Sleep Resource | CPAP Travel Tips

Traveling with a CPAP machine requires some preparation. Ensure that your journey is smooth and your sleep therapy uninterrupted by following the tips below.

Sections:

I. Pre-Travel To-Dos

II. Packing List

III. At the Airport

IV. During the Flight

V. At Your Destination

Pre-Travel To-Dos

Key Questions:

What do I pack?
Are there airline policies or regulations that might affect my trip?
How do I make sure I'll be able to use my machine at my destination?

First, check your airline’s policy, which generally covers:

Carry-on allowance for a medical device
In-flight CPAP use
Carry-on battery specifications
Power outlet availability in-flight

ResMed has a list of policies for the most traveled airlines - you can find it here.

For airport security, review:

TSA policy regarding CPAPs (see here)
- According to the TSA, a nebulizer, CPAP, BiPAP and APAP must be removed from its carrying case and undergo X-ray screening. Facemasks and tubing may remain in the case. You may provide a clear plastic bag to place the device through the X-ray (source).

The CPAP/medical device policy for the country where you’re traveling (if outside the US).

To vet in-flight power outlets, use SeatGuru:

Find a seat with a power outlet.
Double-check the outlet type to see if you need an adapter.

Get relevant documentation from your doctor and CPAP manufacturer:

Get a letter from your doctor or from the manufacturer that states you need to use a CPAP machine. The letter can be useful if airline staff or security personnel question your ability to travel with your CPAP.

For examples of manufacturer letters, see examples from ResMed here and from Respironics here.

Power Adapters

Contact the hotel in advance to make sure your room has an accessible power outlet near the bed, and if not, request a room that does.
If traveling internationally, confirm the type of outlet that's beside the bed.
Ensure you have the correct power adapters (wall adapter) for your destination. Note that most modern CPAP machines are dual voltage
If you're concerned about having access to an outlet, bring an extension cord.

Backup Battery

If you’re traveling to a place where power outages are common or if you plan to camp, consider bringing a backup battery (see our post on batteries for some general sizes with some examples and guidelines).
Airlines and air security agencies have various policies regarding batteries on-board - ResMed has a page that many airline policies here. TSA's policy on batteries can be found here.

Label Your Machine

Clearly label your CPAP machine and case as a medical device. This can help during security checks and when communicating with airline staff.

Packing List

Use a sturdy, padded case to protect your CPAP machine during transit. Many CPAP machines come with a travel case designed for this purpose.

Also, make sure components are dry prior to packing to avoid mold/mildew.

CPAP & machine components:

Machine
Hose
Mask & strap
Power cord
Humidifier tank (if used - be sure its empty!)

Power Requirements:

Power Adapter(s)?
Backup battery?

Remedies & Accessories:

Any remedies/accessories that make your CPAP use more comfortable (for examples, see our Remedies & Accessories page)

Water for Humidification

For in-flight use, check whether you can bring distilled water through security, or simply use bottled water purchased at the airport.

If distilled or filtered water is unavailable at your destination, you may consider packing bottles of water in your checked bag or purchasing water at your home or destination's airport.

At the Airport

Security Screening:

CPAP machines may be subject to screening, similar to laptops. Be prepared to take it out of its case and place it in a separate bin for X-ray screening.
Inform the TSA officer that you are carrying a CPAP machine, which may require additional screening.
If you are enrolled in a pre-screening program (TSA PreCheck, Clear) then this additional screening may not be necessary.

Always communicate your needs clearly with airline and accommodation staff and keep your documentation handy to avoid any hassles.

Note on Special Handling: If you’re concerned about contamination, request that the TSA officer use clean gloves and a new swab for your machine.

During the Flight

Onboard Use:

Some airlines allow you to use your CPAP machine during the flight - ResMed has a page that links to airline policies, which you can find here.
Confirm your airline’s policy (see link to ResMed airline policy page above) and use SeatGuru and/or your airline’s customer service to confirm the presence of a power outlet accessible from your seat.

Battery Power Dry Run:

If you plan to use your CPAP machine on the flight, do a trial run at home with the battery or power adapters to ensure everything works correctly.

At Your Destination

‍Maintenance/Cleaning

Distilled water: Many cruise lines now inquire as part of a pre-departure checklist whether passengers use a CPAP machine, and provide distilled water at the time of check-in.
Cleaning: You may consider using CPAP cleaning wipes to clean your machine, mask, and tubing while on the go. This keeps your equipment hygienic and ready for use.

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Additional Tips

Backup Supplies: You may consider bringing extra masks, tubing, and filters in case of damage, loss, and based on length of stay.

Insurance: Check if your travel insurance covers your CPAP machine for loss or damage.

Travel-Friendly Machines: If you travel frequently, consider investing in a travel-sized CPAP machine. These are lighter and more compact but provide the same therapeutic benefits. See the section on Travel CPAP machines regarding some options.

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Wrap-Up

Let us know if there are areas uncovered above that you think we should add - you can contact us via the form on the About & Contact page.

* Happy Travels and Sweet Dreams! *

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