Camping is an activity many folks love to experience. Seeing and hearing the sights and sounds of nature brings a sense of calm over you as you bag your phone and shut yourself off from the rest of the world. However, being removed from the modern world may cause issues if you deal with a medical condition.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) brings difficulties when trying to sleep at home, even if you have a CPAP machine handy. However, traveling with your home unit may be a challenging proposition because you need to move it into the wild. Also, purchasing the extra necessary parts can be a hassle to pack and cost a pretty penny. Luckily, there are some solutions to work around this difficulty that include the power of the sun. Here is everything you need to know about camping with a CPAP machine, so pack your bags and let's go!
Two Ways To Camp
On-Site Electricity
While you may not get the whole wilderness experience, visiting a campsite with power bypasses any potential issues of connecting your CPAP. Outside of having a power source, a glamping experience provides additional benefits such as bathrooms, a shower, and Wi-Fi. However, since it's a more comfortable experience, these places are jammed-packed, making it difficult to book your spot.
It's helpful to find a plug-in; the humidification aspect of the device will drain the battery rapidly. If you can't plug things in, your machine will shut off quicker because of the lack of a power source, nullifying the benefits of your treatment.
Off-Grid
Camping is all about roughing it in the wilderness like you're the ruler of the wild frontier, not like you're from Beverly Hills. Therefore, it's time to think of the appropriate accommodations to use your CPAP on the go. Even though it's more convenient not to bring, don't think about skipping your treatment on your trip. You'll lack the energy to hike and do other activities. So, how do you end up making things work when you’re off the grid?
Battery Options Off-Grid
Standard Car Battery
One of the most popular ways to power your CPAP when you don't have a power source is creating your own with a car battery. Any car battery you can purchase at an auto parts store will suffice, giving you enough power to last several days.
In addition to the battery, you will need to purchase two other items to get it to run. First off, a DC adapter supplies power through the cigarette lighter, allowing you to get the CPAP firing on all cylinders. Secondly, an inverter can use the energy from the AC to give power to the CPAP.
Although this will work, it may be tricky to get everything working correctly; some aspects of it are unconventional and could potentially backfire. For example, lugging around car batteries all day can get quite exhausting because they’re so heavy. They’re also impossible to transport by air travel since they have toxic chemicals.
Battery Pack
Luckily, there are other ways to power your CPAP machines that don't involve carrying a massively heavy battery. There are specific batteries that power CPAP devices that are much lighter and cost-effective. The one downside of using CPAP batteries, though, is that each device requires particular batteries. It's not a one-size-fits-all solution, which may lead to users purchasing the wrong type.
Helpful Tips and Tricks
Use a Travel CPAP Machine
If the previous recommendations aren't a fit for you, it's worth considering another option that doesn't involve as many moving parts. Travel CPAP machines for sale allow you to leave the heavy batteries at home and keep your device at your bedside. This portable unit provides an additional machine that you can travel with or leave at home for backup purposes. Furthermore, the travel machines may be more technologically savvier than the older units, offering you new, advanced features. Lastly, transporting a travel machine is a much easier task compared to moving the home unit. Their flexibility makes them worth the investment.
Avoid Power Inverters
While you can use your device through an inverter when you’re in a pinch, it's a better idea to avoid them entirely. Inverters get the job done, but they take twice as much battery life because they drain energy from two separate sources. Instead of using an inverter, buy the specific batteries that your machine needs. Doing so can save energy.
Solar Power
Solar panels provide energy to batteries that are compatible with various CPAP machines. Using solar power lets you charge your battery while on the go so you won’t waste time setting up and charging your batteries. Exposure to the sun will provide the energy your batteries need.
Cleaning Supplies
It's virtually impossible to ensure your device stays clean when you’re in the wild. Dirt particles can find their way into the device, potentially causing you to digest some dirty water. To keep things squeaky clean, invest in the following cleaning supplies.
Get a pack of CPAP wipes so you can sterilize your mask, freeing it from all the bacteria and germs that attach to its outline. Wipes are effective and safe compared to nearby, natural water sources. Creek water has lots of germs in it, which isn’t ideal if you need to clean your accessories. Bring an abundance of distilled water for your humidifier and other cleaning purposes.
There are many ways to continue your treatment, even when you’re out camping and having fun in the wild. By learning everything you need to know about camping with a CPAP machine, you can feel comfortable before heading to your favorite destination (or camping somewhere new.) Check out the selection of all the helpful travel accessories we have here at CPAPnation that guarantee your wellness no matter the occasion.
Disclaimer: The information provided on CPAPnation.com is solely for educational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. CPAPnation.com is not responsible or liable for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis or any other information, services or products that you obtain through this site. Reliance on any information provided by CPAPnation.com is solely at your own risk.
