CPAP and Airport Clearance

[brucelegs]

I am getting ready for a 2 night trip in a week. Between juggling the carry-on, my computer bag and the Resmed bag and a small purse, I have decided to just bring the blower unit and go without the humidifier for 2 nights. Plan on just carefully popping the machine, hose and mask into the carry-on and be done with it.

[GumbyCT]

The amount of liquid you bring into the cabin of an airplane is limited to something like 3 ounces. However, if you lower the temperature of distilled water, it changes from a liquid to a solid. Ice is not restricted... You just have to make sure it doesn't change back to a liquid before you make it through security.

I have been able to get 3 - 16oz (Propel) bottles, hand labeled "Distilled" thru. It was not w/o some discussion, no doubt, but all they have to do is test it with litmus paper. I believe the screeners are permitted to use some discretion.

Yet a different screener (diff trip) would NOT allow a family sized tube of toothpaste with less than an ounce remaining, go figure.

[STL Mark]

I am getting ready for a 2 night trip in a week. Between juggling the carry-on, my computer bag and the Resmed bag and a small purse, I have decided to just bring the blower unit and go without the humidifier for 2 nights. Plan on just carefully popping the machine, hose and mask into the carry-on and be done with it.

I see your profile lists that you use the climateline hose. Take a slimline with you instead if you don't have the humidifier.

[Artcarved]

I have not travelled with my new CPAP machine, as of yet. Are there any special procedures I need to know about when clearing the TSA check point with my equipment?

I have traveled several times on American Airlines and haven't had any problems. I just put the case unopened in a tray to go through inspection. Have had no problem. When at the hotel I boil water in microwave to use in humidifier. If there is no microwave in room, usually there is one in or near lobby. If not, just purchase distilled water. I made a tag with my name and typed in Medical Equipment to attach to Cpap case.

I just came back from a cruise. The ship was local so did not have to deal with the airport. I put distilled water in a small soda bottle in my case with no problem.

[brucelegs]

I am getting ready for a 2 night trip in a week. Between juggling the carry-on, my computer bag and the Resmed bag and a small purse, I have decided to just bring the blower unit and go without the humidifier for 2 nights. Plan on just carefully popping the machine, hose and mask into the carry-on and be done with it.

I see your profile lists that you use the climateline hose. Take a slimline with you instead if you don't have the humidifier.

Oh yes, I will pull one from the stash of six back up regular hoses (crazy old DME) was also thinking of taking the travel S8 I have but I have really really gotten fond of my sweet S9 But then I think what if something should happen to my sweet S9 during my trip? Maybe I will stick with the S8 for this trip and leave the S9 at home

[davelikesbeer]

Those that are interested in carrying a little distilled water for that first night after traveling may be interested in this "work around."

Traveling to a "strange" area involves some stress. It is nice to arrive at your destination and not need to immediately find a store to pick up some distilled water. Many will simply use tap water, or bottled water, but for those that prefer distilled water here is what you do.

The amount of liquid you bring into the cabin of an airplane is limited to something like 3 ounces. However, if you lower the temperature of distilled water, it changes from a liquid to a solid. Ice is not restricted... You just have to make sure it doesn't change back to a liquid before you make it through security.

Have you actually tested this theory?

According to this website, http://www.tsa.dhs.gov/travelers/airtra ... index.shtm , it seems to be related to medications and persons with disabilities. But also on this page, you can simply bring in liquid distilled water for use in flight.

[HoseCrusher]

I travel a lot. I use this method to bring drinking water with me. I call ahead and have the motel provide distilled water in the room waiting for me when I arrive. I actually heard of it while chatting with a pilot and flight attendant about the different taste drinking water has in different areas of the country.

The TSA people start off with a questionable look, then smile and wave me on without further discussion. I will offer a disclaimer... I have only done this on 8 different flights so far and have had no problems. That doesn't mean that your efforts will produce the same results.

[chunkyfrog]

Frozen! Murphy's law would give me the guy that did not read that memo.

[Paul56]

In related news...

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,330047,00.html

[BlackSpinner]

In related news...

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,330047,00.html

Mythbusters did an episode on that

[NCHawk]

In related news...

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,330047,00.html

So the house was hit by an icy B.M.?