First time cpap flight

In June I'll be flying for the first time since starting cpap. What do I need to do ahead of time, as far as bringing my machine on board? It will be a one stop over flight from Boston to Hawaii.

Just put it through the scanner with the rest of your luggage. Make sure no water remains in the humidifier. If they flag it, they'll just do what they were doing until last Fall, and that is, ask you to remove the unit and re-scan it, then do a wipe test. But for the last 4 months of so, I haven't been asked to unpack my machine, so I think maybe something has changed in the TSA procedures.

My doc advised that I keep a copy of a letter from him handy for plane trips. I haven't heard of anyone say they need it, but he said it would be a good idea to have it.

hi
there is a lot of info on the forum if you search foo travel with cpap.
basically you need to carry it on.since it is an approved medical device it does not count as your carry-on or your personal item.
I was told to declare it to the person at security which i did. they opened the case and looked at it and that was it.
it is always good to have your paperwork with you just in case, and I went to the TSA site and printed the info that said cpap is a
recognized medical device.
but search here and you'll get a lot.

TalonNYC wrote:My doc advised that I keep a copy of a letter from him handy for plane trips. I haven't heard of anyone say they need it, but he said it would be a good idea to have it.

People tell you top take all sorts of docs. "Script, letter of medical necessity, TSA Regs, etc. I've flown 8 or 10 times and never needed ANY of them. Although a copy of your script would come in handy if you break or lose anything while away from home. (AT home, too, for that matter!)

Both TSA and airline folks are very familiar with CPAP now, and are getting more lax in their handling. I DO keep a Medical Equipment tag on my case...and if the flight is full, it has always gotten me "pre-boarding" so I can ensure my CPAP stays directly over my head. But you have to ask. A tag would be my only recommendation.

1. Luggage tag for your cpap carry-on - https://www.cpap.com/productpage/medica ... pment.html

2. Print out copy of TSA guidelines as backup proof that it doesn't count as extra luggage
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/ ... index.shtm

3. Bring a copy of your Rx - to show TSA or in case you need to purchase equipment while away
See also TSA treatment viewtopic.php?f=1&t=43363&st=0&sk=t&sd= ... tsa+letter

4. Gear to take along include extra hose, filters, mask and power gear (see below - including extension cord, adapters)

http://www.amazon.com/Universal-Interna ... 78&sr=8-13
http://www.amazon.com/All-One-Travel-Po ... 278&sr=8-1

Belkin makes a nice small travel size surge protector if you decide to bring one: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_ ... elkin+mini

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I flew to Hawaii (Maui) with mine with nothing more special that the medical device tag on my machine. They do usually wipe it down for explosive residue.
Never had any problems. If you have room I might take an extra mask, or just one in good shape. Never needed an extention cord, but it wouldn't hurt.
Have fun.

Thank you everyone for all your helpful suggestions. I should be all set now.