit chair is light, sturdy and comfortable, with the build quality you want for regular use.
The catch: it costs more than an unbranded chair, but you are paying for a proven, well-supported product. Around £165.
Best value: Angel Mobility AMW004 Lightweight Transit Wheelchair
Very highly rated by buyers and lighter on the wallet than the big brands. A light aluminium folding chair that covers the basics well for trips and appointments.
The catch: a smaller brand than Days, so service and spares are less established. Around £115.
Best budget: Angel Mobility Folding Transport Wheelchair
About the cheapest way to get a folding transit chair for occasional use, and light enough to lift into a car.
The catch: it is basic, so it suits the odd day out rather than all-day, every-day use. Around £70.
Best for travel: Lightweight Folding Travel Wheelchair
A travel-friendly folding chair designed to pack down small, which suits holidays, airports and anyone short on boot space.
The catch: compact travel chairs can have a firmer, more basic seat, so add a cushion for longer trips. Around £150.
Prices are a guide and change often, so check the live price on Amazon before you buy.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a transit and a self-propelled wheelchair?
A transit wheelchair has small rear wheels and is pushed by an attendant. A self-propelled wheelchair has large rear wheels with hand rims so the user can move themselves. Choose transit if someone will always push, and self-propelled if the user wants independence.
How do I measure the right seat width?
Measure the widest point across the hips while sitting, then add roughly 2 to 4 cm for comfort and clothing. Too narrow pinches, too wide makes pushing and doorways harder.
How heavy are lightweight wheelchairs?
Lightweight aluminium transit chairs are typically around 12 to 15 kg, which most people can lift into a car boot. Steel chairs are heavier and harder to handle.
Can I get a wheelchair on the NHS?
Sometimes, through your local NHS wheelchair service after a referral, though there can be a wait and eligibility varies. Many people buy their own for trips and back-up.
If the user wants to wheel themselves, see our self-propelled wheelchairs guide and all our wheelchair guides.
Published 6 July 2026
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