Oxygen Concentrator [while traveling]

[shortyd]

I will be traveling for the holidays no problem taking my cpap. 
I've been on cpap for 5 years on oxygen for 3 months will be gone 4 days how has others handled this problem. 
Thanks

[Walla Walla]

A lot depends on where your traveling to and how your traveling. If by plane the easiest way would be to rent one where your traveling to.
If by car than just load up the one you have and bring it with you. The need for steady flow O2 with CPAP limits your choices.

[shortyd]

I'm going to Atlanta by plane.

[Walla Walla]

I would google Atlanta and oxygen supplies. There are several to pick from. Call ahead and see if you can have them deliver it to where your staying. You'll probably need to fax them a copy of your prescription also.

[Sleeprider]

Your DME may have an outlet at your destination. Also your supplier may rent a portable oxygen concentrator for travel. If traveling by air, approved portable oxygen concentrators are allowed, however some airlines require prior notice. All publish requirements online. If you travel frequently a POC may be something you want to buy. You may be able to use compressed liquid oxygen for uses like this, but I don't know if the canisters can be transported by air.

Airlines are allowed to carry a passenger's oxygen cylinder in the aircraft cabin in accordance with 49 CFR 175.501(e) but the passenger cannot use it. However, because a special overpack, written pilot notification, and additional hazmat training and manual documentation are required, most (if not all) U.S. airlines do not offer this service. Check with your airline before planning on carrying your own oxygen cylinder to your destination.

[stanleydean]

It's been 10 years since I flew last, my DME provided a travel size O2 concentrator that fit into my carry on luggage. At that time having the machine slowed down my security process and today that would be more complicated or maybe not allowed. For a four day trip your doctor may give you the ok to skip O2. When traveling by car I do not take my O2 concentrator into the hotel for a one night stopover but I do take it in for two or more nights or for consecutive nights at different locations. Always take along an extension cord and one of the cubes that allow more than one device to plug in to a wall receptacle.

If you or your doctor rule out skipping four nights see if your DME can handle setting you up for O2 at your destination. Depending on the cost, you may want to see if your insurance will cover all or part. 

It's good that you are looking into this ahead of time. Wishing you a very enjoyable trip.

Stan

[shortyd]

Thanks

[Mosquitobait]

As Sleeprider mentions, contact your DME first. My late Dad's DME arranged for a concentrator in Florida when he went to visit my brother. They set it up the same day he arrived. In his case, he didn't even have to pay extra - insurance covered it (arranged between DMEs apparently). Medicare and his supplemental covered 100% of his oxygen needs.

[shortyd]

Thanks