Natural hazard-related disasters such as wildfires, hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods pose significant risks to older adults, individuals with disabilities, and those with chronic health conditions. Transportation-related challenges during and after evacuation can severely impact their safety, mobility, and recovery. This scoping review examines the current evidence, including 20 studies from PubMed, APA PsycINFO, CINAHL Complete, EMBASE, and Web of Science, to identify research gaps and inform strategies to improve evacuation outcomes and long-term resilience for these at-risk groups. The STEPS framework (Spatial, Temporal, Economic, Physiological, Social) was applied to guide the analysis and interpretation of findings.

Four key areas of concern were identified: (1) immediate transportation barriers during evacuation, (2) prolonged transportation disruptions post-disaster, (3) anticipated logistical challenges in future evacuation planning, and (4) inconsistent and inaccessible communication of transportation-related information during emergencies. These challenges intersected with all five STEPS dimensions.

Findings: Transportation barriers remain a persistent and under-addressed risk factor in disaster contexts for vulnerable groups. The STEPS framework helped reveal the multidimensional nature of these issues, emphasizing the need for integrated planning, assistive transport options, inclusive communication systems, and stronger public–private coordination. Future research should focus on collecting disaggregated data, evaluating interventions, and supporting inclusive policy reforms tailored to each type of disaster.