6 VA Portable Ramps That Occupational Therapists Endorse

A simple set of three stairs can feel like a wall when you’re planning a visit to a friend’s house or a trip to a local business. For many veterans, maintaining the freedom to go where you want, when you want, is a non-negotiable part of an independent life. This is where a well-chosen portable ramp becomes less a piece of medical equipment and more a key to the world.

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Why OTs Recommend Portable Ramps for Veterans

An Occupational Therapist’s primary goal is to solve problems that get in the way of you living your life. We look at the entire picture: your home, your vehicle, your community, and your personal goals. A portable ramp is one of the most effective tools in our kit because it directly addresses a common barrier—changes in level—that can limit participation in meaningful activities.

Think of it not as a concession, but as a strategic advantage. It’s the tool that lets you say "yes" to a last-minute invitation to a family barbecue, even if their porch has two steps. It’s the bridge that ensures you can get your scooter out of the van to explore a new park or attend a community event. Independence isn’t just about managing tasks at home; it’s about staying connected to the people and places that matter.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) often provides durable medical equipment, including ramps, to eligible veterans. OTs frequently assist in this process, ensuring the chosen ramp matches the veteran’s specific needs, environment, and mobility device. The right ramp isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about preserving routines, roles, and the freedom of choice.

EZ-ACCESS SUITCASE Ramp for Everyday Portability

When you need a reliable, grab-and-go solution for a few steps or a high curb, the SUITCASE ramp is a frequent recommendation. Its single-fold design is intuitive, opening and closing like a book. Made from lightweight aluminum, it’s manageable enough to be placed by a user or a companion without significant strain.

This ramp excels in situations requiring quick deployment. Imagine pulling up to a restaurant with a single step at the entrance. Within a minute, this ramp can be unfolded, positioned, and ready for use, making spontaneous outings far less complicated. Its integrated handle makes carrying it feel balanced and secure, just like a briefcase.

The key consideration here is the relationship between ramp length and the height of the obstacle, or the "rise." For an unassisted manual wheelchair user, a gentle slope is critical. Therefore, SUITCASE ramps, which typically come in 2-to-8-foot lengths, are best suited for lower rises of one to three steps. They provide immense value for everyday barriers but aren’t the solution for a full flight of stairs.

PVI Bighorn Plastic Threshold Ramp for Doorways

Sometimes the most frustrating barriers are the smallest. A half-inch door threshold between your living room and your patio can be a daily nuisance and a significant trip hazard. For these situations, a heavy-duty plastic or rubber threshold ramp is an elegant and effective solution.

The PVI Bighorn is a prime example of a simple tool that solves a high-frequency problem. These small, wedge-like ramps are incredibly durable and can be placed directly against the threshold, creating a smooth transition. Because they are not permanently installed, they can be easily moved for cleaning or repositioned to another doorway, making them ideal for both homeowners and renters. An OT might recommend one for the main entryway and another for the door leading to a garage or backyard.

Prairie View Multifold Ramp for Vehicle Access

Getting a heavy power chair or mobility scooter into the back of an SUV or van is a significant challenge that can tether you to your home. This is where a multifold ramp becomes essential. Unlike a suitcase ramp, a multifold ramp folds into several smaller sections, allowing for much greater lengths—often up to 10 or 12 feet.

This extra length is crucial for creating a safe, gradual slope needed to clear the high threshold of a vehicle’s cargo bay. The ramp’s design allows it to be folded down to a more compact size for transport, though it is significantly heavier and bulkier than a shorter suitcase model. An OT will always stress the importance of ensuring the ramp is properly secured to the vehicle before loading or unloading to prevent dangerous slippage.

Choosing a multifold ramp involves a tradeoff. You gain the length needed for high rises, but you sacrifice the lightweight portability of a smaller ramp. It requires careful consideration of who will be handling the ramp and the storage space available in the vehicle. For veterans who rely on a power mobility device, however, it is a critical tool for maintaining community access.

Roll-A-Ramp Portable System for Versatility

No two environments are exactly alike. One friend’s home may have two steep steps, while another has a long, shallow entryway. The Roll-A-Ramp system is endorsed for its unique, modular design that adapts to these varied situations. It’s constructed from interlocking aluminum segments that can be rolled up like a sleeping bag for transport.

The genius of this system is its scalability. You can purchase a specific length and later add or remove sections to make it longer or shorter as your needs change. This makes it a long-term investment that can be reconfigured for different homes, vehicles, or travel destinations. An OT might recommend this for a veteran who travels frequently and encounters unpredictable architectural barriers.

This versatility comes with a consideration: setup time. Unrolling the ramp, securing it, and potentially adjusting its length takes more effort than simply unfolding a SUITCASE ramp. However, for those who require a single ramp that can solve multiple, distinct accessibility challenges, the Roll-A-Ramp offers unparalleled flexibility.

EZ-ACCESS GATEWAY 3 Solid Ramp for Stability

While portability is key, sometimes what you really need is unwavering stability. The GATEWAY 3 is a one-piece, solid-surface ramp that provides the look and feel of a permanent installation without the construction. It’s an excellent choice for a primary residence where a ramp is needed daily but a permanent wooden or concrete structure isn’t feasible or desired.

Because it doesn’t fold, the seamless, non-slip surface provides a secure and confident path. There are no hinges or gaps to navigate, which is particularly beneficial for users of walkers or three-wheeled scooters. OTs often recommend adding the optional handrails, which offer an extra layer of safety and support, especially in wet or icy conditions.

While not "portable" in the daily sense, it is designed to be easily moved or relocated if you move to a new home. This makes it a perfect semi-permanent solution for renters or for those who want a robust home access system without committing to a major renovation. It bridges the gap between temporary convenience and permanent modification.

PVI Telescoping Tracks for Compact Storage

For the user who prioritizes minimal storage space above all else, telescoping tracks are a clever solution. Instead of a single, wide ramp, this system consists of two narrow, separate channels that extend to the desired length. When not in use, they retract into a highly compact form, easily stored in a car trunk or a closet.

These tracks are ideal for manual wheelchair users who have good upper body strength and coordination, or for situations where a caregiver is assisting. Their chief advantage is their incredibly small footprint. They solve the problem of how to bring a ramp along without sacrificing an entire cargo area.

However, their design demands precision. The user or their assistant must align the wheelchair’s wheels perfectly on each track. This makes them unsuitable for power chairs, three-wheeled scooters, or individuals with visual or fine motor challenges. They fill a specific niche for the right user who needs maximum portability and has the skill to use them safely.

Choosing Your Ramp: An OT’s Final Checklist

Selecting the right ramp is a decision that directly impacts your safety and independence. Before making a choice, work through this checklist to ensure you’re matching the tool to the task. An experienced OT or a certified Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) can provide an expert assessment.

First, focus on the environment and the equipment.

• Measure the Rise: Calculate the total vertical height from the ground to the landing surface. A safe, unoccupied ramp slope is generally 2 inches of rise for every 1 foot of ramp (2:12). For an occupied chair, the ADA-recommended slope is 1 inch of rise for every 1 foot of ramp (1:12). A 24-inch rise requires a 24-foot ramp for independent use.
• Assess the Landing Space: Is there enough flat, level ground at the top and bottom for the ramp and for maneuvering the mobility device safely?
• Check Weight Capacity: Ensure the ramp can support the combined weight of the user and their mobility device (power chairs can be very heavy).

Next, consider the user and the logistics.

• Identify the User: Will the ramp be used independently or with assistance? This impacts the required slope and ramp features, like handrails.
• Evaluate Ramp Weight: Who will be carrying, setting up, and storing the ramp? Be realistic about what is a manageable weight.
• Plan for Storage: Where will the ramp be stored at home and in a vehicle? Measure the available space to ensure it will fit.

Ultimately, the best ramp is the one that you will actually use because it is safe, effective, and manageable for your specific situation. Consulting with a professional is the surest way to invest wisely in a tool that will open doors for years to come.

A portable ramp is more than just an inclined plane; it’s a powerful tool for self-determination. By carefully choosing the right one, you are proactively designing a life of continued engagement, freedom, and connection. It’s a practical step that affirms your ability to navigate the world on your own terms.