Article · 2 min read
How to Travel with CPAP
Don't skip CPAP therapy when traveling. A sleep doctor shares essential tips for flying with CPAP, camping, road trips, and getting through TSA with your machine.
General information, not medical advice. Read our disclaimer.
CPAP · TRAVEL
Traveling with CPAP at a glance
- Always take your CPAP when you travel.
- Skipping even a few nights brings sleep apnea right back.
- CPAP is a medical device; carry it on, never check it.
- It does not count toward your carry-on limit.
- Travel-size machines and battery packs make trips easier.
Always take your CPAP when you travel. Skipping it, even for a few nights, means your sleep apnea comes right back. With a little planning, travel-sized machines and battery packs make it easy.
Why shouldn't you skip CPAP on a trip?
Traveling with CPAP may seem like a hassle. But skipping therapy, even for a few nights, means your sleep apnea returns right away. With a little planning, traveling with CPAP is simple.
How do you fly with CPAP?
Airlines classify CPAP as a medical device.
- Carry it on — CPAP is a medical device, so carry it on. Never check your CPAP in your luggage.
- Extra bag — It does not count as a carry-on bag.
- Security — Bring a bag that works well at TSA (airport security), or label it as medical equipment.
- Water — Ask your hotel or airline for distilled water.
- Travel machines — Think about a travel-sized CPAP if you take a lot of trips.
How do you use CPAP in a hotel?
- Water — Ask the front desk for distilled water.
- Setup — Place the machine on the nightstand as usual.
- Power — Bring an extension cord if outlets are far from the bed.
What about camping and road trips?
- Battery packs — Battery packs let you use CPAP without power outlets.
- Car power — Some machines have DC adapters for use in the car.
- Charging — Plan charging stops on long trips.
CPAP · TRAVEL
Tips by type of trip
| Tips | |
|---|---|
| FlyingDeciding factor | Carry it on; take it out of your bag at TSA screening |
| Hotels | Ask the front desk for distilled water |
| Hotels | Bring an extension cord if outlets are far from the bed |
| Camping | Battery packs let you use CPAP without outlets |
| Road trips | Some machines have car (DC) adapters; plan charging stops |
Watch and learn
Common questions
Can I take CPAP on a plane?
Trusted medical sources
This page follows guidance and research from leading medical organizations.
Further reading
- AASMCPAP Therapy
- Sleep FoundationCPAP Machines
- NHLBIPAP Therapy Overview
- AASMObstructive Sleep Apnea
- NHLBISleep Apnea Information
- Mayo ClinicOSA Overview