One of the most important features of a healthy lifestyle includes getting good, quality sleep – even when you travel (or fly economy class!).
That’s why we’ve put together this article about traveling with CPAP machines, so those who suffer from sleep apnea can bring their machines on getaways and keep obtaining healthy, uninterrupted sleep.
Here’s what we know about CPAP machines and travel.
What is a CPAP?
CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure machine, is a device that helps people who suffer from sleep apnea.
This is a sleep disorder wherein people can have their breathing stop for up to 30 times or up to almost 1 hour while sleeping. This can result in the brain and the rest of the body not getting its much needed oxygen to function properly.
To combat this issue, a CPAP machine pushes air through the airways to keep them open and clear for a more restful sleep.
The CPAP machine comes with the following items:
- The machine with a pump that controls the airflow
- Tube where the air from the machine flows into the body
- A mask that goes over the nose, mouth, or both
Traveling with a CPAP Machine
It is possible to bring a CPAP Machine in carry-on luggage, but make sure the actual machine is taken out of its case and goes through x-ray screening. Though not required, it would be helpful to bring a copy of the doctor’s CPAP prescription to avoid any problems that may arise.
The machine can also be used on-board, but take note that not all aircraft will have a power source available in all the seats. It’s best to go for a model that comes with a battery pack.
Check the voltage capacity of the device and the voltage in the destination to ensure that the machine can function without any problem.
Top Travel CPAP Machines
Here are the most popular CPAP machines available in the market that are very portable and perfect for travel.
ResMed AirMini™ AutoSet™ Travel CPAP Machine
Price: $624.00
This CPAP machine is tiny! It is the world’s smallest CPAP machine weighing in at only 10 ounces. The weight of the entire set up (power cords, humidifier, masks, tubes, etc.) is only around 2 lbs.
It can easily fit in your carry-on or handbag, is very quiet and has three pressure modes. It can also be controlled using the AirMini App.
It is compatible with the following ResMed Masks:
- AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow Mask
- AirFit N20 Nasal Mask
- AirFit F20 Full Face
- AirFit F30 Full Face
Philips Respironics DreamStation Go Auto CPAP Machine
Price: $899.99
Another portable favorite, the DreamStation Go is the travel-sized version of Philips’ popular DreamStation CPAP machines.
It is half the size of the regular machines, features a touch screen display, flex pressure relief, and micro 12mm tubing.
Optional accessories you can buy bundled with it for bigger savings include a travel battery, USB port, heated humidifier (so you can use tap water instead of distilled water), and a travel case.
Human Design Medical Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine
Price: $489.00
The Z2 is an improved version of HDM’s popular Z1 model and features a quieter motor and comes with a free Q-tube to further reduce noise.
It is very light and compact, and is FAA compliant to be taken on board and used inflight.
It features a waterless humidification system, which uses the moisture from the expelled breath to keep the throat and nasal passages and from drying out.
Users will also be able to track their CPAP therapy data using the Nitelog App on mobile devices or through its proprietary software on Windows machines.
Apex Medical XT Fit CPAP Machine
Price: $249.00
The XT Fit CPAP Machine is lightweight, compact, and a great budget-friendly option.
For the price, users get the basic features of a CPAP machine, without the bells and whistles that may not even be needed.
It has a built-in power supply and weighs only 1.78 pounds, making it easy to pack in an overnight bag or a carry-on.
Which travel-friendly CPAP Machine to get?
Buying a CPAP Machine requires a prescription from a physician. Before getting a prescription, one must be diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, which is determined via an overnight polysomnographic evaluation in a sleep center.
The prescription will include the pressure level best suited for the diagnosis.
It is important to buy only from reputable sources to ensure the best quality machine for your CPAP therapy.
You might also be interested in:
- Tips for Packing Medications When You Travel
- Healthy Snacks for Travel
- The Essential Travel Medical Kit
Pin these to your favorite boards
Great article. Struggled with feeling that my Cpap was secure when traveling. The solution for my Airmini was an insulated lunch bag. It isn’t considered extra baggage on a flight and I can attach it to my carry-on. For my regular sized cpap I use a camera case backpack. It’s easy to carry and is extra padded to protect my machine. I hope this helps others.
Just as a note to CPAP users: your travel CPAP does feel a bit different than your usual machine! Do try it out at home so you can get it adjusted and comfortable before you want to collapse into bed at your destination.