Traveling with CPAP
Positive airway pressure (PAP) treatment doesn't need to interfere with your life. ResMed PAP systems are fully portable, so you can travel with them.
Air Travel
When PAP treatment is needed in-flight, please contact the airline at least two weeks prior to traveling to allow airline reservations personnel to obtain approval from the airline's Medical Services department and check whether any special requirements or restrictions apply. Follow these recommended preparations:
-
Carry a letter from your doctor certifying your need for PAP treatment.
-
Obtain approval from the airline's Medical Services for use on the flight.
-
Carry a copy of the approval letter from the airline (if they provide one).
-
-
Carry a copy of ResMed's travel letter for assistance in carrying your PAP device through security and on the aircraft.
-
Arrange seating close to a power source on the aircraft.
-
Confirm the type of power cord or adapter required by the aircraft.
Please note that many ResMed devices do not carry a label indicating their FAA approved status. Nevertheless, the devices indicated in the FAA compliance letter have successfully completed FAA testing as required for in-flight use. Final approval for in-flight usage, however, lies with the individual airline carrier.
Note: Humidifiers should not be used with PAP devices during travel, due to the increased possibility of spilling water into the tubing or into the machine.
For further questions regarding travel with CPAP, please contact us.
International Travel
ResMed PAP devices run on virtually any power supply in the world without the need for a power transformer. However, you will need a plug adapter appropriate for the country you are visiting. You can purchase plug adapters at electronics and travel stores.
Power and Battery Issues
In the US, Canada and Europe, there are no regulatory or technical reasons why you cannot use an approved extension lead and power adaptor with your ResMed unit. For all other regions, there is no technical reason preventing the use of approved power adaptors and extension cables. However, you should confirm local regulations before use.
If no AC power is available, your ResMed device can operate with DC power and an appropriate inverter. With the use of a suitable inverter, your ResMed PAP device can operate from a battery supply (eg, in a truck or recreational vehicle).
The inverter should be capable of supplying appropriate voltage and should be of sufficient capacity. If you do not have a humidifier attached, you will need an inverter with a continuous power rating of 150W. If you are using a HumidAire H2i or H3i humidifier with your PAP device, you will need an inverter with a continuous power rating of 200W, pure sine wave. Please note that you will require a spare battery. Use of the primary battery that operates your vehicle may drain the battery. Choose a deep cycle battery (used in 4WD vehicles and boats), as these are better suited to frequent discharge.
Your equipment provider can assist in your choice of a suitable inverter for your flow generator. Click on the following link to learn more about powering your CPAP device with batteries: Battery Power
You should have the following information with you when traveling:
- your treatment pressure
- your mask type and size
- your home medical equipment provider's contact details
- your sleep specialist's contact details
- your general practitioner's information
- your health insurance information
- a copy of the ResMed PAP device travel letter.
|
