CPAP Vacation Planning: Don't Leave Your Sleep at Home
You deserve a vacation. You also deserve to feel good during it.
Leaving your CPAP at home means coming back more tired than you left. Here's how to plan.
Before You Go
Equipment Check
One week before:
- Inspect mask and cushion
- Check tubing for wear
- Pack extra filters
- Ensure machine is working well
Tip: Don't start a trip with equipment that's almost due for replacement
Packing List
Must have:
- CPAP machine
- Mask and headgear
- Power cord
- Tubing
Smart to bring:
- Extension cord
- Travel adapter (if international)
- Extra cushion
- Extra filters
- Copy of prescription
Power Considerations
International travel:
- Check voltage (most modern CPAPs are dual voltage, 110-240V)
- Get appropriate adapter for plugs
- Don't use voltage converter (usually not needed)
Camping/no power:
- Battery options exist
- Consider travel CPAP with battery
- Plan ahead, batteries need charging
Flying with CPAP
TSA Rules
Good news: CPAP is medical equipment and doesn't count as carry-on
At security:
- Inform TSA officer
- Machine can stay in bag or be removed
- May get additional screening
- Never need to turn it on to prove it's real
Carry-On Required
Never check your CPAP. It can be lost, damaged, or stolen.
Put in:
- Dedicated carrying case
- Or your personal item slot
In Flight
You can use CPAP on long flights:
- Most airlines allow it
- Need to use your own battery or FAA-approved power
- Notify airline in advance
Hotel/Vacation Rental
Setup
First night:
- Set up before you're tired
- Check outlet location
- Test that it works
Water
For humidifier:
- Use distilled water (or bottled if distilled unavailable)
- Some people skip humidifier for short trips
- Don't use tap water in unfamiliar places
Cleaning
On trip:
- Wipe mask cushion daily
- Empty humidifier water
- Full cleaning can wait until home (short trips)
Altitude Changes
Going to high altitude?
- CPAP may need adjustment
- Auto-adjusting machines adapt
- Non-auto machines may need provider guidance
Symptoms at altitude:
- May need more pressure
- May feel different
- Usually temporary adjustment
Special Situations
Camping
Options:
- Battery-powered CPAP
- Travel CPAP with battery
- Very short trips: may go without (not ideal)
Planning:
- How many nights?
- Battery capacity needed
- Charging options
Cruises
Generally easy:
- Have power in cabin
- Bring everything you would for hotel
- International adapters if leaving US ports
International
Consider:
- Voltage compatibility
- Plug adapters
- Prescription copy (in case of questions)
- Travel insurance that covers medical equipment
Common Mistakes
"I'll skip it, it's just a few nights"
Reality: You'll feel awful, ruin your vacation, and risk your health
"I'll check it"
Reality: Lost luggage means no CPAP. Never check.
"I forgot my prescription"
Reality: Might need it if equipment fails. Take a photo at minimum.
"Tap water is fine"
Reality: Mineral content and unfamiliar bacteria. Use distilled/bottled.
Coming Home
Post-trip:
- Clean everything thoroughly
- Check for any damage
- Replace anything worn out
- Get back to routine quickly
Track travel nights in Drift. Compliance counts even on vacation. [Log in →](/patient/login)