Cpap machine while traveling

The big question is if your CPAP machine can accept dual voltage. If not, you would probably need to buy a transformer. Not one of the ineffective plug-in models sold at travel stores, but the actual large, heavy models used for devices and appliances that require continuous use for hours at a time.

Thanks, but can I use it in hostels? Is there electricity in the rooms? Would I have to pay extra for the extra electricity?

Almost certainly, yes, you can use it, and no, you won't get charged extra for the electricty consumption. But this is a moot point if your device can not operate on the different voltage standards in Europe.

Even in hotel rooms, you often need an extension cord to use a CPAP machine, since the outlets may not be near enough to the bed. In a hostel, I foresee this being an even bigger problem. I'd check with each place you are thinking of staying (e-mail them directly) to see what they say. They may have a suitable outlet near the bed, or a long extension cord, or you may have to bring an extension cord or buy one locally.

But Tom is right - first make sure your CPAP is multi-voltage. To do this, look at the "Input" on the power "brick" and see if it says both "100-240 volts" and "50-60 Hz." If it does, you're set. If it doesn't, you will either need the proper kind of transformer (and as Tom says, this may be very large and heavy) or a new CPAP for travel.

Thanks, both of you. Harold, wow hadn't even thought about extension cord. Something else to think about for weight in the case. Also, thanks for the idea to look at the brick. I won't even begin to think of that. Looks like I have more research to do.

One more question. Can the transformer be purchased there? We will be starting out in Germany.

Most cpaps nowadays are dual voltage, so you most probably won't need a voltage converter. Check the power pack and call your manufacturer to be sure. You will need a plug adapter and to carry an extension cord. Are you planning on a single room? Is yours super quiet? (FYI, If so, it's probably a new dual voltage.)

Edit: Resmed are also dual voltage. And, Lo is right, you'll need to be sure there's a table for the machine next to your bed.

This site is terrific! In less than 24 hours I have answers I have searching for for weeks. Thanks each of you.

My husband travels, both domestically and overseas, with his CPAP. It is 1.5 years old and has dual voltage. It is a Phillips Respironics System One like this: http://www.cpapsupplyusa.com/Respironics-System-One-Auto-CPAP-Humidifier.aspx. The 110/220 is built in and automatic. If you go to the link and click on "specifications" you can see that. Also at the link there is a picture of the apparatus and its travel bag. The little box on the left in that picture IS the transformer.

I see more and more people carrying those on planes. They are considered to be a medical device and are allowed to be carried as "extra" cabin baggage. I confirmed that with Turkish Airlines as well as Aegean for our trip this fall. Depending on which TSA agent he gets here, he may or may not have to open up the thing when going through security. He puts his meds in the CPAP bag, along with a European extension cord we bought there last year and a USA to European plug adapter.

He does use the humidifier and we do buy distilled water for it in Europe, but he can use bottled water in a pinch. He also uses nose pillows, not a mask that covers his nose. Previous discussions about CPAPs, many in the technology forum, have lots of information about traveling with them.

Yours is the first question I've seen addressing the issue of electrical outlets for one in a hostel. We've never stayed in a hostel, but we do require an electrical outlet near the head of the bed for any room we get, along with a table of some kind to set the thing on. That is something I have to stare at room pictures to see and verify with lodging hosts before we book. It may be tedious to do it, but the advice to contact the hostels directly about the issue is good, and be sure to stare at the pictures and ask the same question of the non-hostels as well.

"Can the transformer be purchased there? We will be starting out in Germany. " Yes, but... in order to provide steady-state performance over a long period of operation (ie, all night long) and not to damage your device, you would need a proper household transformer, not just the nearly-useless little things they sell in travel stores. The smallest of these are about the size and weight of a 19th century cannonball. Probably not convenient to lug around on your trip. Therefore, check to see if your device is dual-voltage, and if not, try to obtain a model that is.

Thank Lo. What type store did you get the extension cord. Also, where did you get the distilled water?

"where did you get the distilled water?" Grocery stores. Rewe, Edeka, Aldi, Lidl and Real are some of the most common chains.

"What type store did you get the extension cord" Try Saturn, Mediamarkt (like Best Buy) or Bauhaus (like Home Depot). Saturn tends to have stores closer to the city centers, where most tourists are likely congregate.

Hostels will have electrical outlets, but given the number of travelers who now need to charge their electronic devices every day or two, everyone will want a turn using the connections in shared rooms. Hostels may or may not have updated to add more outlets near each bed. If you buy a power strip - extension cord in Europe, you would could pretty much guarantee that yours gets plugged in, and increases others' access.

Laura, what a fantastic idea.

Everyone has been great, thanks

Similar to what Tom said. We have bought distilled water in stores like Target as well as pharmacies. We got the extension cord with the multiple electrical outlets in a supermarket. That was in the Netherlands and Belgium last year. Tom gave you some great specific stores to check out when you are there.