Yes. You may put a CPAP in checked baggage, but carrying it on avoids rough handling, lost bags, and lithium-battery complications.
Flying with a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device often raises the same question: “Should it ride in the hold or stay by my side?” Regulators allow both options, yet real-world travel stories—and the fine print from the TSA list—point to carry-on as the smarter choice. This guide explains the rules, shows when checking makes sense, and walks you through safe packing either way.
Carry-On Or Checked? The Fast Comparison
| Factor | Carry-On Cabin | Checked Hold |
|---|---|---|
| TSA Status | Always allowed as a medical device; no bag limit | Allowed with “special instructions” tag |
| Lithium Battery Rules | Spare packs must stay with passenger | Spare packs banned; installed pack must be <100 Wh & fully off |
| Risk of Damage/Loss | Minimal—device travels under your supervision | Greater—rough handling, delayed bags, temperature swings |
TSA, FAA, And DOT Rules In Plain Speech
TSA Position
The agency lists CPAP, BiPAP, and APAP units as items permitted in both carry-on and checked luggage. Machines may stay in a soft case for X-ray, though officers can ask you to lift the blower out for swabbing. Liquids such as sterile water ride outside the usual 3-1-1 limit when declared.
Lithium Battery Details
Most modern travel CPAPs run on removable lithium-ion packs. Spare batteries belong in the cabin—never in the hold—under FAA hazmat policy. A battery installed in the device can stay in checked luggage if you power the unit completely off and protect the switch.
Assistive-Device Protection
The Air Carrier Access Act labels CPAP as an “assistive device,” which means it rides free of standard bag fees. Airlines must return the unit in the same shape in which they received it, even when stowed in the hold.
Why Carry-On Wins Most Trips
Fragility And Moisture
Blowers, humidifier tubs, and sensors dislike cargo-bay temperature shifts and thrown suitcases. Even a hard shell cannot prevent knocks that misalign internal sensors. CPAP.com notes that checked baggage exposes the device to preventable breakage.
Missed Connections
Lost or delayed luggage is rare yet real. Verywell Health underscores that a night without therapy can derail an entire trip; keeping the machine at hand removes that risk.
Battery Compliance Checks
Gate agents sometimes verify that spare cells meet watt-hour limits. With the device in the cabin you can show labels quickly and avoid repacking drama at the counter.
When Checking Makes Sense
Bulky Equipment
Some users travel with a full-size bedside model plus humidifier chamber. International carriers with tight cabin bins may insist on gate-checking bulk gear. DOT guidance says the airline must tag the unit as a medical device and waive extra-bag fees.
Multi-Leg Itineraries
On flights that require long walks between gates, freeing your hands can be a relief. Packing the blower in a crush-proof case inside a checked bag keeps you light during transfers.
Packing A CPAP For Checked Baggage
Step-By-Step Method
- Drain and dry the humidifier tub.
- Detach mask, hose, and water tank; place each in separate zipper bags.
- Remove any spare lithium battery and keep it with you.
- Wrap the blower in bubble wrap and slip it into a rigid box.
- Add a “MEDICAL DEVICE—FRAGILE” tag plus your contact card.
- Place the box in the center of the suitcase, cushioned by soft clothing.
- Lock the case with a TSA-approved clasp.
Quick Packing Checklist
| Item | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Blower Unit | Preferred: padded soft case | Rigid box inside suitcase |
| Spare Lithium Pack | Mandatory | Never allowed |
| Doctor’s Note & FAA Letter | Keep in pocket sleeve | Copy inside case as backup |
| Mask & Hose | Mesh pouch | Zip bag in a corner |
| Distilled Water | Declare; exempt from 3-1-1 | Seal tightly; cushion leaks |
Airline Policy Glimpse
Most major U.S. carriers treat CPAP exactly the same way: device rides free of hand-luggage limits and may be used in flight once you meet battery run-time targets. ResMed summarizes this stance and urges travelers to call the airline 48 hours ahead for any extra paperwork. Individual operators sometimes insist on batteries lasting 150 % of flight length if you plan to run therapy onboard.
Field Fixes For Common Worries
Security Wipes Dirty The Device
Request a fresh pair of gloves and a clean tub during explosive-trace testing. TSA officers are trained for medical gear and will usually comply.
Unit Returns Wet After Rainy Ramp
Power the blower with no mask for ten minutes to dry internals, then run tubing and mask under warm air from a hotel hairdryer on low.
Battery Under 100 Wh Not Marked
Print the watt-hour calculation (mAh × volts ÷ 1,000) and tape it to the pack. This satisfies FAA staff if the housing lacks clear data.
Frequently Missed Details
Water And Altitude
Leave the humidifier bin empty while flying; turbulence can send water into the blower and void the warranty, notes ResMed.
Power Plugs Abroad
Most modern units auto-switch 100–240 V. Pack a simple plug adapter instead of a bulky converter. CPAP.com’s travel guide lists compatible adapters by region.
Insurance And Back-Up Units
A spare travel-style CPAP costs less than missed sleep and is often covered under durable medical equipment benefits. Verywell Health highlights this tip for frequent flyers.
Final Tips Before Departure
- Label: Attach a bright “MEDICAL DEVICE” tag to the case.
- Backup: Store a PDF of your prescription on your phone.
- Plan power: Bring cords, adapters, and enough battery to cover the flight plus layovers.
- Stay calm: CPAP is common gear, and crew see it daily. Clear communication keeps the journey smooth.
For extra clarity on lithium limits, visit the FAA PackSafe chart.