Camping with CPAP: The Complete Checklist and Helpful Tips

Travel CPAP machines give you the freedom to breathe easy as you explore outdoor locations and have fun camping. However, not all travel CPAP machines are built in the same way. 

5 Things to Consider When Choosing a Travel CPAP Machine:

 1. Size and Weight 

Lugging a bulky machine around is definitely not ideal for a backpack trek. That’s why travel CPAP machines have portable designs and are half the weight of their traditional counterparts.

Look for compact designs that fit easily into backpacks or store neatly in your tent. Every ounce counts when camping!

 2. Noise Level 

A peaceful night's sleep is vital, but so is respecting your fellow campers.

Ensure you only buy a travel CPAP machine that operates at significantly lower noise levels, typically under 30 decibels (similar to a quiet library). Don’t overlook the decibel level ratings when comparing models – your fellow adventurers will thank you!

 3. Power Options 

Forget scrambling for outlets – the best travel CPAPs are built for the wild. Many come with internal batteries that offer several hours of run time, and you can add  external battery sources.

Consider factors like battery life, how long you'll be camping for, and whether you can recharge on the go with a portable power bank. Remember, solar panels can also be an option for extended off-grid trips.

 4. User-Friendliness 

Setting up camp can be tiring enough. The last thing you want is to wrestle with a complicated CPAP machine.

Travel CPAPs with intuitive controls allow for quick adjustments, and easy mask disassembly makes cleaning a breeze.

Waterless humidification options eliminate the need for distilled water, which can be a hassle while camping.

 5. Durability 

The great outdoors can be unpredictable. Your travel CPAP must be tough enough to handle the bumps and jostles of travel and potential camping mishaps.

Look for a machine with a sturdy build and high-quality materials. A durable travel CPAP is an investment in your health and outdoor adventures.

• Ultra-compact and lightweight: The ResMed AirMini is one of the smallest and lightest travel CPAP machines on the market. It weighs just 10.6 oz (300 g) and measures 5.4" W x 3.3" D x 2.1" H.

• Advanced auto-adjusting pressure: The AirMini automatically adjusts pressure levels throughout the night to ensure optimal therapy for a wide range of sleep apnea severity.

• Waterless Humidification with HumidX™: AirMini's built-in waterless humidifier provides moisture therapy without needing external tanks or tubes.

• Quiet operation: With a noise level of just 27 decibels, the AirMini is one of the quietest travel CPAP machines for camping.

• Sleep data tracking: AirMini tracks sleep data, including AHI, sleep duration, and leak rate, which you can access through the SleepMapper app. 

• Sleek and stylish design: The Z2 has a modern and compact design that makes it easy to carry and store.

• Simple and intuitive controls: Z2 Auto travel CPAPs have easy-to-use controls that make them ideal for people new to CPAP therapy.

• Auto-ramping pressure: The Z2's auto-ramping pressure feature gently increases pressure levels over time to provide a more comfortable start to therapy.

• Humidification options: The Z2 can be used with a heated humidifier or a waterless humidifier to provide the desired level of moisture therapy.

• Whisper-Quiet: The travel device is super quiet (only 26 decibels), so you and everyone around you can sleep peacefully.

• Travel-friendly features: The Z2 includes a CPAP travel bag, a power adapter, and a battery pack for convenient use on the go. 

• Affordable option: The Transcend Micro is one of the most affordable travel CPAP machines on the market.

• Compact and lightweight: Weighing just 7.7 oz (218 grams) and measuring 3.6 in x 3.6 in x 2.4 in, the Transcend Micro is a highly portable option.

• Auto-adjusting pressure: The Transcend Micro automatically adjusts pressure levels throughout the night to provide optimal therapy.

• Humidification options: The Transcend Micro supports using a heated or waterless humidifier to get your desired level of moisture therapy.

• Easy to use: The simple controls of the Transcend Micro make it easy to operate and maintain.

• GentleRise and AirRelief Technology: This feature helps you drift off to sleep while the air pressure gradually builds up to the level your doctor recommended.

• Innovative design: The Luna TravelPAP features a unique design that allows you to fold it into a compact size for easy storage and transportation.

• Quiet operation: With a noise level of just 28.5 decibels, the Luna TravelPAP is one of the quietest travel CPAP machines available.

• Auto-ramping pressure: With the Luna TravelPAP, the pressure starts low and slowly increases over time. This makes it more comfy to sleep with.

• Humidification options: The Luna TravelPAP supports using a heated or waterless humidifier to provide the desired level of moisture therapy.

• Travel-friendly features: The Luna TravelPAP has a breathing tube, 3 filters, an AC power cord, a storage bag, and a printed User manual.

• Smart Connectivity App: The LightTrip app allows you to effortlessly fine-tune your Luna TravelPAP settings and track your therapy sessions.

A Travel CPAP machine is just one piece of the puzzle for a successful camping trip.

Here's a pretty robust CPAP camping checklist:

Travel CPAP Machine: 

Ensure it's fully charged and functioning well before leaving.

External Power Source:

Pack your standard power cord for campsites with good electricity. But if you're going off-grid, consider purchasing a portable CPAP battery pack with enough capacity to last the entire trip. You can also explore solar panel options for extended adventures!

Distilled Water (if using a humidifier): 

Some travel CPAPs have integrated humidifiers by default. But if yours requires distilled water, plan accordingly. Remember, you can minimize water usage with a humidifier chamber designed for travel.

Cleaning Wipes:

Keeping your CPAP equipment clean is essential, especially when camping. Pack travel-sized CPAP cleaning wipes for easy sanitizing.

Sleep Mask:

If you're not a morning person and dread waking up to the sun's rays, bring a sleep mask to block out the light and catch some extra ZZZs.

Comfortable Pillow:

Maintain your sleep routine by bringing your favorite pillow from home. Consider a camping pillow that packs down small for easy transport.

CPAP Mask Liners:

These disposable liners provide an extra layer of comfort and hygiene between your skin and the CPAP mask.

ResMed Travel Case for AirMini:

This specially designed case offers excellent protection for your AirMini travel CPAP machine during transport and storage.

Remember, the above list is only a starting point. Feel free to tailor it to your specific needs and preferences.

With the right gear and planning, you can enjoy a comfortable and restful camping trip without sacrificing your CPAP therapy.

The Best CPAP Battery for Camping

Here’s what to consider when choosing a CPAP battery for camping.

• Powerhouse Priorities

Battery Capacity: Measured in Watt hours (Wh) or milliamp hours (mAh), capacity reflects how much power a battery can store. Higher ratings translate to a longer run time for your CPAP machine. Consider the number of nights you'll be camping and your machine's power consumption to choose a suitable battery capacity.

Run Time: This directly relates to battery capacity. Look for a battery for CPAP camping that can power your machine for the entire night, with some buffer time in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Weight and Portability: Remember, you'll be carrying this battery while camping. Opt for a lightweight and portable option that fits comfortably in your backpack or camping storage.

• Battery Types

Lithium-Ion (Li-ion): These are the most popular CPAP batteries due to their lightweight design, long lifespan, and ability to hold a charge for extended periods.

Lead-Acid: Lead-acid batteries are generally heavier and bulkier than Li-ion options. However, they may be a more affordable choice, especially for occasional camping trips.

• CPAP Battery Comparison

There are a variety of portable CPAP batteries on the market, each with its strengths.

Here's a table comparing some popular options that are compatible with almost any portable CPAP for camping: