As we move into the warmer months a lot of us are gearing up to travel. If you're a CPAP user, your packing protocol will probably include everything you'll need to stay well rested during your trip.
Here are a few things we think are well worth knowing about traveling with your CPAP throughout the year:
Don't leave your CPAP machine at home
Even the best of us let a few things go when we're traveling but letting your CPAP therapy slide shouldn't be one of those things.
Your CPAP machine only helps you when you use it, and even just a week without therapy can lead to a backslide. Swiss research1 showed that obstructive sleep apnea returned within days after stopping CPAP therapy, as did subjective sleepiness.
Inconsistent use has been a long and stubborn trend with CPAP users—another study from 20162 found that, over a period of twenty years, the rate of patients who didn't adhere to therapy was 34.1 percent.
One of the reasons CPAP compliance has been such a persistent problem? CPAP machines are notoriously difficult to maintain. That's what inspired us to create SoClean, which makes the process of using and maintaining a CPAP machine easy*, so more patients feel empowered and equipped to stick with their therapy at home as well as on the road.
Carry on your CPAP equipment when flying
We've all had experiences with checked luggage that make us wary of towing anything important along on a trip. The good thing about your CPAP: You can keep it with you on the plane. You'll have to purchase distilled water for it after you land, however, as you can't bring liquids with you through security.
Airlines are required by federal law to allow passengers to carry on medical devices3, like a CPAP machine, breast pump or insulin pump. And since you don't want to risk lost luggage with something this important, it's a good idea to include your CPAP with your carry-on items. If you're concerned about people touching it, you can store it in a clear plastic bag. TSA employees deal with devices like yours every day, so you're not bringing any surprises.
Should you have any questions or concerns about flying with your CPAP machine, the TSA has a helpline: 1-855-787-2227.
Pack extra peace of mind with backup supplies
Especially if you're planning to be away for a semi-extended stay, consider bringing along extra CPAP supplies—mask cushions, tubing, an extra mask and power supply if you can, a backup portable battery if you have one. If you're not sure about outlets where you're staying, it doesn't hurt to bring a power strip and/or extension cord, either. You may not end up using any of your backup supplies, but if you did need any of them in a hurry, it could be a hassle or an expense (and likely both).
Make maintaining your CPAP on-the-go a priority
Packing is a headache, and it's understandable to feel a little extra stress about bringing your CPAP machine and everything you need to keep it functioning and clean. You can bring easy solutions with you on the go like CPAP Wipes and a mild soap.
It's important to keep up with your CPAP therapy while traveling, and we hope these tips can help make that a little easier.
References
- Science Daily, Withdrawal of CPAP therapy results in rapid recurrence of OSA
- NIH, Trends in CPAP adherence over twenty years of data collection: a flattened curve
- TSA, Nebulizers, CPAPs, BiPAPs, and APAPs
*SoClean is not a replacement for handwashing. Always follow the CPAP manufacturers instructions for maintaining your CPAP equipment.
