Travel with CPAP

Travelling with your CPAP device

Travelling with your CPAP device need not be difficult if you treat it carefully and plan ahead.

Moving your CPAP device: Always remove the humidifier chamber before moving your CPAP device – even if the humidifier chamber appears to be empty – to prevent water getting inside the device.

Camping with your CPAP device: Away from mains power, you can power your CPAP device using a 12V deep cycle marine battery and a DC battery adapter cable or shielded DC power cord, and an inverter if your CPAP device does not have a built-in transformer

• It is a good idea to test your CPAP device’s performance by running it on the battery at home for a night or two before you set-out
• Do not power your CPAP device with your standard car battery, or an outlet in your car, because it will flatten the battery before morning
• Do not power your CPAP device from a battery if you use oxygen as part of your therapy as a spark from the battery terminals could create a fire hazard

Travelling overseas with your CPAP device

• Most CPAP devices are able to be used worldwide (110V to 250V) provided you have the correct plug adapter for the country you are in
• Most aeroplane sockets are 110V and use a US style plug
• Most airlines will treat your CPAP devices as medical equipment and allow you to carry it on board in addition to your regular carry-on luggage quota
• Not all airlines allow you to use your CPAP device in flight, even if you can carry it on, so check with your airline carrier before departure
• It is a good idea to carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor when you fly