Bike sharing has long been a part of urban transportation worldwide. While the idea is great in theory, in practice, many bike-sharing programs have struggled due to issues such as inadequate infrastructure, high maintenance costs, and low user adoption. Safety concerns have also played a role in limiting their success. For example, Melbourne’s bike-share program, launched with high hopes, was ultimately phased out in 2019 due to underwhelming ridership numbers.

Despite these challenges, innovation in micro-mobility has continued to evolve. The latest wave of this evolution is electric scooter sharing—a concept that started gaining traction about a decade ago but has truly taken off in the past few years.

The e-scooter sharing revolution began in 2017 when companies like Bird and Lime introduced dockless electric kick scooters in California, USA. The convenience, affordability, and accessibility of e-scooters quickly captured public interest, leading to rapid expansion. By 2018, Bird had expanded to over 100 cities, and competitors soon followed. Today, there are over 60 e-scooter companies operating worldwide, including major players such as Bird, Lime, Neuron, LINK, and Beam, with services spanning across Europe, North America, Australia, and parts of Asia, including Japan and South Korea.

E-scooters have changed the way people, both locals and travelers, navigate cities. After the COVID-19 pandemic, travelers returned to the roads, seeking safe, efficient, and fun ways to explore urban destinations. E-scooters quickly became one of my favorite ways to get around, providing an effortless means of transportation that combines convenience with a touch of adventure.

In my travels, I’ve had the opportunity to experience e-scooter sharing firsthand in multiple cities, including Milan, Brisbane, and Auckland. Each destination presents its own unique challenges and advantages when it comes to scooter travel, from dedicated lanes and smooth pathways to regulatory hurdles and differing attitudes toward micro-mobility.

Now, I am going to share my experience with the e-scooter.

Join me as I dive deeper into the world of e-scooter travel, sharing my experiences, practical tips, and insights to help you make the most of this modern transportation trend wherever your travels take you.

Where is e-scooter sharing available?

As of 2025, the landscape of e-scooter-friendly cities continues to evolve, with different cities updating their policies and services. While many urban areas have embraced e-scooters, others remain restrictive or are still reviewing their approach. Because regulations and availability change frequently, it’s important for travelers to research before planning to use e-scooters in any given city. Below is a brief overview of how different cities handle e-scooter sharing, followed by useful steps to check the latest information before your trip.

Cities with E-Scooter Restrictions or Limitations:

• Paris, France: Once a leader in e-scooter sharing, Paris banned free-floating rental e-scooters in 2023 due to safety concerns and misuse. However, personal e-scooters and bike-sharing programs remain widely available, making cycling a great alternative for getting around the city.
• London, United Kingdom: London has limited e-scooter sharing to select boroughs such as Westminster, Southwark, and Camden as part of a trial program. Private e-scooters remain illegal on public roads. However, the city has an extensive and well-developed bike-sharing network, which I personally use whenever I visit. London’s Santander Cycles (commonly known as “Boris Bikes”) provide a fantastic way to explore the city at your own pace.
• Singapore: While Singapore allows personal e-scooters, shared scooter programs are heavily regulated and mostly unavailable in public spaces due to safety concerns. The city has restricted scooter use to designated cycling paths, making them less accessible compared to other major urban centers.
• Hong Kong: Currently, Hong Kong does not permit e-scooter sharing programs due to strict traffic laws that classify them as motor vehicles requiring registration.

E-Scooter-Friendly Cities:

• Milan, Italy: Milan has embraced e-scooter sharing, and during my recent visit, I found them to be a convenient and efficient way to explore the city. With multiple providers like Lime and Dott, riders can easily access scooters across the city, from historical landmarks to modern districts.
• Sydney & Brisbane, Australia: Brisbane has one of the most well-integrated e-scooter systems in Australia, with widespread coverage and dedicated scooter lanes. Sydney has also been expanding its shared e-scooter programs, particularly in designated trial zones, making micromobility a viable option in certain areas.
• Tokyo, Japan & Seoul, South Korea: Both cities have seen significant growth in e-scooter sharing services. Tokyo enforces strict traffic rules, requiring helmets and designated parking zones, while Seoul has built an extensive network of rental scooters integrated with public transportation systems.

Planning Your E-Scooter Experience:

To determine if your destination city offers e-scooter-sharing services, consider the following steps:

1. Online Research: Conduct a web search using the city’s name along with keywords like “e-scooter sharing” or “micromobility services.” This can lead you to official city transportation pages or news articles detailing available services.
2. Check E-Scooter Company Websites: Visit the websites of major e-scooter providers such as Lime or Bird. These platforms often list the cities where they operate and provide detailed information about local services.
3. Download the App: Once you’ve identified a service operating in your destination city, download the corresponding app. This will allow you to view the service area, locate available scooters, and understand any local guidelines or restrictions.

In my travels, I’ve found that while e-scooter coverage in cities like Brisbane and Auckland is generally extensive, there are limitations. For instance, in Brisbane, riding an e-scooter to Mount Coot-tha Botanical Gardens isn’t permitted. However, I was able to ride as far as the corner of Toowong Memorial Park, leaving me with a manageable 10-to-15-minute walk to the gardens. Similarly, in Milan, I relied heavily on e-scooters to get from one landmark to another, making sightseeing much faster and more enjoyable.

By taking these steps, you can seamlessly integrate e-scooter travel into your itinerary, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable urban exploration experience.

How to find an e-scooter?

Renting an e-scooter is a straightforward process, and everything happens through a mobile app. Since e-scooter sharing services charge based on the minutes you use, it’s important to understand how the system works before you start riding.

How Does It Work?

Using an e-scooter is as simple as:

1. 1. Find a Scooter: Open the mobile app, and it will display a map with available e-scooters nearby.
   2. Check the Scooter’s Status: Tap on a scooter icon to see details such as battery life, estimated range, and condition.
   3. Reserve (Optional): Some apps allow you to reserve a scooter in advance, though be aware that some services start charging immediately upon reservation, while others offer a grace period.
   4. Unlock & Ride: Once you reach the scooter, scan the QR code on the handlebar to unlock it.
   5. Hop On & Get Ready: Follow the app instructions to unlock the helmet if provided. Adjust it properly for safety, place both feet on the platform, and get ready to start riding.
   6. Ride to Your Destination: Travel from point A to point B while following local traffic rules and e-scooter regulations.
   7. Park & End the Ride: Once you arrive, park the scooter in a designated area and end your trip through the app. Ensure you follow city-specific parking rules to avoid additional charges.

E-scooters are widely available in many cities, making them easy to find.

While demand can vary, I’ve rarely had trouble locating one, even in busy areas. By following these steps, you can easily integrate e-scooter travel into your daily exploration.

What are the charges?

E-scooter rental fees vary depending on the service provider and the city. Generally, you are charged a base unlocking fee (usually around $1) and a per-minute rate (ranging from $0.15 to $0.40). However, if you plan to use an e-scooter multiple times a day, purchasing a day or multi-day pass can be a much more cost-effective option.

The availability and pricing of passes depend on the provider. For example, when I was in Brisbane, Neuron offered a one-day pass with 90 minutes of total usage for just US$7.25 per day—an incredible 70% discount compared to per-minute pricing! Always check the app for special deals, promotions, or passes that can save you money during your trip.

E-scooters are widely available in many cities, making them easy to find. While demand can vary, I’ve rarely had trouble locating one, even in busy areas. By following these steps, you can easily integrate e-scooter travel into your daily exploration.

How to use the app after you hop on your e-scooter?

Once you start your rental, your app will display your current location on the map. This feature is crucial because it helps you navigate the city and stay informed about designated riding zones, restricted areas, and parking spots.

• Speed Restrictions & No-Ride Zones: Some pedestrian areas or city zones enforce speed limits or prohibit riding altogether. Your app will notify you if you enter a slow-speed or no-ride zone, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
• Restricted Parking Areas: Not all areas allow you to park your e-scooter. The app will highlight permitted parking zones, preventing fines or additional charges for improper parking.
• Trip Summary & Cost Tracking: Throughout your ride, the app keeps track of the duration and estimated fare, so you always know how much you are spending.

By keeping an eye on the app while riding, you can ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience while making the most of your e-scooter rental.

How to ride an e-scooter?

Riding an e-scooter is relatively easy, even for beginners. However, maintaining balance and following best practices will help ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.

• Mount the Scooter Properly: Place one foot on the deck and keep your knees slightly bent for stability.
• Start Moving: Use your other foot to push off the ground while gently pressing the throttle to accelerate.
• Maintain Control: Keep both hands on the handlebars and distribute your weight evenly. Lean slightly forward while riding for better control.
• Navigating Obstacles: When approaching ramps, bumps, or uneven surfaces, bend your knees and lower your body to maintain balance.
• Braking Safely: Release the throttle to slow down naturally or use the handbrake if necessary. Always be prepared to stop by placing one foot on the ground.
• Helmet & Safety Gear: Always wear a helmet, and if available, additional protective gear like knee and elbow pads.

What are the laws for riding an e-scooter and is it safe?

To ride an e-scooter safely, it’s crucial to follow local traffic laws and respect pedestrians and other road users.

• Follow the Rules of the Road: Treat your e-scooter like a bicycle—ride in bike lanes where available, obey traffic lights, and yield to pedestrians.
• Observe Speed Limits: Most e-scooter rentals have a maximum speed of around 20kph (12mph), but some areas enforce lower limits, especially in pedestrian-heavy zones.
• Stay Alert: Watch out for pedestrians, pets, and unexpected obstacles. Avoid distractions like using your phone while riding.
• One Person Per Scooter: Never ride with a passenger, as most e-scooters have a weight limit of around 100kg.
• Respect No-Ride Zones: Some areas prohibit e-scooter use. These are clearly marked in your app and should be avoided.

By riding responsibly and following local laws, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience while using e-scooters as a convenient mode of transport in various cities worldwide.

How to navigate with your e-scooter when you exploring a new city?

Exploring a new city on an e-scooter is an exciting way to see the sights while cruising through its vibrant streets. The e-scooter is equipped with a convenient phone mount, allowing you to easily place your phone and navigate using your map. What’s even better? The mount doubles as a wireless charger, so your phone stays powered up while you’re on the go—no more worrying about losing navigation mid-ride!

For a quick idea of timing: a 3-kilometer journey typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on the road conditions and how friendly the traffic lights are. Navigating through the city with Google Maps is a breeze, making it easy to zip from one landmark to another, whether you’re heading to key attractions or trendy neighborhoods.

The only thing to keep an eye on is your scooter’s battery, but that’s usually not a big deal. If it runs low, simply find another scooter nearby to swap. Many companies have staff who maintain and recharge the scooters around the city, so you’ll rarely find yourself stranded. It’s the ultimate combination of convenience and freedom for urban explorers!

Why is it an ideal way to explore a new city on an e-scooter?

Exploring a city with e-scooter sharing is a game-changer for urban adventurers, offering a fresh, hassle-free way to navigate and experience the sights. The advantages are undeniable, and here’s why:

• No driver’s license required – You don’t need to worry about licensing or complex paperwork; just hop on and go!
• No need to know how to ride a bike – Unlike cycling, e-scooters are easy to use, even if you’ve never ridden a bike before. Just step on, push off, and you’re good to go!
• No parking worries – Forget about circling around for a parking spot. You can park your e-scooter right where you’re done, without the hassle of parking fees or tight spots.
• Avoid traffic jams – Skip the frustration of sitting in traffic. E-scooters allow you to zip through city streets quickly, saving time and energy.
• Safer than driving or biking – With a scooter, you’re more visible and less vulnerable compared to biking or driving. Plus, the lower speed makes it easier to stay in control.
• Low-cost – It’s a budget-friendly way to explore. No expensive rental fees like cars, and no fuel costs either.
• Eco-friendly – E-scooters are powered by electricity, so you can enjoy the city without contributing to pollution or adding to traffic congestion.
• Available 24/7 – Whether you’re out for a morning ride or a late-night adventure, e-scooters are there when you need them—just pick one up and go!

What are the limitations of e-scooter sharing?

While e-scooter sharing offers plenty of perks, there are a few limitations to keep in mind as you plan your adventures. Here’s a breakdown of what you might want to consider:

• Best for solo or small group travelers – E-scooters are designed for individual riders, so if you’re traveling solo or with a small group, they’re perfect for getting around quickly. However, if you’re traveling with family or a larger group, it could be tricky to coordinate multiple scooters and keep everyone together. Imagine trying to enjoy the city while everyone is scattered on their own scooters—staying connected can be a challenge!
• Not ideal for family travelers – If you’re with kids or have a family in tow, e-scooters might not be the most practical option. Managing multiple scooters with young ones or ensuring safety could be more hassle than it’s worth. Plus, many scooter services have minimum age or height requirements, which could leave younger children unable to participate.
• Costly for large groups – While e-scooters are affordable for individual use, the cost can add up quickly if you’re traveling in a large group. For example, if you’re with a group of friends or family, you’ll need to rent several scooters, and the costs can exceed other forms of transport like public transit or taxis. It might not be the best option for a budget-conscious group.
• Slower than driving – Although e-scooters are quick for short trips, they’re still slower than driving, especially in areas with speed limits or heavy traffic. If you’re in a rush or need to travel long distances, relying on an e-scooter might slow you down. Picture trying to reach a meeting or catch a flight—you’ll definitely get there faster in a car!

Some tips for you to plan your trip with an e-scooter

Before you head out on your e-scooter adventure, here are some helpful tips to make your trip even smoother:

1. Do your research – Check out the coverage and availability of e-scooter services in the city you’re visiting. Not all areas might have e-scooters available, and some neighborhoods might have limited access, so it’s best to plan ahead.
2. Plot your route – E-scooters are perfect for short distances and quick stops. It’s a good idea to map out your route so you can make the most of your time exploring a specific area, whether you’re hopping between museums or discovering hidden gems around town.
3. Mind the time – E-scooter rentals charge you by the minute. So, when you stop to take a photo or rest for a while, remember to “end your trip.” Even if you’re only paused for a few minutes, you’ll still be charged for the time you’ve rented the scooter. If you’re stopping at multiple places, these charges can add up quickly, so it’s best to end your ride, and then hop back on when you’re ready to go again.
4. Use the day pass or multi-day pass – If you plan to use the e-scooter throughout the day, look into purchasing a day pass or multi-day pass. It’s a cost-effective way to save money if you’re going to be riding frequently.

I’d love to hear your experiences!

Have you used e-scooters to explore a new city? What cities are you excited to try this in? Let me know in the comments below, and feel free to share any tips or updates you’ve noticed, especially with new developments in 2025 and beyond. Don’t forget to like, share, and interact—I’m looking forward to hearing all about your adventures and discoveries around the world!