Life can be a bit different for those who suffer from sleep apnea. As such, it’s important to use a CPAP machine to breathe normally.
For most of my life, I have suffered from this disease. Not only does it keep me at the risk of health issues whenever I go to sleep, but it also prevents me from traveling anywhere far.
When I first started using a CPAP machine, I didn’t feel much difference in my daily life. But, when it came to traveling, backpacking, or hiking, the CPAP machine stood in the way and raised some interesting challenges.
Last month when my colleagues decided to go on a backpacking trip, I showed my interest, but at the same time, deep down, I knew I couldn’t. Sad and frustrated, I went to my doctor for a solution when he told me how to go backpacking with a CPAP machine.
Hi! I am Stacy Smith, and today I will be sharing everything my doctor told me about backpacking with a CPAP machine. So, without any further day, let’s get right into it!
Equipment Needed For Backpacking With Sleep Apnea
You need to ensure that you carry a CPAP machine with all the required accessories. Most brands offer easy-to-use CPAP machines that come with masks, an AC power supply source, a mask adapter, and a 6-foot hose, making them efficient.
All the equipment should make backpacking and camping a smooth breeze without compromising on sleep quality. If the CPAP machine that you have doesn’t feature a mask, make sure you buy a soft and lightweight one for the trip.
Next, you have to ensure that you pack all the equipment properly. Almost all CPAP machines come with a carrying case, so you don’t have to worry about it. Just make sure that you empty the humidifier chamber before packing the machine into the carrying case.
Also, don’t forget to pack the power adapters, hoses, and a power source, most preferably a CPAP battery. If you are going on the trip for several days, you would want to carry a backup power source.
Using CPAP Machines Without Electricity
The good thing is that, in this day and age, campsites offer electrical outlets. As such, you would want to carry an extension cord so that you can plug in the CPAP machine for power.
But if you go on a hike, you will require some other power source for the CPAP machine, apart from CPAP batteries. You can consider using car batteries or portable power stations as backup power supply options. These backup options will ensure that your machine keeps running regardless of where your campsite is.
A. Using A Car Battery
As far as car batteries are concerned, you can trust them to give you backup for days. You can acquire a car battery from an automobile shop, following which you will need either an inverter or a DC adapter.
In order to run the CPAP machine with an inverter or a DC adapter cable, you need to place the negative and positive alligator clips on the respective battery terminals. Proceed to plug your machine into the adapter of the DC cable or the outlet of the inverter.
I, personally, wouldn’t recommend this backup option when backpacking as it is certainly the most laborious one. However, if you are near the campsite, you may consider it.
B. Using A Portable Power Station
Another great option for power backup is a portable power station. Most power stations that are available on the market are equipped with all the features that work to run a CPAP machine for extended periods.
Just pick one and set your CPAP machine up in a jiffy. Having said that, remember that some of these power stations are a bit heavy, so it might not be a perfect choice if you go backpacking away from the campsite.
C. Using CPAP Batteries
In this day and age, CPAP batteries are more affordable and lighter than ever before, making them an ideal choice for a backup power supply. It doesn’t matter if your camping area is off-grid; you can carry these lightweight products all the same.
- 99.9Wh Airline-Approved CPAP Power Bank: ES270 is TSA & FAA approved, very convenient for air travel, It can charge ResMed AirMini or Luna TravelPAP auto for up to 8 hours (turn off humidification and heating mode) and easily get a full night's sleep. The compact size (5.1×2.9×1.9inch) fits perfectly into any backpack
- CPAP Battery with Multi-Model CPAP Cables: The package includes 4 CPAP charging cables, compatible with ResMed AirMini, AirSense 11/10, AirCurve 11/10, Luna TravelPAP, Philips DreamStation & DreamStation 2. Note: A separate charging cable is required for other CPAP devices
- Tips: We recommend using this protable CPAP battery pack for low-power CPAP machines, such as ResMed AirMini/ Luna TravelPAP. For high-power CPAP machines, turn off the humidifier and heating tube to extend runtime to a full night’s use
- FSA/HSA Eligible CPAP Battery: Includes 4 CPAP cables, compatible with ResMed AirSense 10/11, AirCurve 10/11, AirMini, S9, Luna G3 (heated tube not supported), and Philips DreamStation 1/2.
- 148Wh Capacity: Provides a full night of CPAP therapy for portable devices; note: larger CPAPs with humidifiers or heaters will reduce runtime.
- Pass-Through Charging: Power your CPAP while charging the battery simultaneously, preventing interruptions and battery drain.
Additional Tips For Backpacking With A CPAP machine
These are a few handy tips that’ll make your backpacking experience a memorable and enjoyable one.
1. Avoid Using A Humidifier
I would highly suggest not using a humidifier with your CPAP machine, as it will overload the battery and shorten the backup. So, if possible, leave your humidifier at the campsite.
2. For A Long Backpacking Trip, Use A Solar Battery
You will find many CPAP batteries on the market that can be charged using solar power. Not only are they highly efficient, but they also allow you to charge the battery every day without electricity sources.
That’s why I highly recommend getting a solar battery for your CPAP machine.
3. If Possible, Don’t Use A Power Inverter
For many people, a power inverter may be the only option available. However, avoid using it when you go backpacking as it will drastically affect the battery’s health.
Also, if you are backpacking for multiple days, a power inverter is a clear no-no.
4. Consider Using A Travel CPAP Machine
You can take your usual CPAP machine for backpacking trips. However, you run the risk of getting it dirty or damaging it. Plus, they are large and bulky, which makes them a bit difficult to carry.
I would strongly recommend using a travel CPAP machine on your trip. They are lightweight, convenient, and easy to clean.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoyed reading my article on how to backpack with a CPAP machine.Â
If you cannot carry your CPAP machine, consider sleeping with a hammock. It’ll keep your head upright to avoid the tongue from blocking the airways. According to studies, sleeping upright has proved to be a highly functional alternative for sleep apnea.
So, that’s all for today. Let me know your thoughts in the comment section.Â