5 Things to Know Before Renting a Scooter in Paris
Riding a scooter is fun, riding a scooter in Paris can be terrifying. I consider myself confident on a scooter, but riding a scooter in Paris is a whole different experience; one that I would describe as quite terrifying. Riding a scooter in Paris, can provide you with a sense of freedom. I rented a scooter for a week, and these are the 5 things to know before renting a Scooter in Paris.
Before I rented any scooter in Paris, I did research on how to identify the best side scooter for me. Due to the fact I’m very short, I wanted one that I could confidently handle, and could touch the ground with both legs when I came to a stop. Finding the right scooter size is imperative. When I arrived to meet the gentleman to the rent the scooter he had many different sizes and was very kind by helping me identify the best scooter size for my height. Now let’s take a look at the 5 things to know before renting a scooter in Paris!
5 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE RENTING A SCOOTER IN PARIS
Gloves are optional
- GLOVES ARE OPTIONALS – I want to give you a little bit of a background and why this tip is number 1. I’d never tell someone to intentionally break the law. Before we started our first scooter adventure in Paris, I did research and googled the laws of the French road. What I didn’t expect to read was that it is illegal not to wear gloves when driving a scooter and that you could be pulled over. My first thought was, “this can’t be true”, I kept reading more and more articles about how it’s mandatory to wear gloves. At this point I’m thinking, “okay it’s the middle of July everyone rides scooters, I will just go outside and see if people are really wearing gloves.” In conclusion, I’d estimate about 50% of the people are wearing gloves. These aren't winter gloves you’d wear to shovel snow, but slick leather gloves. Due to the fact I was super nervous driving a scooter for the first time in Paris, one of the busiest cities in the world, I opted in for riding gloves.
GPS NAVIGATION IS A MUST
- GPS NAVIGATION IS A MUST – A way to navigate the streets of Paris is a must, I would recommend either using your phone or an actual GPS navigator. In Paris, there are many one way streets, and unless you are familiar with the city you are guaranteed to make a mistake. I consider myself confident on the Parisian roads, but typically I walk everywhere or take the metro. As a result, when you are walking or taking the metro you aren’t really paying attention to the road details. In addition, many navigation systems will tell you the speed limit!
WEAR A HELMET
- WEAR A HELMET – In my opinion wearing a helmet is one of the most important things I can stress. Riding a scooter can be dangerous and the most important thing is your safety. Some drivers can be aggressive in Paris, and my thoughts are always, “better to be safe than sorry.”
PRACTICE ON BACK ROADS, TO GAIN CONFIDENCE
- PRACTICE ON BACK ROADS, TO GAIN CONFIDENCE – Even though I’ve ridden a scooter many times before, I practiced on back streets that were relatively empty before I hit the crazy Parisian Roads. By practicing on the back streets, I was able to raise my confidence level.
TONS OF HONKING
- TONS OF HONKING – Be Aware that both other scooters and cars will consistency be honking at you. Many times people who rent or own scooters weave in and out the crazy Parisian traffic. Therefore, if you aren’t weaving in and out of traffic people will constantly honking at you to hurry up!
I truly believe it was a remarkable experience and a unique way to see Paris! Keep in mind, when renting a scooter in Paris be aware, that typically things like a helmet, gloves, navigation are all additional costs. These are my top 5 things to know before renting a scooter in Paris. One final tip don't forget your driver's license and have fun! 🙂
Here is a fun video of me riding a scooter around Paris -> VIDEO HERE
Sincerely Petite in Paris,
Diane