The Ultimate Guide to Traveling with a CPAP Machine

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About three years ago, I was waking up exhausted and unable to get out of bed- unusual for me even as a mother of two young children. I typically could still get up no matter how often I had to get up in the middle of the night. Suddenly, that wasn’t the case. My husband said he had seen me stop breathing while I slept too. My dad has sleep apnea, so I figured I did too. I made an appointment for a sleep study, and I was right. It wasn’t long after I got my CPAP machine that I had to travel (such is the life of a travel writer). I found it cumbersome and annoying, and trying to get to a store to get distilled water was a chore. Since then, I’ve traveled many times with it, and often wish there was an easier solution. I’ve chatted with some experts, used my experience, and found some of the best products to use for sleep apnea to create the ultimate guide for traveling with a CPAP machine. 

Quick Facts About Traveling with a CPAP Machine

CPAP Machines are Medical Devices

Because they are medical devices, they don’t count as extra carry-on luggage. And while that is handy, it also means you have an extra bag to cart around, which is less fun. 

CPAP Machines Should NOT Be Packed in Checked Luggage

There is no rule against packing them in your checked luggage; however, the risk of them getting lost is too significant to pack anything medically necessary, so it’s best to keep it with you. 

Distilled Water Is a Pain

Filling your CPAP machine with distilled water is the preferred method. However, that may prove difficult while traveling, especially abroad, or to somewhere you won’t have access to a store (and even finding it when you are home can be a pain). Distilled water is strongly recommended, but if you can’t find it while traveling, use purified or filtered water. The closest you can get to distilled, the better when it is unavailable. 

How to Pack Your CPAP Machine

Luckily, most standard CPAP machines come in handy carrying cases with a spot for everything, so you don’t have to worry about packing everything up safely before traveling. The only tricky part I find is packing the mask itself. The full-face one I use is a bit bulkier than they give you space for, so you have to Tetris it in a bit. 

1. Unhook the hose from the machine and wrap it up to make a loop that you can secure into your bag (mine has an elastic loop). 
2. Unplug the device and coil it up, placing it in the bag. 
3. Take the device and place it in the bag.
4.  Finally, take your mask and put it in (this may require some maneuvering, as mentioned earlier). 

Pack your CPAP in an easily accessible carry-on bag for quick inspection- if you use the carry case that came with your machine, this will fit the bill. Consider using a TSA-approved lock to secure your bag. 

CPAP Packing Checklist

• CPAP machine
• Mask
• Tubing
• Power cord
• Filters
• Travel adapter for international travel
• Battery back up
• Cleaning supplies and disinfectant wipes

The Best CPAP Machines for Travel 

If the thought of carrying around an extra bag the same size as a laptop bag doesn’t appeal to you, you have options. Keep in mind that you will need a prescription for whatever type of CPAP machine you are looking to get, and insurance likely won’t cover a second machine. 

ResMed AirMini AutoSet Travel CPAP

One of the smallest and lightest CPAP machines you will find, this one is perfect for frequent travelers. It has a built-in humidifier, is compatible with several different types of masks, and comes with a drawstring carrying case that you can easily fit into your carry-on. A huge bonus is you don’t need water for humidification when you use it! 

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Transcend Micro Auto Travel CPAP Machine

This machine is smaller and lighter than the AirMini, making it one of the most portable CPAP machines available. It is compatible with any mask and has a built-in drying function for off-the-grid use. Going somewhere that distilled water will be a challenge to find? You can get the Micro Auto CPAP AirMist HME Kit that utilizes the moisture from your breath to adjust the humidity level so you aren’t breathing in dry air without needing a water reservoir. 

Breas Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine 

This machine is one of the quietest travel CPAP machines on the market. It is easy to use, has a built-in display, and has waterless humidity technology. It’s also small enough to fit into your carry-on without taking up too much space. 

React Health Luna TravelPAP Portable Auto CPAP Machine

This machine is a good option for those who need a more powerful CPAP machine for travel. It is easy to operate from your smartphone. One downside is that it does not have humidifying capabilities.

Tips for Traveling with A CPAP Machine

Inform TSA

When in the security line, notify TSA agents about your CPAP machine and any medical needs. While it has never happened to me, be prepared to demonstrate the machine’s functionality. Only once they opened up the bag to look at the machine- but this can happen every time, depending on the TSA agent. 

Check Airline Regulations

Before your trip, check carry-on and baggage allowances for CPAP machines and accessories. Pack any paperwork or medical certifications, just in case. If you are on a redeye, ensure there are power outlets on the airplane if you plan on using your machine. If not, check to see if you have a battery backup. 

Using Your CPAP Machine On an Airplane

I have not used my CPAP machine on an airplane, even on a red eye. However, some people may want to use theirs for longer flights.  You may want to use a travel pillow for comfort and neck support, which may help you get more comfortable on the plane with your machine. If your machine uses water, ask for bottled water to put in the machine while you travel. You can use a portable purifier for extra water purification. 

Using Your CPAP Machine In a Hotel

For the most part, using your CPAP machine in a hotel is no different than using it at home. The only difference may be what side of the bed you sleep on. Sometimes (but not often), there is only one outlet next to the bed, so I had to adjust to my usual nighttime CPAP/charging devices routine. If you cannot get distilled water, use a portable purifier, or boil water and let it cool before putting it in your machine. Bottled water will also work in a pinch. 

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