Best way to Travel with CPAP: Tales from Europe!

Here I am in Europe with my ResMed AirMini AutoSet Travel CPAP.

For anyone living with sleep apnea like me, using a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine is essential to getting a good night’s sleep. But what happens when you’re traveling?

Traveling when you suffer from sleep apnea can be an absolute pain, and potentially dangerous for these reasons.

• If you are flying long-haul how can you sleep if you snore like a chainsaw without upsetting the other passengers?
• If you have severe sleep apnea, how do you rest on a long-haul flight without compromising your health?
• When you’re flying or sleeping away from a power point, you need a CPAP machine that can operate with a rechargeable battery. This could be when you are traveling in multiple hotels like me, or if you are going camping.
• You want to wake up and enjoy your holiday with headaches and a groggy head, and not annoy your partner or friends.
• If you are on a business trip you need to wake up sharp to take on the day ahead.

The good news is that with a little planning, you can bring your CPAP along with ease and still enjoy restful sleep away from home. In this article, I’ll share some personal tips and advice to help you have a hassle-free experience traveling with your CPAP.

Should you buy a Travel CPAP or take your Bedside CPAP?

Ok, so here’s what I recommend…

If you currently have a bedside CPAP machine then you are going to have to think about what is involved in your travel plans and if you intend to make similar travel plans in the future.

For me, I learned the hard way. I took my bedside ResMed 10 with me which I could not use on the flight and then I could not use it at some of the hotels because the bed was nowhere near a power outlet! Plus, it was bulky to carry around.

So for my last trip, I bought a ResMed AirMini AutoSet Travel CPAP complete with an external battery and a fancy carrying case, as shown above.

But if you are traveling to one hotel and you don’t intend to go camping then I recommend you take your trusty bedside CPAP machine together with a long extension power cord. Be careful you don’t trip on it!!

Finally, if you don’t have a CPAP machine yet and you need to purchase one and you’re wondering if you should get a travel one for all your needs, then I recommend you don’t. Get both.

The reason is that the Travel CPAP machines do not contain a water tank and instead incorporate a mini-humidifier filter that makes use of your breath to humidify the air.

For long-term use, travel CPAP machines are noisier and do not give you the quality of therapy that bedside machines do.

Pack Smart: Make a CPAP Travel Checklist

The good news is that I have a CPAP travel checklist that can save you from last-minute panic. Here’s what you’ll want to include:

• CPAP Machine: Don’t forget the machine itself. Travel or Bedside (maybe both)
• Power Cord and Plug Adapter: Make sure you have the cord, and if you’re traveling internationally, check whether you need an adapter for different outlets. Also, take an extension if you can find one that is not bulky for times when there is no plug by your bed or if you find that your battery is flat.
• Mask and Headgear: Pack your mask, along with any extra parts in case something gets lost or breaks.
• Humidifier Chamber (if applicable): If you use a CPAP humidifier, make sure to bring the water chamber along with distilled water, if possible.
• Filters: The mini CPAP machines have filters.
• Battery Pack: A battery is worth the extra investment. I have found that a battery will last 2 nights and sometimes 3.
• International Travel: (if applicable) The USA and Canada use 110V. Most of the rest of the world uses 220/240V. You need to check if your machine is capable of switching between the two. Otherwise, you may need to take a transformer.
• CPAP Travel Case: Most CPAPs come with a travel case. It keeps everything organized and protected.

Being prepared means fewer headaches (literally) on the road and peace of mind knowing you’ve got your CPAP essentials with you.

Get a travel-friendly CPAP machine

I’ve already mentioned it and I’ve posted a nice pic of me carrying my travel CPAP in its case, but it’s worth mentioning again, that compact, portable CPAP machines like the ResMed AirMini are perfect for trips since they’re lightweight and easy to carry.

If you travel a lot, investing in a travel CPAP will make life much easier. Even if you don’t have a travel-specific machine, most standard CPAP machines are FAA-approved, meaning they’re safe to use on flights.

Air Travel: Navigating the Airport with CPAP

Air travel with CPAP is easier than it might seem. Here are a few tips to make it smooth:

• Carry Your CPAP Onboard: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the U.S. considers CPAP machines as medical devices. This means they don’t count as part of your carry-on limit, so you can bring your machine in its case along with your usual carry-on bag.
• TSA Screening: At security, you may need to take your CPAP out of its case so it can be screened separately. I recommend bringing a plastic bag to place it in, as the machine will need to go into a tray on the conveyor belt. TSA agents are familiar with CPAPs, so it shouldn’t cause any issues.
• Use Your CPAP During the Flight: Most airlines allow the use of CPAP machines during long flights. Check with your airline beforehand to confirm their policy. You might also want to notify the airline in advance if you plan to use your machine during the flight. I just took my travel CPAP on board and no one asked any questions.

Plan for Power Needs at Your Destination

Before you leave, make sure you know what kind of power outlets will be available where you’re staying.

In the USA and Canada, outlet voltage is 110V. The rest of the world with a few exceptions uses 220/240V.

You need to check if your machine is capable of switching between the two. Otherwise, you may need to take a transformer or plug adapter. Additionally, if you’re staying somewhere with limited or unpredictable electricity, such as a rural area or a campsite, a CPAP battery can be a lifesaver. Look for hotels or accommodations that offer outlets near the bed or check if you’ll need to bring an extension cord.

Maintain Your CPAP’s Cleanliness on the Go

Keeping your CPAP clean while traveling is just as important as when you’re at home. Traveling can expose your machine to more dust, dirt, and germs, so make sure to bring along a small cleaning kit. Here’s what I usually pack:

• CPAP Wipes: These are great for quick cleanings and can easily fit in your travel bag.
• Portable CPAP Cleaner: If you’re able to bring one, this will save you the hassle of washing your mask and hose by hand during your trip.
• Travel-Sized Soap and Water: If you don’t have wipes or a cleaner, make sure you have a way to gently wash your equipment. Mild soap and warm water work best.

By taking just a few minutes each day to clean your CPAP, you’ll avoid bacteria buildup and ensure your machine is running smoothly throughout your trip.

Make Sleep a Priority

Travel can throw off your sleep schedule, especially if you’re crossing multiple time zones. Try to stick to your usual routine as much as possible, even if it means using your CPAP during daytime naps. If you’re dealing with jet lag, give yourself time to adjust and use your CPAP consistently to help your body up to speed.

Additionally, if you’re staying in a new environment, make it comfortable to sleep. Bring along earplugs, an eye mask, or even a travel pillow to make the space feel more familiar.

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Conclusion: Traveling with CPAP Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

Do you have any questions or CPAP travel stories? Please share in the comments below.