Your travel CPAP packing checklist
Whether you're heading interstate, camping or flying overseas, the goal is the same: don't miss a night of therapy. Here's the short version, then the detail below.
- Your CPAP machine — your usual device, or a smaller travel CPAP if you fly often.
- Power — wall charger plus a backup: battery pack, car charger or the right travel adaptor for your destination.
- Mask, cushions and headgear — plus a spare cushion in your size in case of wear or breakage.
- Tubing — your hose (and a spare if you have room).
- Filters — a few spare disposable filters.
- Hygiene gear — CPAP wipes, mask soap and a tubing brush for quick cleaning on the go.
- Distilled water — if you use a humidifier (or plan to travel "dry" — see below).
- Your documents — a copy of your prescription or therapy details for air travel.
Choosing a travel CPAP machine
You don't have to buy a special machine to travel — your everyday device works fine for road trips and most holidays. But if you fly regularly or pack light, a dedicated travel CPAP is smaller and lighter, and many models are designed to slip into carry-on luggage.
If you'd like therapy that adjusts to you automatically through the night, an auto-adjusting (APAP) machine is worth a look. Browse the full range of CPAP machines or compare auto CPAP machines, and talk to our team if you're unsure which suits your travel.
Not sure whether your current machine is travel-friendly, or whether your therapy settings can be carried across? Have a chat with a real CPAP consultant before you book — we'll point you to the right option.
Powering your CPAP away from a power point
Power is the part travellers most often forget. Plan for it before you go.
- Off-grid or camping — a portable CPAP battery keeps you running where there's no mains power. Check your machine's power draw and how many nights a battery will cover.
- Road trips — a car charger or DC cable lets you charge while you drive.
- Overseas — most modern CPAP machines handle a range of voltages, but you'll still need the correct plug adaptor for your destination. Check your machine's power supply rating before you travel.
Flying with your CPAP
A CPAP machine is recognised as a medical device, so it generally travels as carry-on and doesn't count as your one cabin bag with most airlines. A few tips to make it smooth:
- Carry your CPAP in the cabin, not checked luggage, so it isn't lost or knocked about.
- Keep a copy of your prescription or a letter noting it's a medical device.
- Empty the humidifier chamber before you fly, and pack it dry.
- Airline policies vary — check directly with your airline before you fly, especially for using your device in-flight or for power on board.
Spares and backup supplies
Things wear out or break at the worst time. A few inexpensive spares are the difference between a good trip and a rough one.
- A spare mask cushion in your exact size — the part that wears fastest.
- Spare headgear if yours is stretched or near replacement.
- Disposable filters — light, cheap and easy to forget.
- A spare hose if you have the room.
If you're not sure of your mask model or size, our mask finder can help, or browse current CPAP masks and replacement parts.
Keeping your gear clean on the go
Travel is exactly when hygiene slips. Pack a small kit so it doesn't:
- CPAP wipes for a quick daily clean of the mask cushion.
- Mask soap for a deeper wash when you have a sink.
- A tubing brush to keep your hose fresh.
Regular cleaning helps your mask seal well and keeps your equipment in good condition for the trip.
Order ahead so you're ready to go
Delivery times can stretch around holidays and peak travel periods, so order your travel essentials with time to spare. We dispatch orders same day when placed before cut-off, ship Australia-wide, and offer free shipping on orders over $200.
Why shop your travel CPAP gear with CDW
- Smart savings — genuine, Australian-supplied brands including ResMed, Fisher & Paykel, Philips Respironics and Löwenstein, with up to 50% off RRP and our 5% Price-Beat Guarantee.
- Real support — talk to a real CPAP consultant who can help you pack the right kit for your trip.
- Easy buying — same-day dispatch, free shipping over $200, and Afterpay and Zip available.
- Local and trusted — Adelaide-based with a physical store in Elizabeth, SA, rated 4.7★ from 987 reviews. Visit us at our store.
This guide is general information to help you plan, not medical advice. If you have questions about your therapy, settings or whether you should travel with CPAP, speak with your GP or a sleep clinician. Our clinical partner CLM Sleep offers sleep studies and clinical support.
