Going without CPAP therapy on the road isn’t fun. But the good news is, you don’t have to. There are several portable CPAP machines on the market, so you’ve many options from which to choose — small streamlined models like theResMed Air Mini, for example. If you’ve been on the fence about getting one, keep reading. This short guide explains some benefits of travel CPAP machines, plus some things to keep in mind with selecting a mask.
Frequent Flyer? Invest in a Travel-Sized CPAP Machine
You depend on your CPAP machine to help you get better sleep and stay healthy. Yet it may not be practical —or sometimes possible — to pack up your home machine and take it with you while traveling. Portable CPAP devices are the perfect solution whether you’re traveling by car, train, bus, or airplane. These machines provide several great advantages:
- Small size and lightweight construction
- Automatic altitude adjustments
- Auto-adjusted pressure settings
- Many power options
- Portable or waterless humidifiers
Some portable devices come with CPAP machine masks. If not, you can easily purchase one that fits your make and model.
Perfect Portability
These travel CPAP machine benefits may seem obvious, but it’s worth putting them into context. They’re small enough to fit in your hand, so they’re easy to stash in a tote or carry-on luggage. As a bonus, many models don’t require as much water for their humidifiers — some don’t even need water at all. Thanks to this convenience, you don’t have to carry an extra bottle or scramble to find clean water.
Power on the Go
Portable CPAP machines also come with flexible power options, which can be a big help if you’re traveling internationally or going off the grid. Depending on the model, you may be able to use DC power or built-in USB ports. You may want a model that switches between 100V and 240V, which lets you use a wider range of outlets.
Altitude and Pressure Adjustment
Traveling to the Mile-High City — or any other high-altitude location — can be easier with a portable CPAP machine. Many versions automatically compensate for higher and lower altitudes. You’ll find this especially helpful if you need to use yours while on the plane. With automatic adjustments, you don’t need to reset the pressure yourself.
Auto-adjustment can be helpful for one other reason: It can change to accommodate your breathing pattern. While you’ll still need a doctor to set your machine’s pressure range, it can still compensate as an automatic PAP machine can.
Minimize Your Baggage and Still Feel Safe at Night
Portable CPAP machines make traveling a lot easier. There’s less to pack, plus they offer useful features while you’re on the road. You may also need to purchase a mask to fit your device. Maybe you’re debating the AirFit N30i vs Dreamwear, for instance. Some things to consider include comfort, sizing and price. And if you’re an active or side sleeper, your mask should also accommodate movement. Together, the right portable CPAP machine and mask can help you enjoy life more to its fullest.