Before you begin traveling with your portable oxygen concentrators, you should know that there are a few travel tips for oxygen patients to make traveling easier!
The first thing you should do after you make the decision of where, when, and how you will be traveling, you will want to talk to your doctor or physician. Just in case there should be any changes in altitude or climate, you want to make sure your doctor will adjust your oxygen flow settings accordingly.
Traveling by land is one of the easiest ways for oxygen patients to travel, since it requires the least amount of planning. You also get more freedom, as far as your schedule goes. If you are traveling by car, you want to make sure you don’t leave your portable oxygen concentrator in a hot car or compartment. It’s also important to sit near a partially opened window to prevent oxygen from building up in your vehicle. You should also never smoke while you are using oxygen, and you also should not be around anyone that is smoking. Lastly, remember not to store anything on top of your portable oxygen concentrator and to keep it properly secured in an upright position.
If you’re traveling on land but traveling by bus or train, you should consider any company regulations on weight limits and any portable oxygen concentrator. For example, Greyhound says that you are required to give them 48 hours advanced notice if you are traveling with a portable oxygen concentrator. AMTRAK also requires at least 12 hours’ notice if you are traveling with a portable oxygen concentrator.
If you’re traveling by air on a commercial airline, this requires the most planning and preparation. You can take your portable oxygen concentrator on board, if it is FAA approved. Once you have an FAA approved portable oxygen concentrator you want to make sure that you have 150% of your flight time in battery life. For example, if your flight is 4 hours, you should have 6 hours of battery life. Most airlines also require that you have a signed copy of your prescription, as well as a written statement from your doctor. Should you only use an oxygen tank, and not have a portable oxygen concentrator, you will need to consider purchasing one or renting one.
Finally, if you are traveling by sea, you should become familiar with each cruise lines’ policies. Most commercial cruise lines allow you to bring your own supply of oxygen on board, but it’s always important to plan and give them a call. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
If you are only using an oxygen tank, and need a portable oxygen concentrator, you can purchase an FAA approved concentrator here from Oxygen Always!
Check out our articles for more products, tips, and info for oxygen patients here.
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