E-Scooter Travel Guide: How I Explore New Cities by Rental Scooter

Recently updated with the latest city rules and bans (Paris, Madrid, Melbourne, London, Hong Kong, Singapore), which scooter apps still operate, helmet and age rules, and airline battery limits have all been re-checked. Rules and prices change often, so always check the official city sites and the operators’ apps before you ride.

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 Bike Share – 600 bikes at 51 docking stations – launched in 2010 with high hopes but was shut down in November 2019 after years of underwhelming ridership. (Melbourne has since ended its shared e-scooter scheme too – more on that below.)

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.

The industry has shaken out a lot since then. Bird filed for bankruptcy in December 2023 and re-emerged in 2024 under a new parent company, Third Lane Mobility; LINK (Superpedestrian) shut down at the end of 2023; Tier merged with Dott in 2024 and now runs under the Dott brand; and Beam merged with Neuron in 2025. Today the names you’ll see most as a traveller are Lime, Dott, Voi, Bird and Neuron/Beam, with services across Europe, North America, Australia and parts of Asia.

E-scooters have changed the way people, both locals and travelers, navigate cities. For travellers, they’ve become a quick, fun way to cover the gaps between metro stops and landmarks. 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’m going to share my own e-scooter experience. Join me as I dive into the world of e-scooter travel – practical tips, the rules that catch travellers out, and insights to help you make the most of it wherever your travels take you.

Where is e-scooter sharing available?

Today, 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 Bans or Strict Limits

• Paris, France: Parisians voted 89% against shared e-scooters in an April 2023 consultation, and the free-floating rental scooters (Lime, Dott and Tier) were removed by 31 August 2023. Private e-scooters are still allowed, and the city’s bike-sharing makes cycling a great alternative.
• Madrid, Spain: the city revoked the licences of Lime, Dott and Tier in September 2024, and rental scooters had to leave the streets by late October 2024. The city said it won’t grant new licences.
• Melbourne, Australia: the City of Melbourne ended its shared e-scooter scheme on 24 September 2024. Shared e-bikes are still available (up to 500), and privately owned e-scooters remain legal in Victoria.
• London, UK: rental e-scooters are legal only as part of the official trial, now extended to 31 May 2028. They’re run by Lime and Voi in 11 boroughs (including Westminster, Camden, Southwark, Lambeth and the City of London), with mandatory parking bays and a 12.5 mph speed limit. Private e-scooters remain illegal on public roads and pavements, and you can’t take any e-scooter on TfL services. I still prefer London’s Santander Cycles for sightseeing.
• Singapore: since November 2019, e-scooters are banned from footpaths. They’re only allowed on cycling paths and park connectors, and shared scooter operators need an LTA licence, so you’ll rarely see rental scooters as a visitor.
• Hong Kong: e-scooters count as “motor vehicles” under the Road Traffic Ordinance, and the Transport Department warns that riding one on carriageways, footpaths or cycle tracks may be an offence. There’s no rental scheme. The government plans to legislate so that certified devices can use designated cycle tracks in future.
• Sydney, Australia: shared e-scooters aren’t available in Sydney. NSW only permits them in designated trial areas.

Cities Where I’ve Found E-Scooters Easy to Use

• Milan, Italy: Milan embraced e-scooter sharing early, and on my visit they were a fast way to hop between landmarks. Bird, Dott and Lime operate here. Italian rules are strict: you must be at least 14, a helmet is compulsory for every rider, the speed limit is 20 km/h (6 km/h in pedestrian areas), and riding on pavements is banned.
• Brisbane, Australia: one of Australia’s best-integrated systems, with Lime and Neuron scooters and plenty of riverside paths (see my Brisbane e-scooter guide). Queensland now requires riders to be 16+ and hold at least a learner licence (overseas licences are recognised), and helmets are compulsory.
• Auckland, New Zealand: a flat, scooter-friendly waterfront (my Auckland e-scooter routes). Check the council’s licensed operators before you go (currently Lime and Flamingo).
• Tokyo, Japan: since July 2023, compliant e-scooters can be ridden without a licence by anyone 16 or older. They’re capped at 20 km/h, and wearing a helmet is an “effort obligation” (strongly encouraged rather than enforced).
• Seoul, South Korea: shared “kickboards” are everywhere, but you need to be 16+ and hold a motorised-bicycle licence or higher, helmets are required and pavement riding is banned. Seoul has also started “scooter-free streets”, such as Hongdae’s Red Road.

How to Check Before You Go

Check the operators’ websites and apps: Lime, Dott, Voi, Bird and Neuron all list the cities they serve. Remember that Tier is now part of Dott, so old Tier accounts and links won’t work.

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. 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.

E-Scooter Rules at a Glance

City	Rental e-scooters?	Key rules for visitors
Paris	No – banned since September 2023	Private scooters allowed; use bike-share
Madrid	No – licences revoked in 2024	No new licences planned
Melbourne	No – scheme ended September 2024	Shared e-bikes still available
London	Yes – official trial only	Lime and Voi in 11 boroughs, 12.5 mph, private scooters illegal
Singapore	Rare	Not on footpaths; cycling paths and park connectors only
Hong Kong	No	Riding on roads, footpaths or cycle tracks may be an offence
Milan	Yes	Bird, Dott, Lime; 14+, helmet compulsory, 20 km/h
Brisbane	Yes	Lime, Neuron; 16+ with at least a learner licence; helmet compulsory
Tokyo	Yes	16+, no licence, 20 km/h, helmet strongly encouraged
Seoul	Yes	16+, motorised-bicycle licence needed, helmet required

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.

Can I Bring My Own E-Scooter on a Plane?

Usually not – and that’s a big reason I rent. Airlines follow IATA’s dangerous-goods rules, which treat e-scooters, hoverboards and e-unicycles as portable electronic devices (not mobility aids), judged by the battery’s watt-hour (Wh) rating:

• Up to 100 Wh: allowed in checked or carry-on baggage without airline approval.
• 101–160 Wh: allowed only with the airline’s approval.
• Over 160 Wh: forbidden in both checked and carry-on baggage.

Most adult e-scooters have batteries far above 160 Wh – for example, a common 36 V, 7.8 Ah pack works out at about 281 Wh (volts × amp-hours) – so they can’t fly at all. Check the Wh rating printed on your battery and your airline’s own rules (many are stricter), and remember that London’s TfL also bans e-scooters on its trains and buses, even folded.

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. 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: if the scooter has a helmet lock (common in Brisbane), follow the app to release it. If it doesn’t, bring your own – helmets are compulsory in places like Italy, Queensland and Seoul. Adjust it properly, place both feet on the deck and get ready to ride.
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 pay an unlocking fee plus a per-minute rate, both shown in the app before you start – on my rides these were roughly US$1 to unlock and US$0.15–0.40 a minute, but prices vary a lot by city and have crept up since, so check the app for the current rates in your city.

The availability and pricing of passes depend on the provider. For example, on my trip to Brisbane, Neuron offered a one-day pass with 90 minutes of riding for just US$7.25 – about 70% cheaper than paying per minute. Pass prices change often, so check the app’s “passes” section for the current deal. It’s also worth looking out for promotions that can save you money during your trip.

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 – in many places it’s the law, not just good advice (Italy, Queensland and South Korea, for example). Knee and elbow pads are a bonus if you’re new to riding.

E-Scooter Laws, Helmets and Age Limits: 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: rental scooters are usually capped at 20–25 km/h – 20 km/h in Milan and Tokyo, 25 km/h in Queensland, 12.5 mph (20 km/h) in London – and many cities set lower limits in pedestrian zones (6 km/h in Milan’s pedestrian areas, 12 km/h on Queensland footpaths).
• 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.
• Check the Age and Licence Rules: minimum ages are typically 14–18. Italy requires riders to be 14+, Japan and Queensland 16+, and Queensland and South Korea also require a driving licence. In London, the rental trial requires a provisional or full driving licence.
• Never Ride After Drinking: in Queensland, for example, the limit for e-scooter riders is the same 0.05 blood alcohol level as for drivers.

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 a New City on an E-Scooter

Exploring a new city on an e-scooter is an exciting way to see the sights while cruising through its vibrant streets. The scooters I rode in Brisbane had a handlebar phone mount that doubled as a wireless charger – a lifesaver for navigation. Not every fleet has one, so if yours doesn’t, keep your phone mounted or in a pocket: in Queensland, for example, holding your phone while riding is illegal, but a handlebar mount for GPS is allowed.

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:

• Usually no driver’s licence needed – in most cities you just sign up in the app and go. Exceptions are growing, though: Queensland, South Korea and the UK trials all require a licence, so check before you ride.
• 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.
• Easy to control – the low speed limits make scooters easy to handle once you’ve practised for a few minutes, but they’re not safer than walking: always ride defensively, use bike lanes and wear a helmet.
• 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 almost around the clock – most apps run late into the night, but some cities limit hours or speeds after dark, so check the app.

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.
5. Don’t plan to bring your own – airline battery limits (160 Wh maximum, and 101–160 Wh only with approval) rule out most e-scooters, so renting at your destination is almost always the way to go.

E-Scooter Travel FAQ

Can I take an e-scooter on a plane?

Usually not. Under IATA rules, devices with lithium batteries over 160 Wh are forbidden in both checked and carry-on bags, and those between 101 and 160 Wh need airline approval. Most adult e-scooters have batteries well above 160 Wh.

Which cities have banned rental e-scooters?

Paris (since September 2023), Madrid (licences revoked in 2024) and the City of Melbourne (since 24 September 2024) have all ended rental e-scooter schemes. Hong Kong has no rental scheme, and e-scooters can’t legally be used on its roads, footpaths or cycle tracks.

Do I need a helmet to ride a rental e-scooter?

It depends on the city. Helmets are compulsory in Italy, Queensland and South Korea; in Japan they’re strongly encouraged. I always wear one.

Which e-scooter apps should I download?

Lime, Dott (which absorbed Tier in 2024), Voi, Bird and Neuron cover most cities. Check which operators are licensed in your destination before you travel.

My City Guides by Scooter and Bike

• Brisbane by e-scooter – riverside paths from South Bank to New Farm
• Auckland e-scooter routes – CBD, waterfront and Tamaki Drive
• Milan in 4 days – where I used scooters between landmarks
• London by Santander Cycles – a one-day bike itinerary
• E-bikes in the United Kingdom
• From Warsaw’s Communist Legacy to Krakow’s New Heart
• Budapest: Beer Spa, Ruin Bars and The Wonderful Gems

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 any new rules or apps in your city. Don’t forget to like, share, and interact—I’m looking forward to hearing all about your adventures and discoveries around the world!