Traveling with CPAP machine
 

My husband uses a CPAP machine. We have only traveled in the US with it. Any problems going thru security with it when heading overseas? And if you've used one in Switzerland or Belgium (the two countries we will be going to), any problems using it there?

I hit send before I finished typing....what type of adaptors/converters will we need to use with the machine?

It depends very much on what your particular model needs. Somewhere on the cord or on the machine or in your users manual, there is supposed to be an input power specification, something like "120v 60hz," etc.
If you can post this info, you will get more meaningful response on what you need. Or inquire the manufacturer.

For example, newer Respironics or Resmed models for example, are ready to plug overseas with just a plug adaptor, while older models may be totally incompatible overseas or needs a voltage (heavy) converter.

It's a Remstar Plus by Respironics - model number 1005960. Thanks.

I thought you were talking about a medical device.

It is a medical device, of sorts. My sister-in-law uses a CPAP machine. It's used by people who don't breathe normally when they're asleep. A CPAP machine just insures that, while that person is sleeping, he or she is getting enough oxygen.

When my sister in law visited us here in England back in August, she just made sure to have a note from her doctor explaining what the CPAP machine is for, in case anyone in security had questions. She said she was only asked about it once during the whole trip over here, and not one time on the way back to the US.

As far as converters/adaptors.....we have a large transformer, since we have a lot of small American appliances and an American computer, and my SIL just used that while she was here. So unfortunately, I can't help you with that question.

Hi orange,

There should be a label on the device that lists the power requirements. If it is dual voltage it will say "120 - 210 V" "50 - 60 Hz". If not it will say "120 V, 60 Hz".

If it is dual voltage you will need plug adapters that convert your US plug to those for your destination. I suggest you bring the device with you when adapter hunting. Try Radio Shack.

If it is US voltage only, you will need a voltage converter as well as an adapter. You should be able to get a small one that handles about 1600 Watts (Watts is the product of the voltage and amperage listed on the label.)

I don't think you'll have an security problems. I read a note on Rick Steves' Graffiti Wall from a person who simply takes her machine on the plane as a piece of carry-on luggage. As others have said, you'll need a plug adaptor and a converter/transformer (unless your machine has a built-in converter). Wattage requirements determine what kind of converter/transformer you'll need. See www.voltagevalet.com for a thorough explanation.

"You should be able to get a small one that handles about 1600 Watts"

I have one. I bought it for my 1600 Watt blow dryer. It's about the size of a brick half and weighs 5 to 7 pounds. When I realized how much weight it added to my luggage, I decided to buy a blow dryer abroad. It's a great converter, just too heavy for me. orangetravelcat may have no other choice.

carnie ((D))

Hi carnie,

Mine was a kit with a convertor and eight different plugs. Total weight <12 oz.

Unfortunately, after 30 years of travelling with me, my dear wife left it in Florence.

Since all of our electrical devices are now dual voltage anyway, I just bought a adapter.

Miss the old converter, though.

i use a bi-pap machine, which is just slightly different technology...i have travelled the world with it and not experienced any problems....my machine makes the transition from a/c to d/c automatically....you will need plug adapters like using any american electrical device in europe and you may see that the machine operates at a slightly different noise level...
my biggest problem is to get an extension cord so that i can use it by the bed, as some hotels do not have plugs near the bed....most hotels can accomodate, but not all....you may have to go to a hardware store and buy one...

also sometimes the maids take the cord back to the storeroom when cleaning up...one maid broke a plastic connection on my tube so now i am very careful to put the tube and headgear in a drawer each morning...

i have a letter from my doctor explaining the need for the machine and that it is medically required...noone has ever asked to see it..

you won't have problems

Thanks for your input. The suggestion of taking an extension cord is a good one and something I never would have thought of.

orangetravelcat--

I also travel now with a C-pap-and take a letter from doctor-
Do not have any problems going thru security whatsoever...

Also bring a long extension cord with you along with the converter..Some of the older hotels may not have a wall outlet closeby ( aside from the one for the bed lamp)...and you may need to put the machine on a chair or the floor and connect it to the outlet..so the extension cord sure helps..