Travelling with CPAP: What You Need to Know

Travelling doesn’t mean taking a break from your CPAP therapy. Whether you’re heading away for a weekend, travelling interstate or taking an international trip, a little preparation can make using your CPAP away from home simple and stress-free.

From packing your equipment and getting through the airport to managing power requirements and keeping everything clean, here’s what you need to know about travelling with CPAP.

Why You Should Keep Using CPAP While Travelling

It can be tempting to leave your CPAP machine at home for a short trip, but maintaining consistent therapy is important.

CPAP therapy works while you use it, so skipping treatment may allow symptoms of obstructive sleep apnoea to return. This can include snoring, disrupted sleep, morning headaches and daytime tiredness.

Travel can already disrupt your normal sleep routine, particularly when changing time zones, sleeping in unfamiliar surroundings or having busy days. Continuing your CPAP therapy can help maintain your usual sleep routine and ensure you’re getting the treatment you need while away.

Packing Your CPAP for Travel

A CPAP machine should ideally be packed in its protective travel case rather than placed loose inside a suitcase.

Before leaving, check that you have all the essential components you need:

CPAP machine
CPAP mask and headgear
CPAP tubing
Power supply and cable
Humidifier chamber, if required
Spare filters
Cleaning supplies
International power adaptor, if travelling overseas
Extension lead or power board if appropriate
Any spare mask parts you may need

It can also be helpful to take a copy of your CPAP prescription or a letter confirming that you use CPAP therapy, particularly when travelling internationally.

Before packing your humidifier chamber, make sure it has been completely emptied and allowed to dry. Water left inside the chamber can leak into your bag or potentially enter the CPAP device during transport.

Consider Packing Spare Supplies

If you’re travelling for an extended period, consider taking a few backup supplies.

A spare mask cushion, filters or other small replacement parts take up very little room and can save you from having to locate CPAP supplies in an unfamiliar destination.

This is particularly important when travelling overseas or to remote areas where compatible CPAP equipment may not be readily available.

Flying with a CPAP Machine

CPAP machines are commonly taken on flights, but airline policies can vary.

Where possible, it is generally preferable to carry your CPAP machine with you rather than placing it in checked luggage. Checked luggage can be delayed, lost or damaged, potentially leaving you without your therapy equipment.

Keeping your CPAP with you also allows you to protect the device from rough handling.

Before travelling, check directly with your airline regarding its current requirements for carrying or using a CPAP device onboard.

If you plan to use your CPAP during the flight, contact the airline before departure. Requirements regarding medical devices, batteries and onboard power supplies can differ between airlines and aircraft.

Going Through Airport Security

You may be asked to remove your CPAP machine from its travel bag when passing through airport security.

Security staff are familiar with medical equipment, but having your machine packed neatly and easily accessible can make the process quicker.

If the machine needs to be inspected separately, you can ask security staff to use clean gloves when handling it.

CPAP Power Requirements When Travelling

Before travelling, check the power requirements listed on your CPAP machine or power supply.

Many modern CPAP power supplies are designed to operate across a range of international voltages. However, you should always confirm the specifications for your particular machine rather than assuming it will work overseas.

Even when your CPAP power supply supports the voltage at your destination, you may still require a suitable plug adaptor.

A plug adaptor changes the physical plug connection but does not necessarily convert electrical voltage.

If you’re unsure whether your machine is compatible with the electricity supply at your destination, check with your CPAP provider or the device manufacturer before travelling.

Using CPAP Without Access to Mains Power

Camping, road trips, overnight flights and remote travel may mean you don’t always have access to a standard power outlet.

Depending on your CPAP machine, compatible battery or portable power options may be available.

However, power consumption can vary considerably depending on your machine and settings. Heated humidification and heated tubing can use significantly more power than CPAP therapy alone.

If you’re relying on battery power, it is important to determine approximately how long your setup will operate before travelling.

Always check that the battery or power source you intend to use is compatible with your specific CPAP machine.

If you’re flying with a CPAP battery, you should also check your airline’s requirements regarding lithium batteries before departure.

Should You Take Your Humidifier?

Whether you take your humidifier will depend on your destination, the length of your trip and how dependent you are on humidification for comfort.

If you normally experience dryness or congestion without humidification, taking your humidifier may help you remain comfortable and consistent with therapy.

For short trips, some people may choose to travel without it to reduce the amount of equipment they need to carry.

If you’re using humidification while travelling, continue following the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding suitable water for your device.

Remember to empty the humidifier chamber every morning and before moving or packing the machine.

Never transport your CPAP machine with water remaining in the chamber.

Cleaning Your CPAP While Travelling

Your CPAP equipment still needs regular cleaning while you’re away, but you don’t need to bring your entire cleaning setup with you.

For most trips, keeping things simple works well.

Mask

Regularly wipe or wash the mask cushion to remove facial oils, skincare products and residue.

Allow it to air dry completely before using it again.

Tubing

Your tubing can be washed periodically using warm water and an appropriate mild cleaning solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Hang it somewhere clean and well ventilated and allow it to dry thoroughly.

Humidifier Chamber

Empty the chamber each morning and allow it to air dry.

Clean it regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Filters

Check your filter during your trip, particularly if you’re staying somewhere dusty, smoky or in an area with different environmental conditions.

Packing a spare filter is a simple way to avoid problems during longer trips.

Keeping Your CPAP Equipment Hygienic

Hotels, hostels, campsites and shared accommodation can expose your equipment to environments that are different from home.

Try to keep your CPAP equipment on a clean, stable bedside surface rather than placing your mask or tubing directly on the floor.

When you’re not using your mask, store it somewhere clean and dry.

Avoid leaving CPAP equipment in excessive heat, direct sunlight or a hot vehicle for extended periods.

Travelling to Different Climates

Changes in temperature, altitude and humidity can affect how your CPAP therapy feels.

A dry or cold environment may make your nose or throat feel drier than usual, while a humid environment may change how much humidification you need.

If your CPAP has adjustable humidification, you may need to make small adjustments depending on your environment and comfort.

Some modern CPAP devices can automatically compensate for altitude within their specified operating range. However, if you’re travelling to a particularly high altitude destination, check your machine’s specifications before leaving.

Consider a Travel CPAP Machine

If you travel frequently, a dedicated travel CPAP machine may be worth considering.

Travel CPAP devices are designed to be smaller and lighter than standard bedside machines, making them easier to carry through airports and pack for trips.

However, travel machines can differ from standard CPAP devices in areas such as humidification, noise, tubing, mask compatibility and available features.

Before purchasing one, speak with a CPAP professional to make sure it suits your therapy requirements and travel needs.

Keeping Your Therapy Consistent While Away

One of the most important parts of travelling with CPAP is simply continuing to use it.

Try to keep your normal CPAP routine even when your schedule changes.

Set your machine up when you arrive at your accommodation rather than waiting until you’re exhausted and ready for bed. Check that you have access to a suitable power outlet and that your tubing and mask can be positioned comfortably.

If you’re crossing time zones, you generally don’t need to match your CPAP use to your usual bedtime at home use your machine whenever you’re having your main sleep period.

Before You Leave: Do a CPAP Travel Check

A few days before your trip, inspect your equipment.

Check your mask cushion for wear, inspect your tubing for damage, make sure your power supply is working correctly and confirm that you have enough filters and replacement supplies for the duration of your trip.

If something is due for replacement, organising it before you leave is much easier than trying to find compatible equipment while travelling.

Need Help Preparing Your CPAP for Travel?

Travelling with CPAP becomes much easier once you know what to prepare.

If you’re unsure about your machine’s power requirements, need replacement supplies, want to discuss portable CPAP options or would like help making sure your equipment is ready for your trip, speak with your CPAP provider before you leave.

With the right preparation, your CPAP therapy can travel with you helping you maintain consistent treatment and better sleep wherever your next trip takes you

Travelling with CPAP: What You Need to Know