“The Travel CPAP and BiPAP Machines are designed to go with you wherever your travels take you.
We want you to enjoy the highest level of comfort and mobility with your new portable CPAP and BiPAP.”

~ CPAP Store London

 

There are several “travel CPAP machines” that are designed with travelers in mind. They are going to be smaller and lighter than their standard counterparts, which makes them easy to carry in a bag and comfortable to use on flights. Some of our customer favorite Travel CPAP machines are:

 

If you plan on use your CPAP or BiPAP Machine in-flight, we recommend you follow these tips to prepare for your trip:

1. Download a copy of the FAA Compliance Letter. Find the brand of your CPAP/BiPAP machine below and carry it with you while you travel.

2. Contact the airline’s Medical Services at least two weeks prior to your travel date to obtain approval to use your travel CPAP or BiPAP Machine on-board.

3. Carry a copy of the airline’s approval letter (if they provide one).

4. Carry a letter from your doctor that certifies your requirement to use a PAP device.

5. If you are not using a battery on-board, arrange for seating next to a power source and verify the type of power cord or adapter needed for use in-flight.

6. If you’ll be using humidifier remember to take your own distilled water.

7. Travel Machines automatically transform the voltage, but it may require a plug adaptor for use in another country.

8. If you plan to use the batteries during travel, it is best to fully charge them before you leave for your trip.

9. Carry your prescription, medical equipment provider information, health insurance and contact information of your primary physician with you when you travel.

10. Have a safe flight dear CPAPer!

Travel Q’ & A’s:

Q: Can I take my CPAP machine on a plane with me?
A: Absolutely! As a matter of fact, you should always carry-on your CPAP / BiPAP machine as opposed to checking it. Since they’re medical devices, a separate travel case with just your machine in it won’t be counted toward your total amount of allowable checked bags. TSA agents are used to seeing CPAPs come through the security line, as well, so that keeps things moving pretty quickly. Remember though, you still have to take the machine out to be X-rayed as you make your way through the security line and those security line bins aren’t exactly the most sanitary things in the world. So, do consider placing your CPAP/ BiPAP machine, mask, and hose in separate clear plastic bag(s) where the agent can see what’s inside.

 

Q: Can I use my CPAP /BiPAP machine in-flight?
A: Of course! Again, a CPAP /BiPAP machine is considered a medical device. Although, some airlines may require advanced notice that you’ll be using your device on your flight, and the amount of time you need can vary. You’ll want to contact the airline to find out what other steps you must take to make sure you won’t have any issues. Also, take power supply needs into consideration. If you’re using a corded machine, you’ll have to request and potentially pay more for a seat with a power adaptor. Lastly, remember the travel CPAP Machines are very quiet and can easily fit on a tray table when using your CPAP in-flight.

 

Q: What kind of power supply do I need?
A: Most travel CPAP machines on the market today are easy to supplement with battery packs and are compatible with all the travel CPAP Machines mentioned above. Our customers favorite is the Portable Outlet 155W Universal CPAP Battery For CPAP Machine. The longest lasting, and most versatile CPAP Battery in the market. Supports 12 Volt and 24 Volt CPAP models. Remember, if you decide to take an external battery source, know that you’ll likely need to carry that on as well – lithium ion batteries are not allowed in checked baggage. Know what you’re packing!

 

Special Note: At the end of the day, you may not be comfortable using your machine on an airplane – and that’s OK! But if you are, and feel you’re not being treated fairly, you should call the DOT Disability Coordinator hotline to file a formal complaint: 1-800-778-4838 .