# Traveling With CPAP: What to Pack and Expect > Flying, hotels, power and water: a practical packing list for CPAP travel, plus what security and airlines actually ask. Canonical: https://findsleepdoctors.com/articles/traveling-with-cpap-what-to-pack Last updated: 2026-10-30 Traveling with CPAP? Pack it in carry-on, bring a travel letter, check power and water rules, and keep a backup mask. Here is the practical guide. Updated 2026-10-26 · 7 min read · Sleep Doctor Near Me editorial. **Quick answer:** Keep your CPAP in your carry-on, never in checked luggage. Bring a travel letter, a copy of your prescription, a spare mask or cushion, and a plug adapter if needed. Most machines accept 100–240V, but check the label. Security may ask you to remove the device from its bag; that is normal. Do not rely on distilled water being available at your destination. ## Before you book Check the airline's rules for medical devices. Most major airlines allow CPAP as carry-on in addition to your cabin baggage, but the exact policy varies. Ask for a letter from your clinician if you need documentation. If you use a battery, check the airline's rules for lithium batteries and whether the battery is allowed in the cabin. If you are flying long-haul, consider how you will power the machine and whether you need a humidifier. Cabin air is dry; some people use a smaller travel humidifier or a nasal saline spray. ## What to pack - CPAP machine and power supply - Mask, hose and a spare cushion or pillow - Filters and a small cleaning kit - Travel letter and prescription copy - Plug adapter and, if needed, a voltage converter (check the machine first) - Extension cord or power strip - Battery or backup power for flights or outages - Distilled water if allowed, or a plan to buy it - Nasal saline or a small humidifier Label the bag with your name and contact details. A medical device tag can help at security. ## Airport security CPAP machines are medical devices and are allowed through security in most countries. You may be asked to remove the machine from its bag and place it in a bin. The X-ray is not harmful to the device. If you are uncomfortable, ask for a manual inspection. Do not put the machine in checked luggage. Bags get lost, delayed or damaged, and a replacement is expensive. The same applies to your mask and power supply. ## On the plane Using CPAP on a flight is not the same as using it at home. Airline power outlets may not support the device, and battery rules vary. If you plan to use it in the air, confirm with the airline in advance and bring a battery that meets its rules. For most people, a short flight does not require CPAP, but a long-haul flight might. If you sleep on the plane without CPAP, expect worse sleep and possibly more symptoms. Plan for a rest day after arrival. ## Power and voltage Most modern CPAP machines have an external power supply that accepts 100–240V, 50/60Hz. Check the label on the power brick, not just the machine. You usually need a plug adapter, not a voltage converter. If the supply is not dual-voltage, you need a converter rated for the machine's wattage. Humidifiers and heated hoses draw more power. Some travel machines have a lower-power mode. Ask the supplier for the correct accessories. ## Water and humidity Distilled water is recommended for humidifiers in many manuals because it reduces mineral buildup. It is not always available in hotels or airports. You can use bottled distilled water if you find it, or travel without the humidifier for a short trip. Do not use tap water if the manufacturer advises against it. If you are flying, security rules for liquids apply. A small amount of water may be allowed for medical use, but check the local rules. It is usually easier to buy water at the destination. ## Hotels and altitude Ask for a room with a accessible power outlet near the bed. Bring an extension cord if you are unsure. A white-noise app or earplugs can help with unfamiliar sounds. At high altitude, some machines may need pressure adjustment because the air is thinner. Ask your clinician before traveling to a high-altitude destination, especially if you have severe apnea or heart or lung disease. ## Backup plan If your machine fails, you need a plan. Bring a spare mask cushion and hose. If you use a travel machine, make sure it is set correctly and that you have a copy of the settings. Some suppliers offer emergency loans; ask before you go. If you are traveling for weeks, consider shipping supplies ahead or finding a local supplier. Our guide to the [best travel CPAP machines](https://findsleepdoctors.com/articles/best-travel-cpap-machines-2026) covers device features. For treatment basics, see [getting started with CPAP](https://findsleepdoctors.com/articles/cpap-therapy-getting-started). ## What to do if you forget something Most hotels can help with a power adapter or a late checkout. A local pharmacy may have saline spray. If you forget the machine entirely, contact your supplier or insurer about a temporary rental. Do not buy a random machine without a prescription and settings. If you are away for a long trip, our [sleep doctor directory](https://findsleepdoctors.com/sleep-doctor-near-me) can help you find a local clinic for advice. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Can I take my CPAP on a plane? Yes, in most cases. Keep it in your carry-on and bring a travel letter. Airlines generally allow medical devices, but policies vary. Check with your airline before you fly. ### Does CPAP count as an extra carry-on? Many airlines allow a CPAP machine in addition to your standard carry-on because it is a medical device. Ask your airline for its policy and get confirmation in writing if possible. ### Can I use tap water in my CPAP humidifier while traveling? Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Distilled water is often recommended to reduce mineral buildup. If you cannot get it, a short break from the humidifier may be better than using water the manual advises against. ### Do I need a voltage converter for my CPAP? Check the power supply label. Many accept 100–240V and only need a plug adapter. If it is single-voltage, you need a converter rated for the machine's wattage. ### Can I use CPAP on a long-haul flight? Possibly, but you need airline approval, a suitable battery and a plan for power. Not every seat outlet supports CPAP. Ask the airline and your equipment supplier before relying on it. ### What if my CPAP breaks while I am traveling? Contact your supplier or insurer about a temporary replacement. Bring a spare mask cushion and hose, and keep a copy of your prescription and settings. A local clinic may be able to help. *This article is general information, not medical advice. It does not replace an assessment by a qualified clinician who can review your history, medications and test results.* ## Related guides in this series - [Sleep Doctors in Edina, Minnesota: How to Find the Right Specialist](https://findsleepdoctors.com/articles/sleep-doctors-edina-mn-us) — Edina, Minnesota lists 8 sleep providers and centers in the Find Sleep Doctors directory. This guide explains how to compare them, what to expect, and how to prepare before booking. - [Sleep Doctors in Helena, Montana: How to Find the Right Specialist](https://findsleepdoctors.com/articles/sleep-doctors-helena-mt-us) — A directory guide to 8 listed sleep providers and centers in Helena, Montana, with contact details and practical booking questions. - [Sleep Doctors in Burnsville, Minnesota: How to Find the Right Specialist](https://findsleepdoctors.com/articles/sleep-doctors-burnsville-mn-us) — This guide lists eight sleep providers and centers in Burnsville, Minnesota, with addresses and phone numbers from the Find Sleep Doctors directory. It also explains how to compare options, plan a visit, and prepare questions for a sleep medicine appointment. ## Ready to find a sleep doctor near you? Browse sleep medicine doctors across six countries, organized by region and city, and reach out directly — all in one free, verified directory. See [all countries and cities](https://findsleepdoctors.com/sleep-doctor-near-me). This medical guide reflects generally accepted clinical guidance for sleep disorders. It is informational and not a substitute for personalised medical advice — consult a qualified sleep specialist or your GP. ## Related - [All sleep health guides](https://findsleepdoctors.com/articles) - [Home](https://findsleepdoctors.com/) - [Country and city index](https://findsleepdoctors.com/sleep-doctor-near-me)