Air travel with cpap

[Josiah]

My DME tech told me I HAD TO take my cpap device as carry on luggage as opposed to part of my check through suitcase. Is that true?

[Pugsy]

You don't HAVE to do anything if you don't want to.

Taking it as part of your carry on is usually the desired thing to do just like taking any medications or anything you wouldn't want to be without and isn't easily replaced might be.
Checked luggage can/does get lost and/or damaged.
How easily could you replace your machine if it got lost or damaged in transit?

[chunkyfrog]

Checked luggage can also get STOLEN.
Some thieves are targeting the conveyor, due to poor security.
Only check things you can easily replace.

[Wulfman...]

My DME tech told me I HAD TO take my cpap device as carry on luggage as opposed to part of my check through suitcase. Is that true?

Your DME tech is sort of on the right track, although if he worded it that way, it might have been a little strong.
However, medical devices don't get counted as "carry-on" and since you wouldn't want it either being stolen from the checked baggage or sent to some other destination when you needed it with you, it's always been advised to take it as carry on.


Den

.

[Janknitz]

In the US it does not count as an extra carry on bag. It's the best way to make sure it's safe and properly handled.

[mrsmccalmont]

I have successfully traveled with my machine, it does not count against you as a carryon. Super simple and I did not run the risk of it being lost.

[cant_sleep_in_nj]

I fly weekly with my cpap for the last 10 years. 2 flights per week minimum and only had an airline lose my bag once. (only fly domestic) in my opinion its perfectly safe to pack it in your bag and check the bag, thats the only way for me.. im way to lazy to carry anything more than my laptop or tablet in airports

[SolisQuaesitor71]

In the UK my Sleep Doc at the hospital told me that if i go on holiday (which i am in March Woohoo!) i have to take my Cpap as carry on luggage. The machine states on the bottom that it's certified medical equipment.