Cpap and converters

Most Res Med machines have a standard 2 prong plug. If yours does, a standard European plug adaptor should be all you need and should work fine everywhere in Europe. If you are possibly stopping off in the UK, you will need a UK adaptor as well. Might as well get both. They are available from the RS online store here for $1 each.

Mark! Thank you so much for this. I should be good.

You can double check the documentation for the exact model but in France I just used the prong converter for the plug on my ResMed unit. This is really true for most modern appliances. Apparently they are also rated for use on the airplane with airline voltage but I didn't even consider using it.

If you carry on keep in mind that you'll probably need to pull the machine out like a laptop at security. They are pretty common and I doubt you'll have any trouble at any major European airport but you can also print out the documentation for the FAA stuff from the website and keep it with the machine if you want something to show at security.

This was first time flying with it but the advice I got was if you carry-on then carry it in the case as your "personal" item. Judging from the number of people carrying a very familiar looking cases at the airport this is pretty common. I considered taking and extension cord because hotel plug placement can be an adventure but I didn't and it was only an issue at one place even when travelling in rural Provence.

I called my local place about the 4G cell usage was a problem and they said it was not a problem.

Have a great trip,
=Tod

benedict,

You don't need a Voltage Converter and in fact should not use one as it may damage the CPAP power supply. As you noted, the power supply is designed to work from 100-240 VAC, so you'll only need inexpensive two-pin Plug Adaptors such as THIS MODEL. You should also be able to find Euro Plug Adaptors in local stores in your area such as Target, Walmart, Radio Shack or travel & luggage stores.

It would probably be a good idea to pack along an extension cord also, as outlets in hotels in Europe are not always close to the bed. DO NOT take a power bar which has spike and surge suppressors built in!

Of course you'll have to find a source of distilled water in the places you'll be visiting. You may find this thread on that topic to be useful - https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/packing/best-travel-cpap .

Thanks much for the timely replies. I am reassured and ready to go.

Does your machine's electrical specification list something like the following?

Electrical

AC Power Consumption (with 80W power supply): 100 – 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz,
2.0-1.0 A

Note: Power supply is part of the medical electrical equipment.

DC Power Consumption: 12 VDC, 6.67 A

If it does, then your machine's power supply will convert the French 220 VAC x 50 Hz to the DC power needed to run your machine. If it is a North Amerian machine, it is likely the two flat (Type A) conductors and you will need a Type C (or Type E) plug adaptor to match the French power outlets. Since you are likely not grounded (three conductor) the Type C (two round pin) adaptor should work.

https://www.iec.ch/worldplugs/typeC.htm
https://www.iec.ch/worldplugs/typeE.htm

Your machine is fine. No converter, but do take an extension cord, as mentioned. You never know where outlets will be. That goes for North America, as well.

Check with your airline to be sure, but you should be able to carry on the CPAP as a medical device. Doing carry-on only that means you can carry on your "larger" carry-on bag, a personal item and your CPAP.

I've used a ResMed CPAP across Europe and the UK with a plug converter, an extension cord, and used just tap water instead of distilled water. The only issue was when my plug converter went bad and I finally bought another in a nearby drugstore in London. American and United Airlines consider your CPAP a medical device which doesn't count as a carry-on so you can do carry-on luggage and a personal bag like a purse or small backpack that fits under the seat. Plug converters are different in the UK and Europe and are readily available in many stores.

Husband has been traveling with a CPAP for 10+ years. No converter is necessary, just the basic plug adapter. He always brings an extension cord.

It used to be common to have to remove it from the case going through security, but not so much in recent years. It has been considered a medical device on every airline we've flown on, so it doesn't count against your carry on allowance. He doesn't bother with distilled water.

As stated before you only need a plug adapter.
Good to know: If carry on with the CPAP, Put the machine and mask and hose in plastic bags.
If security wants to check them, you have the right to request that they put on new gloves, and if they are going to swab, you can request a new clean one! If checking it, leave a note in the bags stating this!