As our father’s get older and experience more debilitating conditions, it is not uncommon to turn to a wheelchair to increase independence and mobility. While people using wheelchairs for the first time have to get accustomed to the equipment, one thing about wheelchairs that instantly makes life easier is the fact that they can hold just about anything. We hang everything from jackets to backpacks in and around our wheelchairs. Sometimes it can even be hard to stop others from unloading all their belongings onto our chairs! Indeed, wheelchairs were made to put stuff on, simple as that.

However, storing belongings on a wheelchair neatly and appropriately is an art form all its own. Traditional tote bags fall off easily, and coats and jackets get caught in the wind and blow away. Here are some gift ideas that will allow the father in your family to carry things securely on his manual wheelchair, power chair or scooter.

Side pockets are popular for a reason

SideKick Wheelchair Pouch

Perhaps the handiest bag used on wheelchairs is the ever-popular side pocket. Side pockets are very useful for putting away those small items we just don’t feel like holding while we are trying to do other things. Often before we know it, we have actually collected way too much stuff in our side pockets. The SideKick Wheelchair Pouch holds quite a bit and would make a great gift for Dad this year. The SideKick Wheelchair Pouch uses Velcro-like hook and loop to attach either outside or inside the armrest.

Armrest Pocket Bag

Another side pocket option is the Armrest Pocket Bag, which can also attach outside or inside the armrest and is made not to interfere with wheels on manual chairs with high wheels.

A backpack made for just what you need

Jazz Wheelchair Backpack

Another area of wheelchair item loading is the backpack or carrying bag. Backpacks are definitely one of the most tricky objects to use with wheelchairs. Traditional backpacks simply do not come with the appropriate straps that would be ideal for hanging on the backs of wheelchairs. They tend to slip off, get caught on wheels and interfere or even damage expensive wheelchair equipment, such as headrests that are mounted on the back of power chairs. The Jazz Wheelchair Backpack is perfect for all these situations. It features different strapping options that will allow your father to strap the bag snugly around the corners of the back of the chair. Having a backpack on the back of a wheelchair is indispensable for carrying everything from books to medicines and medical supplies.

Bags to fit your father’s medical needs

E Size Oxygen Tank Holder

Speaking of medical supplies, there’s nothing like having a tote bag made especially for certain health needs. Those who have COPD or other respiratory conditions may find an E Size Oxygen Tank Holder useful. No more getting out of breath carrying those heavy oxygen tanks, thus defeating the purpose for which they were made. With an oxygen tank holder, your father will be able to breathe hands-free while driving his scooter or wheelchair.

Privacy Cover for catheter bag

Another type of health supplies so many of our fathers are having to use are urinary catheters. When helping our loved ones use catheters, it is important to keep privacy in mind. If your father or husband uses a catheter with a catheter bag, you may want to consider getting him a Privacy Cover for catheter bags this Father’s Day. The Privacy Cover conceals catheter bags while in public or entertaining guests. It fits snugly under the wheelchair, and the bag can be emptied without removing the cover. Give your father the dignity he deserves with a Privacy Cover.

Store items less conspicuously

Glove Box Under Seat Bag

The Glove Box Under Seat Bag is also useful for maintaining privacy. This pouch fits unobtrusively under the wheelchair seat and can be used to store personal and valuable items.

With these gifts, your father will be able to store items behind, beside and below his wheelchair for maximum utility.