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Summer Travel with a CPAP Machine
It’s time for summer road trips, beach vacations and long weekends spent outdoors. While most people toss their beach clothes and sandals in a bag and go, you are wondering how to bring along your CPAP machine without it weighing you down. To make things quick and easy, we have some helpful tips that will keep your suitcase light and your vacation restful!
Although it might seem easier to leave your CPAP at home, it is crucial to be consistent with your sleep therapy. Thankfully, there are some tricks to make the journey a bit easier with your machine and mask in tow.
Packing tips:
- Invest in a CPAP travel bag — your machine will stay dry and protected from damage.
- Bring an extension cord & batteries — you never know where you will need to use your machine. Make sure you have a long cord and backup batteries if your CPAP runs on battery power.
- Secure your accessories — if you need comfort items like aloe gel or cushions for your mask, make sure that these are all packed safely nearby for easy access. Bring a few extra to be safe.
- Empty your humidifier — don’t let a wet humidifier ruin your baggage! Dry the chamber out before stashing it in your bag.
- Consider a travel machine — with all the advancements in the industry, you might look into purchasing a specially designed travel CPAP that can run off battery power and fit in your back pocket. Easy!
Consider a Travel CPAP Machine
A travel CPAP machine is a game changer when it comes to summer trips. These machines are thoughtfully designed to be as lightweight as possible while still offering all the benefits of a full-size machine.
Wondering how to choose the right travel CPAP for your needs? Here are a few customer favorites:
- DreamStation Go: a fully powered travel machine, this compact device has a built-in power supply, an intuitive color touch screen, bluetooth capability, DreamMapper sleep management technology, and even features an onboard USB port for the user to easily charge their mobile device.
- Z1 Auto CPAP: the Z1 is data-compatible with free software so you can track sleep events and compliance on the road. One of the quietest machines on the market, this slim device offers a built-in power supply and tube adapter. It’s also FAA approved for in-flight use!
- ResMed AirMini: one of the newest machines to hit the market, the AirMini offers all the trusted technology of a larger ResMed machine in a hand held device. This machine has a built-in waterless humidifier, features like AutoRamp and SmartStart technology, and even connects to the AirMini mobile app so you can track your sleep habits and monitor any changes in sleep events.
Stock Up on Supplies
The last thing you want to happen while you’re enjoying vacation is a broken CPAP due to worn out tubing, dirty filters, or a broken mask clip. If any of your supplies or accessories are due for a refresh, stock up on a few new items before you depart. All CPAP supplies require replacement and cleaning, so be sure to stay on top of your supply replacement schedule. Don’t forget to bring along some cleaning supplies, too — you will probably need some antibacterial wipes, storage bags to keep parts clean, and distilled water if you plan to use your humidifier.
Airport Tips
Boarding a plane for your summer travels? Your machine is considered a medical device and is cleared for air travel. That said, you should always check with your airline to become familiar with their procedure for checking a CPAP machine at the gate. This will save you a good bit of time and hassle once you get to the airport. It’s always a good idea to have a prescription on hand in case security needs to further check your device.
Using a CPAP during the flight will depend on your airline. Some airlines will require 48 hours of advance notice, while some have less stringent guidelines. A phone call to your airline should provide all the information that you need. For more on CPAP machines and airlines, the FAA portable electronic regulation report is a great source for traveling with your machine.
If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to research your power options and bring along the correct plug adapter. Your adapter might vary based on where you are, so it’s important to be prepared before you embark on your trip!
On the Road With your Machine
If your summer travel plans include camping, there are several battery powered CPAP machines that can provide the high quality treatment you need while going off the grid. The battery can usually be charged using a standard vehicle lighter. If you plan to camp out for a longer period of time, consider purchasing a backup battery pack — these are also handy in the event of a power outage. Some travel machines even come with a solar powered charger so you can power up your machine by day and have it ready to use that night.
Additionally, if you are on the road and need to charge your CPAP, you should bring along the proper AC adapter, which will vary based on your machine. Check with your manufacturer or reference your user guide to discover what portable power option works best for your machine.
Maximizing Sleep while Traveling
Bringing your CPAP with you during summer vacation is the best way to support your health and get restful sleep. All it takes is a bit of planning to ensure that your trip goes smoothly with CPAP in hand. Don’t miss out on the sleep you need to enjoy your vacation — get your CPAP ready for the road today!
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