Sleep apnea can be a difficult condition to deal with, but it shouldn’t deprive you of getting a safe and restful sleep. More importantly, it shouldn’t hinder you from various life experiences, including traveling to see new places and experience other cultures.
Thankfully, a CPAP machine has been designed to ensure you regain quality of life. It is a device used to treat sleep apnea, sending a steady flow of oxygen into your nose and mouth as you sleep. The question now stands—how do you travel with a CPAP machine? More importantly, is it possible?
Thanks to the best sleep apnea specialists in Jacksonville, FL, we’ve come up with this quick and easy guide to follow. A CPAP machine can be easier to handle than most devices, so read on below:
The TSA Statement
Given the importance of a CPAP machine, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows air travel for everyone who needs it. They actively encourage sleep apnea sufferers to carry their devices with them wherever they go, but ample preparation is necessary to ensure a smooth experience.
What You Can Do
1 – Plan ahead
Although traveling with your CPAP machine doesn’t necessarily mean extra special weeks of planning, it’s important to prepare well nonetheless. Doing so allows you the opportunity to make the necessary adjustments and arrangements, ensuring that your travel is easier and more enjoyable—especially since you’ll be heading towards vacation time.
Sleep apnea specialists recommend that you pack CPAP in a carry-on bag, but a checked luggage will suffice. Keep in mind that CPAP machines are deemed as medical devices, which is covered by the American’s with Disabilities Act. You will not be put on hold during the lines, and it will not count as extra carry-on luggage—it warrants its own weight and space on the plane, without any additional costs.
It’s best to keep your machine on the plane with you, as lost luggage circumstances can happen. Thankfully, newer CPAP machines are smaller and lightweight, coming with carrying cases that make traveling simple and efficient.
Note: If you travel often, however, the sleep apnea specialists of Jacksonville recommend that you purchase a machine specifically designed to be taken with you during travel. In doing so, you eliminate any possible complications.
2 – Always bring an adapter for your CPAP machine
Most hotel rooms around the world are not equipped with standard US outlets, which is why it’s important to bring your own adapter. Sleep apnea specialists further recommend that you bring extension cords with you, especially since outlets may end up being too far from your hotel bed. You can also opt to carry backup battery packs with you, especially when flying long distances.
Work With The Best Sleep Apnea Specialist In Jacksonville, FL
To learn more about CPAP machines, speak to the best sleep apnea specialist in Jacksonville, FL. Jacksonville Sleep Center is the only sleep facility in North Florida with a Board Certified Sleep Physician. We are committed to helping you improve your quality of life—reach out to us today.
