Packing itself can be a little more of a challenge with a CPAP machine if when flying. It is not recommended to pack the CPAP machine with the checked luggage. We have all heard of people and their checked bags being separated, and not being reunited for days, or even weeks. It is safer for the machine to be with you, and if you are on an international flight that may go overnight, look into seats located near a power source. There are cords available to plug in the machine on overnight flights. It may also help to pack an extension cord for those hotel rooms without an outlet near the bed.
The Department of Transportation has a limit of one bag and one personal item as carry-on though this does not include medical equipment. Consider getting a letter from your physician explaining your need for the CPAP to avoid a security hassle.
There may be only certain CPAP machines which are approved by the Airline in which you will be travelling with to Aruba. For example, in America, the FAA-Federal Aviation Administration has a list of brand CPAP machines they allow onboard so be sure to check with your Airline before travelling.
At the Airport
It’s always handy to travel with your physicians note specifying you require this medical equipment so that you may have not hassles at the airport. Airport personnel will inspect CPAP machines during your security screening, and you will need to remove the machine (not the face mask or tubes) from the carrying case and allow it to be X-rayed. A CPAP machine also needs to be physically inspected and tested for explosive trace. If you are concerned about keeping the machine clear, you can place it in a clear bag before placing it in the bin to be X-rayed. You also have the right to request that TSA personnel wear clean gloves during the inspection, clean the table where the machine will be tested for explosive trace and change the explosive trace media before testing
Using CPAP on the Plane
You are allowed to use a CPAP aboard a plane, since it is a medical device. You will need to be seated in first class or business class to have access to a power outlet called an EmPower outlet. For this you would need a DC power adaptor. The power connections are found on may commercial airlines and will be handy to connect to these during flight. Travelers can buy EmPower adapters, frequently fromduty free shopsat airports that allow them to run laptops and other electronic equipment without using battery power
Using CPAP while in Aruba
In Aruba Power voltage has the same standard as North America (110 volts). For those countries with standards of 220volts, you would need to use a power converter as well as power plug. The newer machines have universal power supplies which regulate for different voltages you might come across. Older machines will probably have a switch to make them compatible with 240-volt power. Otherwise, a power adapter will allow your CPAP machine to run off the available power system.
It is important to know how long your CPAP batteries last. Some batteries allow you to run the machine for up to 24 hours, depending on the humidifier being used or if the tubing is heated. These attachments can drain battery power faster than if you are solely using the machine.
In case you may have forgotten some of your CPAP accessories such as your CPAP tubing or CPAP masks you can contact Essential Health Supplies in Aruba at 297-587-0940 ore email info@essentialaruba.com. Essential Health Supplies is provides medical equipment and supplies and have a variety of these CPAP items in the retail location which is close to the hotel area at Caya Dr. J.E.M. Arends 17-A. Oranjestad Aruba. www.essentialaruba.com
About Essential Health Supplies
Essential Health Supplies caters to travelers and islanders alike who require mobility equipment, medical and health supplies in Aruba. Conveniently located adjacent to Aruba’s main Hospital and minutes away from most Hotels, Essential carries a diversity of medical equipment for sale and for rent for travelers with disabilities or injuries or merely for travelers requiring more accessibility. Essential offers a quick and convenient option delivering all rentals free to all Hotels, including evenings and weekends. Essential is open Monday thru Friday 8:30 am to 6:00 pm and Saturday from 10am-2:00pm. To contact or book a rental call (297)587-0940 or for emergency services during off hours call (297) 563-0415. For online booking visit www.essentialaruba.com or write to info@essentialaruba.com.
