traveling by train

[kenny121]

I want to take a train trip to New York from Orlando, fl. I did this many times before CPAP. Since you lose power many times during the ride, I was wondering if there is a portable battery backup for my machine (resmed escape 11). I also was told cannot be guaranteed even a coach seat with electrical outlet!The ride takes 22 hours.

[Bons]

Can't help with the battery backup, but have your doctor write a note stating that you must be able to access an electricaly outlet because of the need for cpap. That should get you the seat.

I used to travel a few times a year between WI and PA. Due to a different sleep disorder, I am not safe near other people while sleeping since I can act out dreams and/or flail my arms. My doctor wrote a note stating that I had to have an empty seat next to me for the safety of myself and others. That allowed me a full bench to myself (and pre-boarding privileges). A couple of times the conductor scoffed, but in the morning both stated that they then understood why I had the order, since I can put on quite a show while asleep.

[GumbyCT]

Good advice...
Not sure who told you what. You don't say which train line you will be on but I think you would do best to talk directly with them if you haven't. Be sure to ask if it is a connecting train that cannot be guaranteed and which leg of the trip that is. More info could make you better prepared.

O be sure to search this forum for more ideas on batteries if that is what you choose. Use the "Advanced Search" (to the right of the search box) so you can then search those results which should whittle things down for you.

[JayC]

Even getting a seat with an outlet does not solve the issue of the power cutting out at places along the route....sometimes brief, sometimes extended.....

So pursuing portable battery would be a good idea if you plan on or want to train travel or camp or such things.....

I have taken the train you mention.....and even in unreserved coach the conductors "assign" seats as we are boarding the train. I have only seen this "assigning" when traveling north on that route....was never "assigned" when boarding to travel south.... You would have to bring up this issue when making the reservation so you have a little more power behind it. And even having your own power, you would really need a window seat so people are not climbing over and tripping over your wires and cords when they get up to pee in the night. In fact, the safety of other passenger's is a great slant (and true) to get the window.....but if other medical needs people are using the outlets, you might have trouble displacing them....

I have not taken the train since starting CPAP. Flying is about the same price and shorter! I do have battery power that I can (and do) carry when I travel; haven't had occasion to use it in transit yet....

~J

[GumbyCT]

I have not taken the train since starting CPAP. Flying is about the same price and shorter! I do have battery power that I can (and do) carry when I travel; haven't had occasion to use it in transit yet....

This IS what he is looking for....care to elaborate?

My suggestion would be a Sears 1150 Jump Starter - viewtopic.php?f=1&t=47625&p=434501&hilit=+1150#p434501

[JayC]

Here is an old thread with my elaboration...and others' as well...!

viewtopic/t54269/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=50 ... 66#p496833

[Slinky]

Yes, I found it interesting that often Amtrak as was expensive as flying - especially given the TV commercials touting how many tons of freight a train can haul per gallon of fuel.

Of course that was BEFORE the airlines thought up the baggage fees and other extra fees they've managed to conjure up.

IF it is 24 hours drive or less I drive it. Stuff the airlines and Amtrak. Of course I have a navigator/companion to share the driving .... and my Olds Cierra wagon got 26/27 mpg. I'm not sure what this Hemi is gonna get on a long trip yet ....

[kenny121]

Wow! Thank you all! I will by traveling by Amtrak, checking out battery packs today.