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Traveling with your PAP device

By September 25, 2023October 25th, 2023Sleep

Using a CPAP? No problem – Take that cruise or visit that beach.

You may think that your sleep therapy needs to limit how and when you travel to your favorite places and that’s not necessarily true. In fact, with some basic preparation, you can stay comforatable and relaxed with little or no disruption to your plans. So get ready and get going.

Flight

Tips for packing

1. Pack your machine, mask, and any extra supplies in a carry-on bag.

  • Make sure to completely empty the water chamber to prevent damage to the internal components of the device
  • Do not check your PAP machine with your luggage
  • Most US airlines do not count your PAP device as carry-on luggage
  • Always check airline policies
  • When traveling outside of North America, don’t forget to bring an international power adaptor

2. Clearly identify your PAP bag with a luggage tag, ribbon, etc…

Tips for the Airport

1. Check TSA.gov for the most updated information
  • You may want to print a copy of your machine’s FAA compliance letter – ResMed, React Health, Philips
2. Check your Airline’s policies on PAP devices, as they may change
3. While going through security, you may be asked to remove your PAP machine for X-ray screening. This will not damage the device

Tips for the Flight

1. If you plan on using your PAP device during the flight, please contact the airline directly to ensure the plane has a compatible power source. To inquire about purchasing travel batteries, visit https://www.adapthealthmarketplace.com

2. Always switch your machine to airplane mode during flights

At your destination

1. Do not use tap water!  Always use distilled water
2. Upon returning home, plug in your machine to automatically transmit the data collected while you were away

Remember to use your PAP device anytime you sleep on vacation.

Cruise

Tips for cruising

1. Do not pack your PAP device in any checked luggage. Make sure to completely empty the water chamber to prevent damage to the internal components of the device

2. Carry your PAP machine onto the ship with you

3. Pack an extension cord for your PAP device

4. You may need a power converter or adapter

5. You can pack distilled water in your checked luggage – most cruise lines carry distilled water that may be purchased/requested either pre-cruise or on board

6. Bring enough supplies for the duration of your cruise

7. Always check cruise line policies for answers and policies prior to embarkation

  • Royal Caribbean
  • Carnival
  • Disney Cruise Lines
  • Virgin Voyages
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Princess

8. Upon returning home, plug in your machine to automatically transmit the data collected while you were away

9. Remember to use your PAP device anytime you sleep on vacation

// Commented out for now