You are a CPAP machine patient and you are planning to travel? How you can carry your massive CPAP machine with you? The answer is you cannot. Instead, you can get a travel CPAP and get similar functionality and similar type of help while traveling. Below, we will explain the matter in detail.

Travel CPAP Machines: Basics and Insurance Coverage

A travel CPAP machine is a small can compact version of the full-size machine you have at home. It can weigh up to 2 pounds and can be carried with you at all times. These machines come with basic features and all of them are FAA and TSA approved.

A CPAP machine of this type is much smaller, hence it comes with a smaller battery and a small mask. They are designed to be used for short periods of time and they don’t have a humidifier option present. A good thing is that you can place the CPAP sanitizing travel bag in your backpack and use it literally anywhere in the world.

These machines are not covered by insurance. They are more considered as an accessory and as such you will probably have to get one on your budget. When it comes to price, these are reasonably affordable and obviously far more affordable than the full-size CPAP machine you have at home.

Factors to Consider When Looking for a New CPAP Travel Machine

There are almost countless CPAP travel machines out there. They are not all the same and they do come with various features, differences and etc. To find the best option for you and your needs, you should pay close attention to the factors explained below.

Total Weight

The first thing is obviously the weight. As we have mentioned, many of these models are around 2 pounds in weight, but this can not be generalized. The weight comes in many options and as always it is important to get the one that suits you the most. Here is the top tip. If you are planning short-distance traveling, you can get a heavier machine. It will have better battery life, better capabilities and offer better quality. It will behavior as well. If you are planning long-distance traveling, you do need a lightweight CPAP machine. New models are up to 1 pound in weight which is impressive. They are also smaller meaning you will have more space to pack other items in the bag.

Battery

The battery will determine the period of time during which the machine can be used. Despite they are small, modern CPAP machines for travelers can provide up to 8 hours of battery life. This is a great option. But, those are expensive and usually larger. If you don’t need 8 hours of battery life, you can opt for a smaller version with a shorter battery life. It is up to you.

Powering the Machine

Here is an interesting factor. How and where you will power the travel CPAP machine? Many of them use batteries and this is ideal if you will use ours while camping or while in the woods. You may also want to consider models that come with a car lighter charger. Then you can obviously be powered using your car.

Almost all of the aforementioned versions do come with a regular adapter. But, which type of plug it is? If you are planning to travel all around the globe you will see that there are several types of wall power outlets. You have the US, EU, UK, and many others. In that case scenario, you will need a charging adapter that can be used for all of the mentioned wall outlets.

RAMP Feature

Ramp feature allows your CPAP machine to start with low air pressure and then gradually increase it as you sleep. It isn’t common on travel CPAP machines but it is present. The feature is ideal and probably a must-have for all patients who have a hard time falling asleep while using this kind of machine.

Humidifier Option

Although humidifier isn’t available for most travel CPAP machines, some new models are able to include it. Another option is to get a separate humidifier and use it alongside your CPAP machine. Keep in consideration that you should do this if the humidifier is a mandatory addition to your CPAP machine. It will add weight and it will make your machine bigger.

Noise Level

Travel CPAP machines also make noise while operating. It is perfectly normal. But, some early models were too loud and many patents had a problem with that. In order to make sure this doesn’t happen to you, look for the dB on the package or in the product description. 30 dB is the average result. These machines are quiet and they make the same noise as small fans.

Maintaining the Travel CPAP Machine

In a nutshell, a travel CPAP machine is a smaller version of the one you have at your home. This means that you must maintain it properly as well. The superb solution is PrimeClean. It is a small, portable and extremely lightweight tool that will clean all the needed elements of your CPAP machine anywhere in the world. You can carry it while traveling and it is suitable for machines of this kind. You can even use it for cleaning the full-size CPAP machine you have back at home.

Conclusion

Travel CPAP machines are must smaller, more compact and more affordable than full-size versions. They are designed purely for traveling and use in different locations. They are also more than just needed and can be the ultimate solution for patients who cannot sleep well while traveling.