Can you travel with a CPAP machine for sleep apnea in an RV?

August 7, 2019

We think you can but we also think you should have a plan “B” and “C” if your life depends on a reliable overnight supply of power for your CPAP machine. 

 
In our homes, we tend to take the supply of electrical power for granted and are most indignant when it fails and we can’t switch on the lights, make coffee or watch TV but a loss of power for many CPAP users is a great deal more serious and must be planned for when travelling in a campervan.
 
Some clients have chosen to only stay on campsites with a mains electricity supply whilst travelling with a CPAP machine in a motorhome but if you use a portable/travel machine with a long battery life and buy a spare battery plus a 12v charger, you can stay off-grid too. Even if you choose to head for campsites, we’d suggest travelling with this extra kit so you have a plan “B” and “C” in the event that the mains power fails. Campsite power is rarely reliable. You often find yourself plugged into a column with four other users and the supply can trip if one of your fellow users overloads it, plugs in a faulty appliance or there is a storm.

 
All modern motorhomes and campervans have a 12v electricity supply (with a cigar-lighter socket), but circuit boards, wiring and batteries can fail without notice on a moving vehicle so if your life depends on a reliable overnight supply of power, don’t rely solely on your motorhome to provide it.
 

Our advice is:

 
– Don’t be afraid to travel in a motorhome with a CPAP machine but do be prepared for limited and unreliable access to electricity.

– Buy a portable/travel CPAP with the longest battery life available and the ability to charge it using mains power (220v in Europe) and 12v power.

– Buy a spare battery and keep both charged up so you have a solution in the event that your battery or planned power supply fails.

– Make sure you have extension cables that will reach your mains and 12v power sockets from your bed in case you need them.

– Finally, for a real belt and braces solution, buy a second, identical machine in case your CPAP machine fails whilst you are travelling (or maybe just do your research so you know where to get your hands on one in hurry over here).

 
Life is far too short to stay at home just because you have a CPAP machine! Invest in what you need to stay safe and come and enjoy Europe by motorhome.