CPAP MACHUNE

If the power supply is 115/230 you should be fine, maybe it was just a failure with the fuse? If you are concerned you could bring another converter to put between the power supply and the wall to bring it down to 115 before it gets to the machine. Also, another fuse.

If I understand your specs correctly, you shouldn't use a converter if your CPAP is already dual-voltage AND 50/60. Does it automatically adjust, or do you have to set a switch b/n 120 and 240?....N. America is 110-120/60, and Europe is 220-240/50, so perhaps your "regular converter" (not sure what that is) was the problem...You should just need a cheap plug adaptor and an extension cord is highly suggested - there may only be one very-hard-to-access wall outlet.

I also think you only need the adapter on the end of the plug if your CPAP machine is already 110/220 ready. If you are using a voltage converter, it is probably the converter that is drawing too much power and blowing the fuse. I also travel with a CPAP machine and have no problem using it without a converter. CPAP machines are use very few amps and should not be blowing fuses. While we are on the subject of CPAP machines, how do European airlines apply them to their one bag carry on rules? A CPAP machine is a medical device that is usually exempt from carry on baggage restrictions and not counted in your carry on allowance. I asked this question in the "to the boot" thread and received little response. What are the European airline rules regarding carrying on a CPAP machine?

Paul, I actually looked at Lufthansa's website (as an example) and couldn't find what I was looking for. Then, I simply Googled 'Lufthansa baggage CPAP machine' and got THIS page: "Traveling with Special Needs to/from the USA". I didn't see addressed anything referring to whether or not CPAPs counted against your carry-on baggage limit; they do have a Medical Desk (and many airlines do), so I'd check with them anyway; they can make a note on your reservation in order to hopefully prevent any 'surprises'. DO know whether your machine is on the approved list...I don't know if you were concerned with a Europe-USA flight or flights within Europe...if you travel with someone else, perhaps pack as compactly as possible with the other person, then if necessary, 'repack' after boarding the flight. And good luck...

Thanks Eileen. I am concerned about travel within Europe on budget airlines. For those unfamilar with a CPAP machine, it is basically a small air compressor used by persons with sleep apnea. It is about the size of a shoe box. It is not a problem carrying it on US airlines although it requires additional inspection by the TSA. I recent years with the increased number of travelers with CPAP machines the TSA and airlines have become more aware and tolerant of them. As I understand Ryan Air requires advance notice that you are carrying it on, a letter certifiying that it is a medical device (although mine states as such on the machine) and a letter from your doctor attesting to the fact that you are physically able to fly. A tremendous amount of overkill IMHO. If wheel chairs are exempt from carryon restrictions, why not something as small as a CPAP machine? I also find the airlines' web sites void of any advice on CPAP machines and wonder what other CPAP machine users have experienced.

Thanks, Paul, for the explanation. I thought CPAP was a typo.

I never had issues going through security stateside or in Europe. In fact I never gave it a thought. The amount of traveling using CPAP has to be in the hundreds or more. Those who do travel with CPAP in particular in Eurpoe need to pack a 6ft extension cord. One night in a small hotel in Rothenburg, the only outlet was in the bathroom I had a solution plus was able to recharge my ITouch at the sametime. My wife thought I was over packing. The standard converter bought at my local electronics store has been used throughout Europe. The only issue with my CPAP is the fact I have to use the g-dd[INVALID]m thing!

I never have a problem with security. I understand and accept the need for additional inspection of my CPAP machine. My concern is how it is considered in the European airlines' one bag rule. Only an idiot would check their CPAP machine. Can I carry it on in addition to my usual carry on bag?

Paul, you should definitely check with the airline you're considering...they're concerned with batteries, etc., and basically anything strange and unusual to them that takes time to clear. Anything you can get in writing from an official source would be great to bring with you. Some people have it noted on their ticket...Get to the airport early - at the very least you may get swabbed, etc., and you don't want to feel a time crunch. Control the stressors that you can!