With the annual Spring Break vacations right around the corner the staff at the Alaska Sleep Clinic sees an influx of patients coming in asking questions such as how do I travel when I have sleep apnea
Many of our patients admit they do not travel with their CPAP machine Patients should not let travel get in the way of their therapy Today with the increase of technology in the sleep medicine world our sleep apnea patients can now travel with easeFrom smaller therapy machines to more versatile accessories and updated FAA regulations sleep apnea shouldnt hinder your travel plans any longer
Below are 3 tips to help make travel with sleep apnea a breeze
1 PACK AS A CARRY ON
CPAP machines are considered medical devices covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act and do not count as one of your carry on items Its also a good idea to take your machine on the plane with you in the event that your luggage gets lost or damaged in transit
Use a sturdy carrying case like the Philips PAP Travel Briefcase with multiple compartments to help organize and protect your machine and accessories
There are small travel specific CPAP machines that are even more convenient and easy to carry on board If you are a frequent flyer it may be worth the money to purchase a smaller secondary machine
The TSA recommends labeling your carrying case with a medical equipment luggage tag but this is not mandatory
Download tags templates and laminate them on your own or you can purchase a laminated tag from a qualified online retailer
Keep your machine clean by placing it in a clear plastic bag before entering the TSA security checkpoints Your machine may need to be swabbed by an agent to check for explosives residue If this is the case you can ask that the agent use a fresh pair of gloves and an unused swab
2 BRING YOUR PRESCRIPTION
It is recommended by the TSA to have your prescription andor note of medical necessity from your doctor available when traveling with your machine
This will expedite the security process in case there are any questions regarding your machine This tip is especially handy when traveling internationally
In the event that your machine breaks down or you need additional supplies while traveling a copy of your prescription will help you tremendously
A legitimate Durable Medical Supplier is not supposed to sell CPAP machines without an authorized prescription So to avoid problems with purchasing supplemental equipment have that prescription ready and available
3 CHECK WITH YOUR AIRLINES
Become familiar with your airline carriers policy regarding CPAP use during your flight Many airlines will allow machines to be used in flight but can have different restrictions regarding humidifiers and other accessories
If you plan on using your sleep apnea machine during the flight check for power outlet availability on the plane On most airlines you will need to sit in first class or business class to have access to the power outlets If there are not any power outlets where you are seated make sure your machines battery is fully charged
For FAA and Airline Carrier regulations concerning onboard machine use and power supply available click the links below
FAA
Alaska Airlines
American Airlines
Delta Airlines Located under special concerns>assistive devices
Frontier Airlines
Jet Blue Airlines
United Airlines
No one on the planes crew can refuse you from using your CPAP machine on board If you find this is the case you can file a complaint with the Department of Transportation Their contact information is
Aviation Consumer Protection Division
US Department of Transportation
Room 4107 C 75
Washington DC 20590
Email airconsumerostdotgov
Your sleep apnea shouldnt hinder your travel plans Dont leave your machine at home and allow yourself to suffer at night while on your vacation Whether youre traveling for business or pleasure you want to be at your best and youre not going to get there if youre losing sleep
If you need any additional information on traveling with a CPAP machine or would like to purchase a travel specific CPAP machine feel free to contact the Alaska Sleep Clinic
