Traveling and Flying With CPAP: TSA, Airlines, Power and Voltage

Before you go

• Pack your machine in its case with the mask, tubing, power supply, and a spare cushion.
• Bring a copy of your prescription or a letter from your clinician. It is not always required, but it can help at security, with airlines and abroad.
• Empty the humidifier chamber completely before packing so water cannot leak into the machine.
• Check the label on your power supply for input voltage. Most modern CPAP power supplies accept 100 to 240 volts at 50 or 60 Hz, which means you only need a plug adapter abroad, not a voltage converter. Confirm this on your own unit.
• Consider a travel extension cord, since hotel outlets are not always near the bed.

Airport security (TSA)

TSA allows CPAP, BiPAP and APAP machines through security. Under current TSA guidance, in standard lanes you may be asked to remove the machine from its case for X-ray screening, while the mask and tubing can usually stay in the case. You can place the machine in a clear plastic bag to keep it clean. In TSA PreCheck lanes, the device can often stay in its case. Tell the officer you are travelling with a medical device. Requirements can change, so check the TSA website before you fly.

Carry it on, do not check it

Keep your CPAP in your carry-on. Checked bags can be lost or damaged. In the United States, Department of Transportation rules under the Air Carrier Access Act say assistive devices like CPAP machines should not count toward your carry-on allowance, but it is wise to confirm with your airline, especially for international carriers.

Using CPAP on the plane

On longer flights, you may want to use CPAP while sleeping. US airlines must generally allow passengers to use a CPAP machine in the cabin on aircraft with more than 19 seats, provided the device meets FAA requirements for medical portable electronic devices (look for a manufacturer label stating it is FAA compliant) and can be stowed and used safely.

Airlines can ask for advance notice, often 48 hours, and can require you to bring enough battery power for the flight, since in-seat power is not guaranteed. Turn the humidifier off on the plane. Contact your airline well ahead of time to ask about their process.

Lithium batteries

The FAA requires spare lithium batteries to be carried in the cabin, not in checked bags, with terminals protected against short circuits. Lithium ion batteries up to 100 watt-hours are generally allowed. Batteries between 101 and 160 watt-hours need airline approval and are limited to two spares per person. Batteries above 160 watt-hours are generally not allowed for passengers. Check the watt-hour rating on your battery and the FAA PackSafe guidance before you fly.

At your destination

Bring distilled water or plan to buy it, or check what your manual allows. Keep up your cleaning routine. If you are camping or will have limited power, see our guide on batteries and power outages.