Traveling With Your Oxygen Concentrator

If you are an oxygen user, then you know the extra considerations you have to take when traveling with your oxygen concentrator. Supplemental oxygen is key in mobility. When traveling is a go, your oxygen concentrator is a go as well. Oxygen Always wants you to breathe easy with these helpful travel tips.
Traveling by Air.  To start your travel needs, you first need to speak with your physician and ensure that you are okay to travel. The airlines will most likely need prescription for your oxygen concentrator; this can all be supplied by your doctor. Before passengers are allowed to use a portable oxygen concentrator, air carriers must first ensure the model does not cause interference with electrical navigation or communication equipment, and it must be in good working condition. If batteries are necessary, the FAA requires they be protected from short circuits or physical damage.

When traveling with a portable oxygen concentrator, convenience and price should be your main concern. The Inogen One G2 has both; it can accommodate 2 different battery sizes, which means you can upgrade to a battery twice the size, allowing you twice the travel time.
Traveling by Sea.  Cruise ships have a supplemental oxygen policy and since some policies are different than others, Oxygen Always suggests that you do ample research before selecting which cruise line you will take. Oxygen concentrators supply their own oxygen through filtered air, so traveling for many days on a cruise ship should not affect your oxygen supply.
Traveling by Land. Of course, traveling by land is easiest for those who need to use an oxygen concentrator. It is still important to speak with your doctor about the altitudes you will be traveling to, if applicable.

• Traveling by Car: Oxygen concentrators are easy to use and portable, making it very easy to store for long car rides. It is important to remember to always keep your oxygen concentrator upright for maximum air. Since oxygen concentrators can be highly combustible, Oxygen Always urge patients to never store their oxygen device in the trunk or in a heated car. When traveling by car, it is always good to leave a window open for extra oxygen.
• Traveling by Bus. Check with your local bus line in advance, for policies and procedures for your oxygen device. There should be no problem using your portable oxygen concentrator, because most bus lines are non-smoking. If you need to store your device, remember to never store it in a heated compartment, it is best to store it under your seat.
• Traveling by Rail. The same follows for trains. You will want to contact your local railroad to check for policies. Storing your device is tight areas can cause a heat sensitive alarm to go off, so carrying your oxygen concentrator is safer than storing it anywhere. It is also important to sit in a non-smoking section, which most Amtrak’s can help you locate.

Oxygen Always has many tips for getting the most out of your oxygen concentrator, including travel. When traveling with your oxygen concentrator, it is always a good idea to double check that you have the right equipment on you. Make sure you have the right electrical conversion adapters needed, and include your AC/DC power cord and your shoulder strap for comfort. Some accessories may include gross particle filters, which you should always take with you when traveling. Oxygen Always wants your next trip to be easy and safe. Call us today for more information on portable oxygen concentrators.