Travelling with a CPAP: flying, carry-on rules, adapters, water… the complete guide

Holidays, business trips, road trips, camping, long-haul flights… travelling with a CPAP is not only possible, it’s often recommended to avoid the return of daytime sleepiness and symptoms as soon as treatment stops. With a little planning, it’s straightforward.

In this guide, I’ll share a clear method (checklist + practical tips) to travel confidently with your CPAP: flying, airport security, carry-on rules, power supply, batteries, water, and travelling abroad.

Table of contents

Should I bring my CPAP on holiday?

In most cases, yes. Some people may be able to “skip” a night or two if necessary, but many feel the impact quickly (fatigue, sleepiness, irritability). The goal isn’t to make you feel guilty—it's to enjoy your trip without paying the price the next day.

Another very practical reason: in some countries (and depending on local reimbursement schemes/coverage rules), reimbursement or continued coverage may be linked to minimum compliance (e.g., a minimum number of hours per night and/or a minimum number of nights used over a given period). If you leave your CPAP at home for a week, your usage statistics may drop and it can complicate medical or administrative follow-up.

Based in Belgium? See our summary of the Belgian sleep apnea CPAP reimbursement scheme.

Before you go: the 5 key details to have with you

Keep these details with you (on your phone + printed if possible):

  • Your therapy pressure (or settings if you use AutoCPAP/APAP)
  • Your mask type and size + reference if available
  • Contact details for your provider / supplier / sleep clinic
  • Your insurance details (policy number + contact)
  • Your doctor’s contact details

Simple tip: save all of this in a note titled “CPAP” on your phone (or print a mini sheet). If you have a technical issue or a security check, it saves a lot of time.

Flying with a CPAP: what to do (stress-free)

1) Cabin or checked luggage?

Always in the cabin. A CPAP is a medical device with fragile components: checking it increases the risk of impact, loss or damage, and it also reduces the weight allowance available for your other luggage. Keep it in its carry bag with you.

2) Does a CPAP count as carry-on?

It depends on the airline. Some allow it “in addition” as a medical device, others include it in your cabin allowance. The best approach: contact the airline before departure and ask about their “medical device / CPAP” policy. In many cases, a CPAP can be carried in addition to your cabin bag and does not count toward the usual carry-on weight limit—but always confirm.

3) Do I need a medical letter/certificate?

Often it’s not mandatory, but it’s strongly recommended. A letter from your doctor (or sleep clinic) confirming you require CPAP therapy can make boarding, customs and security checks much smoother. Some manufacturers also mention compliance/air travel letters (e.g., FAA-style documentation).

4) Can I use my CPAP during the flight?

Sometimes yes—especially on long-haul flights—but plan ahead:

  • Request approval in advance (ideally 1–2 weeks before) and keep any written confirmation you receive.
  • Check the availability and type of power outlet on board (and whether an adapter is needed).
  • Bring a CPAP-compatible battery if you want reliable power: outlets are not always available or stable.

5) Very important: humidifier on a plane

Do not use a standard humidifier on a plane. Turbulence can cause water to spill and damage the device. Before travelling, make sure the water chamber is empty, or replace the humidifier with the side cover/cap where applicable (depending on your model).

6) Does “airplane mode” affect data transmission?

Yes. When wireless connectivity is disabled (airplane mode), data transmission is temporarily unavailable. If you’re abroad for a long time or using airplane mode for an extended period, you can inform your care team they may not receive data during your trip. Over-the-air (OTA) updates may not be available either.

7) Can my device run on aircraft power (110V / 400Hz)?

In general, modern power supplies support multiple voltages. However, depending on the aircraft, you may need a specific adapter to connect to the onboard outlet. Always check with the airline before travelling if you plan to use your CPAP in-flight.

Airport security: do you need to take your CPAP out? Are X-rays safe?

In practice, you may often be asked to remove the device and place it in a separate tray (similar to a laptop).

A simple hygiene tip: bring a large clear plastic bag to place the device in the tray. Airport X-ray scanners do not damage CPAP devices. Still, it’s wise to keep your medical letter handy, as security staff may ask for it.

Travelling abroad: plugs, voltage, adapters…

Most modern devices are compatible with a wide voltage range, but you should always check the label on your power supply. Plugs vary by country, so pack a suitable travel adapter.

Hotel pro-tip: bring an extension lead (and ideally a compact power strip). It’s common for the only outlet to be far from the bed. Without a power strip, you may end up choosing between the bedside lamp and your CPAP.

What is the best CPAP for travel? (Do you need a “travel CPAP”?)

You can travel with your regular CPAP. A travel CPAP becomes more interesting if you travel frequently: smaller size, faster setup, and often simpler battery/accessory management depending on the model.

Camping, van, boat, train: how to power your CPAP

12V / 24V, converter and inverter

When travelling by car/van/boat, there are solutions to power your CPAP from 12V/24V (with the correct converter) or via an inverter. If you’re not sure, ask your provider/manufacturer what is compatible with your specific model.

CPAP battery: how long will it last?

It depends on your pressure settings, leaks, and especially whether you use humidification and/or a heated tube. The key takeaway:

  • Without humidification: significantly longer runtime.
  • With humidification: runtime drops (even more with a heated tube).

Can I use my car battery?

It’s not recommended. Car starter batteries are not designed for deep discharge, which can shorten their lifespan significantly. And with humidification, you may drain it enough that you can’t start the vehicle.

Caution if you use oxygen + battery

If you use supplemental oxygen at night with CPAP, be cautious: some patient guidance notes that battery setups may involve risks in certain configurations. In that case, ask your specialist for advice before you leave.

High altitude: will my CPAP still work?

At altitude, air pressure decreases. Depending on the model and conditions, CPAP performance may be affected. If you’re travelling to the mountains (ski resort, trekking), plan ahead and ask for advice if you have any doubts—especially at higher altitudes.

Water while travelling: can I use bottled water in my humidifier?

Yes. When travelling—especially where tap water isn’t safe—bottled water can be a sensible option. Clean the humidifier regularly and let parts dry thoroughly.

See also our guide on which water to use in your CPAP humidifier.

Hygiene while travelling: avoid unpleasant surprises

  • Keep it simple: regular cleaning + complete drying (tube, mask, headgear) before use.
  • In warm climates, be extra careful: bacteria and mould can grow more easily.
  • Pack travel wipes for your mask.

VivaRespire travel checklist (quick & practical)

Documents

  • Medical letter/certificate stating you require CPAP therapy (ideally including device serial number)
  • Settings (pressure), mask type/size, provider/doctor contact details
  • Insurance details + emergency contacts
  • If flying: written airline approval if you plan to use CPAP in-flight

Power

  • Travel plug adapter(s) for your destination
  • Extension lead (often essential in hotels)
  • Compact power strip
  • Backup option: compatible battery / 12V–24V solution (camping/van/power cuts)

Parts & consumables

  • Mask + spare cushion (huge comfort for longer trips)
  • Spare filters (especially in dusty environments)
  • Travel wipes
  • Clear plastic bag for airport security tray (hygiene)

Useful products for travelling (keep it simple)

You can travel with your CPAP as-is. But a few “basic” accessories can save your night: outlets far from the bed, dust, forgotten consumables, power issues… Here are the essentials, from most useful to optional.

1) Power: the hotel combo that solves 90% of issues

  • Extension lead: many hotels have the only outlet behind the bedside table… or two meters from the bed.
  • Compact power strip: CPAP + lamp + phone charger (and avoids unplugging the CPAP by mistake).
  • Travel plug adapter: essential abroad.

2) Hygiene & comfort: fast and effective

3) “Plan B”: don’t let a leak ruin your trip

  • Spare cushion: the best “value” backup—if your cushion leaks, your sleep can collapse fast.
  • Backup CPAP mask (for longer trips): especially if you’re sensitive to leaks or travelling far/long.

4) Autonomy: van/camping or power cuts

5) Transport: protect the device and make security easier

  • Carry bag (often included): protects from shocks and keeps everything together.
  • Clear bag (tip): more hygienic at airport security if your CPAP goes in a tray.

“Travel kit” tip: keep a small kit ready at all times (extension lead + adapter + 2 filters + wipes + spare cushion). Then you don’t have to rebuild your checklist for every trip.

Important: on a plane, avoid using the standard humidifier and travel with an empty water chamber to prevent spills.

FAQ – Travelling with a CPAP

Can I travel with a CPAP?

Yes. The main points are ensuring power availability and protecting the device during transport.

Do I need to buy a travel CPAP?

A travel CPAP isn’t mandatory, but it can be more comfortable because it’s smaller and easier to carry.

Should I bring my CPAP on holiday?

In most cases, yes: stopping treatment can quickly bring back sleepiness and symptoms (and spoil the trip). If you have compliance requirements linked to reimbursement, not using it may also affect follow-up.

What is the best CPAP for travel?

Your regular CPAP works well. A travel CPAP is helpful if you travel often (compact + easier battery management).

Is a CPAP considered a carry-on item on a plane?

It should be carried in the cabin. Whether it counts toward your carry-on allowance depends on the airline.

How do I travel abroad with a CPAP?

Check voltage compatibility, bring a plug adapter, an extension lead, and a battery solution if you’ll be in remote areas.

Do I need a medical certificate to travel with a CPAP?

Often not mandatory, but recommended: a medical letter can make security, customs and airline discussions easier.

Do I have to take my CPAP out at airport security?

Often yes (like a laptop). Tip: use a clear bag for hygiene.

How can I fly with a sleep apnea CPAP device?

Carry it in the cabin, check your airline’s policy, and if you plan to use it in-flight, request approval in advance and confirm onboard power. Do not put water in the humidifier chamber.

Can I use bottled water in my CPAP humidifier while travelling?

Yes, especially if tap water is uncertain. Clean and dry the humidifier thoroughly.

Conclusion

Travelling with a CPAP is mainly about: protecting the device, securing power, and having the right documents. With the checklist above, you can travel without sacrificing your sleep—and your energy during the trip.

If you remember only one thing: keep a small “travel kit” ready (extension lead + adapter + 2 filters + wipes + spare cushion). That way, you don’t have to rebuild a checklist every time you travel.

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