Wheelchair Side Bags

Why Is Side Storage Useful on a Wheelchair?

A wheelchair side bag keeps essential personal items within direct arm’s reach of the seated user rather than behind the backrest. For anyone who wants their phone, keys, purse, medication or a drink without twisting round or asking for help, the side of the chair is where storage matters most. Wheelchair side bags sit on or beside the armrest, within easy reach of a seated hand.

That convenience comes with a design challenge. The side of a wheelchair is also where the wheels turn, where hands push the rims, and where the user slides across during transfers. A poorly chosen side bag can rub on the tyres, catch the user’s fingers, or block a transfer to bed or car. This guide explains how to choose and fit one so it helps rather than hinders.

What Counts as a Wheelchair Side Bag?

The term covers several shapes, all designed to hang at the side of the chair rather than behind it.

• Armrest bags drape over or strap to the armrest, with pockets hanging on the outside, the inside or both.
• Side pouches are smaller pockets that clip to the frame below the armrest or to the side guard.
• Wheelchair organisers have several compartments for small items such as phone, glasses, tissues and a pen.
• Saddle-style bags have two pouches joined by a strap that sits over the armrest.

For chairs with removable or flip-up armrests, check the bag attaches in a way that still lets the armrest move. Our page on the wheelchair armrest bag looks at those styles in more detail.

Reaching It While Seated

The whole point of a side bag is easy access, so think about which hand the user favours and how far they can comfortably reach. An inside pocket, between the armrest and the user’s hip, is closest but can press against the leg if it is overfilled. An outside pocket is easier to open but may need a slight lean. Top-opening pockets with a wide mouth are easier for people with limited grip than narrow zips. Magnetic or hook-and-loop closures can be simpler than zips, though zips are more secure.

Keep the items used most often in the pocket closest to hand. A phone in a clear window pocket can be seen and even used without taking it out.

How Do You Keep a Side Bag Clear of Wheelchair Wheels?

Securing the bag closely to the armrest prevents straps or pockets from brushing against rotating wheels and push rims. A bag that hangs too low or bulges outwards can rub against the rear tyre, slowing the chair and wearing both the bag and the tyre. On a self-propelling chair, it can also get in the way of the push rims, catching the user’s hand or knuckles. On a power chair, it must not interfere with the joystick or its cable.

• Check the gap between the bag and the wheel when the bag is full, not just when it is empty.
• Choose a bag with a firm back panel, which stops it sagging into the wheel.
• Avoid dangling straps, toggles or cords that could wrap around a wheel or axle.
• Recheck after a trip over rough ground, as bags can slip down.

Transfers and Armrest Movement

Many wheelchair users move sideways between their chair and a bed, sofa, car seat or toilet. A bulky side bag on the transfer side can get in the way, and if the armrest needs to flip up or come off, the bag has to come with it or be unclipped first. Some users fit a bag only on the side they do not transfer from. Others choose a slim, easily detachable side pouch that can be lifted off in a second.

If transfers are difficult, an occupational therapist can advise on the safest method, and on how accessories should be arranged to keep the transfer space clear.

Left, Right or Both Sides?

Deciding where to hang a wheelchair side bag is more personal than it first appears. Most people put it on the side of their stronger or dominant hand, so opening zips and lifting items out is easy. If the user transfers from one particular side, the bag usually goes on the other. Some people prefer a matching pair, one for personal items and one for things like a water bottle or medication, which also balances the load so a light chair runs straight. Try the bag on each side for a day or two before settling on a position, and ask a carer whether it gets in their way when they help with transfers or folding.

How Do Wheelchair Side Bags Attach to the Frame?

Most side bags secure to the wheelchair armrest using adjustable hook-and-loop straps, quick-release buckles or sturdy clips. Hook-and-loop is adjustable and quick but can wear over time; buckles are secure and easy to undo with one hand; clips allow a bag to be moved between chairs. Whatever the method, the bag should sit firmly without twisting, and the straps should not rub on the user’s arm or pinch clothing. On chairs with padded armrests, check the straps do not crush the padding or cover a control.

Side Storage on Power Chairs

On a powered wheelchair, the joystick usually sits at the end of one armrest, so that side has less room for a bag and its straps must not press on the control or its cable. Many power chair users put their main pouch on the opposite armrest, or use a slim organiser that attaches below the joystick mount. Check the bag does not cover a charging socket or any buttons on the armrest, and that it will not snag when the armrest swings back for transfers.

What to Carry, and How Much

Side bags are for small, frequently used items. Keep the load light, since weight on one side can make a light manual chair pull slightly to that side and makes the bag more likely to sag. Heavier shopping belongs in a bag behind the chair or under the seat; our guide to the wheelchair bag under the seat covers that option, and our wheelchair backpack page looks at larger bags for the push handles.

Consider security too. A side bag is visible and easy to reach, which is convenient for the user and also for opportunist thieves. Keep valuables in a zipped inner pocket, and move them to a less visible spot in crowded places.

Side Bags and Travel

On buses, trains and in taxis, a side bag keeps tickets, a phone and a travel card within reach while the chair is secured. The government’s guide to transport for disabled people links to advice on buses, trains, taxis and planes. When flying, remove the bag and any loose items before the chair goes into the hold.

Other Small Add-Ons

A side bag often works alongside other small accessories. A wheelchair cup holder keeps a drink upright without filling a pocket, and a tray gives a flat surface for eating or writing. For an overview of all the bag positions, see our guide to the bag for a wheelchair.

Materials and Care

Water-resistant fabrics keep contents dry in showers, and wipe-clean linings make spills easier to deal with. Reinforced stitching where the straps join the bag helps it last. Empty the bag regularly, shake out crumbs and grit, and check the straps and fastenings for wear.

Before Choosing

• Can the user open it and reach inside comfortably while seated?
• Does it stay clear of the tyres and push rims when full?
• Will it block transfers or stop an armrest lifting?
• Does it fasten firmly without covering controls or padding?
• Is there a secure pocket for valuables?