Travelling With Oxygen Device: Tips For Air, Car, Train, High Altitude, and Cruise Ship

You need to understand the standards applicable to the right portable oxygen concentrator for travel using a car, aircraft, train, or cruise ship. 

Trains, cruise ships, and vehicles support the use of any of the three types of oxygen solution available.

Neither compressed nor liquid oxygen is allowed for air travel. You can only use bottled oxygen or a portable oxygen concentrator when flying.

Some portable oxygen concentrators are not FAA-approved for air travel. You also need to check the device specifications for operational attitudes. For air travel, choose a portable oxygen that can operate at altitudes above 8,000 feet.

Ensure you select a portable oxygen concentrator with an extended battery life. The device should also allow for a simple spare battery preparation. Some portable oxygen concentrators have a car AC adaptor for charging while driving. 

POC devices whose battery power rating exceeds 100 watt-hours are not allowed on commercial flights because of safety risks. Check the labeling, specifications, or manual for your device battery power rating, recharge time, and other options.

There are models of portable oxygen solutions that come in lightweight, compact designs. Most models support a trolley or smaller devices that come with a strap-on bag. 

Choose a portable oxygen solution that is easy to carry and maneuver in narrow places with high human traffic, such as airports and train stations.

Look for a supplier that provides maintenance services and spare parts across different regions. You do not want your device to malfunction in a foreign territory without help.

Always ensure you pack your device's instruction manual while travelling. It helps in troubleshooting faults and preventing downtimes. You should also ensure that the equipment is up to the task by taking it for a technical check to your supplier or service provider before traveling.

Many airlines are operating globally, and their policies for travelling with oxygen may differ. However, there are some standard airline policies for traveling with oxygen, such as the need for medical clearance and prior notice.

You will need to go through the travel checklist for oxygen users of your preferred airline. 

Here are links to some major airlines' policies for traveling with oxygen.

• Air Canada
• American Airline
• British Airways
• Porter Airlines
• Air Transat
• Qantas
• Delta Airlines
• United Airlines
• Sunwing Airlines Special Services Reques

The process of applying for airline approval for flying with a portable oxygen concentrator is outlined in the airline's company policies for memorable case travel. 

Failing to disclose or using non-approved oxygen equipment can result in emergency landing, arrest, and charges. You need to read and follow the policy procedures for the final approval.

• Begin your flight arrangements weeks before the departure date. When making your reservation, tell the airline of your necessity to use oxygen.

• Ensure you have all the necessary medical documents to support your need for oxygen during flight.

• Select a POC on the airline's list of accepted manufacturers and brands.

• Fill out all the necessary paperwork from the airline

• Arrive early to avoid rushing or being rushed by the airport staff.

• Be prepared to explain your POC to airport security.

• Security may need you to open the cover to show batteries.

• Spare batteries are also subject to security approval.

• Ask for an alternative if stairs are a problem.

• If you plan to use the airline oxygen supply, please inform the check-in desk.

• Carry your nasal prongs if using airline bottled oxygen. They only provide face masks, which can limit your ability to speak.

• Ask the cabin crew to fix the prongs for you.

• If possible, push your concentrator under the seat in front of it. You can also remove the trolley to make it easier.

• For a larger concentrator, consider requesting a seatbelt extender to secure the device.

• If you only use oxygen while flying, turn your POC on once the plane begins to take off.

• A POC is the most suitable oxygen solution if your doctor does not consider it safe to be without oxygen even for short periods during flight.

• Ask for a seat near the toilets to avoid navigating your concentrator through the airplane's narrow aisle.

Travelling with oxygen by car is easier for a passenger. You need to secure your oxygen equipment and use appropriate tubing in a comfortable seat. However, driving with oxygen needs precaution:

You can pack and travel with personal or rental oxygen equipment for use at a high-altitude destination. You may also look for local oxygen equipment rental options available at your destination. However, you need to consult with your healthcare provider about the correct device according to your needs. 

If you need oxygen for high elevations, you may also need to use oxygen when flying commercially, since most commercial planes have their cabin pressure set to the equivalent of 8,000 ft atmospheric pressure. 

You can use your FAA-approved POC while flying and still use it at your destination. However, if you only plan to use the POC after you arrive at the high altitude destination, most airlines do not have usage-specific requirements for the device during travel.

• Consult your doctor and get a clearance for the use of oxygen equipment.

• The oxygen machine must be disclosed to your carrier for proper storage during travel.

• Ensure you carry with you the medical documents, equipment manual, and contact information when using your POC.

• Choose a compact and lightweight portable oxygen concentrator to reduce outdoor baggage weight.

• Carry a plug adaptor for your charger to avoid missing charging opportunities due to variations in outlets and voltages.

• Pack spare batteries that can last you longer than you plan to spend in the outdoors. Also, observe airline specifications on battery capacity.

• Protect the device from water, physical impact,  and extreme humid conditions.

Consult with your physician for a wellness check to verify your health ability. A doctor will conduct medical tests, including altitude and blood oxygen level tests, to determine your oxygen level needs. 

The doctor also checks you against other ailments that may affect your pulmonary system due to a change in altitude or climate. Travelling with oxygen commercially in most cases requires a doctor's approval.

• Ensure you pack a spare oxygen tank if traveling to a region with limited refill dealers.

• Pack your POC, batteries, charger, and concentrator accessories separately from your check-in luggage.

• Ensure you include an oximeter.

• Include the device manual, doctor's clearance form, and approval form in your carry-on bag.

• You should also add a document containing emergency contact information

• If you are taking other medications, include them in your emergency kit along with their instructions.

• Pack enough fully charged batteries to last during the period you need to use your POC without direct power. During flight, aviation regulations require battery power that can run 1.5-2 times the flight schedule.

• Wrap spare batteries separately or tape over the terminals before putting them in your hand luggage. Aviation regulations do not allow lithium-ion batteries in check-in luggage.

• Carry adaptor plugs for charging during layovers at airports and the destination.

You should pack the documents in your hand luggage bag or the POC carrier if it can hold them. This information is critical during an emergency and can help you get the necessary attention to prevent worsening of the situation or fatality. The primary documents you must have with you when travelling with oxygen are:

Emergency contact information for your kin, personal doctor, and referral doctor at the destination.

• Medical clearance form for use of oxygen

• Device operation instructions

• Medical prescriptions