Good sleep is the secret to better health, and some studies have discovered that people with have good sleep live longer as compared to others. These are some of the main reasons why we need better sleep. Still, many people suffer from sleep apnea and often ask can I use my CPAP machine on an International flight or not? CPAP machines are considered medical devices, and airlines don’t have an issue with passengers carrying CPAP machines. In further sections, we will see what conditions you can use a CPAP machine and the applicable restrictions.
CPAP Machine Overview!
A CPAP Machine is a useful device, used to treat the serious disorder of sleep apnea. The device comes under one of the most common treatments for the problem. It helps you keep your airways open by simply delivering enough continuous pressurized air through your nose and mouth so that your breathing stays uninterrupted during the entire sleep cycle.
There are also several other types of CPAP machines, including Bi-Level PAP, Auto CPAP, and Adaptive Servo-Ventilation (ASV) machines. The complete package includes a mask, and there are various types available, such as Nasal Masks, Nasal Pillow Masks, and Full Masks. To use a CPAP machine, you have to carry out the complete setup.
CPAP at TSA!
The TSA recommends passengers keep their CPAP machines inside their carry-on bags to avoid any issues while traveling. One of the main reasons for this is if you keep it inside the checked bag, and somehow the luggage gets misplaced, then you have to travel the entire journey without your machine. So, the CPAP suggests keeping the CPAP machine inside a bin outside of its original packing, but the face mask and tubing will remain in the same case.
Checking everything from X-ray tests to explosive detection tests usually takes longer than usual. That is why the passengers are requested to visit the airport at least 3 hours prior if they are traveling on International travel with a CPAP machine. Additionally, almost every CPAP device runs on the 400Hz power supply that is usually used in every aircraft.
If anyone is wondering whether you can plug in a CPAP machine on an airplane, then here’s the answer. You can easily plug in your CPAP machine on an aircraft without any hassle, and there will be no negative effect on the machine in X-ray scanners.
Traveling with a CPAP Machine!
Almost every airline allows CPAP machines as medical devices under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and passengers can carry the device inside the aircraft cabin. In addition, the airline will not count them as cabin luggage. In case you are using a CPAP machine inside the cabin, you have to make sure that you inform the airline a few days in advance.
If you are planning to carry your CPAP machine and don’t know the airline’s policy, it’s better to check with the airline’s staff and also carry all the prescriptions and other documents showing that the device is necessary for your health.
Things To Do Before Traveling with a CPAP!
It’s better to keep an extra eye on everything you pack, your tickets, documents, airline policies, etc., when you are traveling Internationally while carrying any medical-related things with you, such as a CPAP machine. Here are some key points to remember so that there will be no issues before, during, or after the flight:
- Make sure that you pack your CPAP prescription in your CPAP packaging or case to avoid any hassle.
- Check and grab the seat that has access to power sockets so that you can use the machine even if it’s a long flight.
- Inform the airline about the use of the CPAP machine during the flight in advance.
- Keep your FAA Compliance Letter with the CPAP machine so you can show it during the check if required.
- Don’t forget to check the airline policies for CPAP machines for inflight use, as they may vary from airline to airline.
- The list of documents must be checked to avoid any hassle.
- Keep your CPAP machine with the case as a carry-on bag.
Extra Stuff To Carry!
International travel with a CPAP machine is no longer a problem. This is because the airline doesn’t have an issue with the passengers carrying the device, and the policies are not very strict as well. However, there are a few guidelines that every passenger will have to follow, and they can be easily found on the airline’s official page. In addition, you must carry an extra battery pack, power supply, mask, tubes, CPAP cleaning wipes, etc., for any difficult situation. If there is any issue, you can use the extra piece of item to tackle the problem.
Conclusion!
Hope that you got the answer to the question: Can I Use My CPAP Machine on an International Flight? However, reviewing the airline’s policies can be a good idea so that you get a clear understanding of the same. Additionally, try to keep a portable CPAP machine if you travel a lot. These are smaller in size and lower the stress of carrying them wherever you go. If you want to use CPAP on International flights, make sure you grab the seats with power sockets available. In case of any doubt, reach out to the airline’s guest care staff and fix the issue in no time!
Must Know This!
Yes, CPAP Machines are allowed on aircraft for better convenience of the passengers during the entire journey.
Yes, you can carry a CPAP machine in a place, ensuring that you carry it as cabin luggage to avoid any hassle.
You can use a CPAP machine on International Flights; however, you have to inform the airline in advance to avoid any issues at the time of departure, arrival, or during the flight.
Almost 76% of people with sleep apnea used to carry CPAP machines during long flights.
You have to check it with the airline, as the policies may vary from one airline to another.