Table of Contents
What to Pack When Travelling With CPAP
Your CPAP shouldn’t slow you down when you need to travel. It’s vital to use CPAP every night, even when you’re away from home.
You will apparently need to pack everything you’ll require to use with your CPAP at night: the machine, mask with headgear, tubing, and cushions. It’s also a good idea to pack backups as well, like an extra mask cushion, filter, and even tubing. These items can be damaged or lost during travel, and they typically don’t take up much space.
You can pack all these items in your medical equipment bag that came with the device.
Your CPAP is an important medical device, so you can transport it separately with the best carry-on luggage for CPAP. Alternatively, you can pack your CPAP in your checked baggage.
Do I Require my CPAP Humidifier While I’m Traveling?
Some people will try to minimize the bulk and weight of their baggage by leaving their humidifier at home. Depending on your destination, you may find that the ambient air is humid enough that you’ll be comfortable without your medical humidifier for a couple of nights.
If you do flying with a CPAP machine, ensure the water chamber is empty and dry before you pack it.
Finding Distilled Water for Your Humidifier Machine While Away From Home
While distilled water is recommended, it’s not indispensable-, especially for short travel. If you are using regular tap water, the minerals from the water will build up in the water chamber and potentially in the tubing. Obviously, this depends on where you’re traveling to and the qualities of the local tap water.
If you clean your water chamber and tubing and replace them regularly, this will not impact the performance of your CPAP machine or hinder your sleep apnea therapy– especially if you’re only doing it for a couple of weeks.
You can always buy distilled water locally or pack a few small bottles in your checked bag.
Are you a current patient and have questions about your therapy? Is it time to order additional supplies or extras for travel? Contact us today and get the help you need.