Traveling with CPAP Made Easy

If you have sleep apnea and have been prescribed CPAP, hopefully, you’re using it every night. But even if you’re wearing your CPAP faithfully at home, what happens when you hit the road?

Traveling with CPAP may seem like too much of a nuisance to bother with. But it’s not. Most CPAP machines are small and easy to take with you. Also, keep in mind, sleep apnea causes pauses in your breathing that can lead to serious health complications. Your sleep apnea does not stop while you’re on vacation. So, why stop your treatment?

CPAP Travel Tips

1. If you’re traveling by air, bring your CPAP as a carry-on item. It may come as no surprise that the airlines misplace luggage from time to time. Don’t worry about using one of your allowed carry-ons for CPAP. CPAP is considered a medical device so you can carry it on in addition to your allotted bags.
2. Like other items, your CPAP must be scanned through the X-ray machine. CPAP machines are common, and most TSA agents are familiar with the device. To be on the safe side, consider bringing your prescription and place a tag on the machine, which designates it as a medical device.
3. Also, call the airline regarding the in-flight use of CPAP, since individual policies may vary.
4. When traveling with your CPAP, you may want to consider disconnecting the humidifier. You don’t want the water to leak out while you’re on route. Keep in mind; you don’t need humidification for your CPAP to work.
5. Whether you are traveling by air, car or RV, there are a few supplies to take with you to make using your CPAP easy. For example, if possible, bring a battery on your travels. Many batteries for CPAP machines last from eight to 24 hours and provide a reliable power source in case you’re not near an electrical outlet.
6. If you plan to use your CPAP in a car or boat, a converter allows you to use your machine from a 12-volt or 24-volt power source. It’s also helpful to write down your pressure settings, mask size and type and insurance information. It’s better to have all your information with you in case you need to replace something while on the road.
7. For those who travel a lot, you might want to consider buying a travel CPAP machine. Some travel CPAP machines are not much larger than a soda can, which makes it even more convenient to take your CPAP on the road.