Best Travel CPAP Machines in 2024: A Complete Guide

Oct 31, 2024

Our Reviews Team recommends products and services that we feel strongly about, and that will truly benefit our readers. We’ve spent more than 50 hours conducting in-depth research on CPAP machines to give you the most accurate review of each model and brand. To make our selections, we:

Read more about our CPAP Review Methodology.

If you’re one of the 45 million people with sleep apnea, you likely rely on a CPAP machine to help you breathe at night. But what happens when you need to travel? Packing a bulky CPAP machine can be cumbersome, even if it is one of the best CPAP machines.

That’s where travel CPAP machines come in. These portable devices are designed to be smaller, lighter, and easier to transport without compromising the effectiveness of your therapy. Whether you’re flying, driving, or taking a train, travel CPAP machines ensure you continue to get the restful sleep you need without the hassle of a standard machine.

In a 2023 survey by our Reviews Team, 30% of CPAP users said they bring their regular machine when traveling, while just over 21% opt for a travel CPAP model.

These portable machines are built to fit seamlessly into your travels, offering convenience, comfort, and peace of mind so you can focus on enjoying your trip while prioritizing your sleep health.

We found several important factors when testing CPAP machines specifically for travel, including:

A CPAP machine for travel should be compact and lightweight. It should fit comfortably in luggage without adding extra bulk.

A quiet environment is essential for sleep, so we asses machines based on their noise output. The best travel CPAP machines operate quietly to ensure you and those around you can sleep peacefully.

A reliable battery is important for travel, especially if you’re flying or camping where power outlets may not be readily available. We look for models with long-lasting batteries or the ability to connect easily to external battery packs.

A travel CPAP should be user-friendly and have intuitive controls, especially since travel often involves unfamiliar environments. A simple setup is also a must.

To reach ResMed customer service, call 800-424-0737 Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. PT, or use the “Contact Us” form to submit your inquiry. You can purchase the ResMed AirMini through Lofta and receive free expedited shipping, as well as the option to finance your travel CPAP machine through Affirm.

During our research, we found most users were happy with their purchase and the therapy they received from the ResMed AirMini, especially due to the features that enhance its usability and convenience:

Who may love it

Who may want to avoid it

“I brought this for a 6-day wilderness rafting trip in Desolation Canyon in Utah. It is the lightest weight battery and solar panel setup that I looked at. It was easy to lay the solar panel on top of our cooler as we floated the river, and it wasn’t a problem to fold it up occasionally when we went through a splashy rapid.”

“I worried that once I needed CPAP therapy I would be burdened with bulky equipment. This travel CPAP seems a great travel alternative. It was shipped promptly and and is a very full featured little machine. I called Sleeplay twice and got immediate helpful service. I won’t actually need it until next April, so I have time to get some filters, explore its features and see how quiet it is. Apparently, it is a bit louder than the full size but equivalent to a whisper.”

Read more in our ResMed CPAP machines review.

To reach Transcend customer service, call 866-978-9481, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT. You can also complete an online inquiry form in the “Contact Customer Care” section. The Transcend Micro Auto Travel CPAP is available to purchase through Lofta, which allows you to pay via FSA, HSA, and most major credit cards or to finance through Affirm.

The Transcend Micro Auto CPAP comes with the following features:

Portable power options: The optional battery pack and solar charger make this machine versatile for different travel settings, especially where you may not have access to an AC outlet. The P8 battery lasts for two nights and costs an additional $319. You can also purchase a solar charger for $250 that will charge the P8 battery with the sun (even in low-light settings), so it’s great for weeklong camping trips or other extended time away from electricity.

EZEX Pressure Relief: During exhalation, this function automatically reduces pressure, which may make it more comfortable. This feature is similar to the APAP mode setting on the AirMini.

Gentle rise: This auto ramp feature lets you fall asleep to a lower, more comfortable pressure that ramps up gradually once you’re asleep. You can adjust this feature to set specific ramp times or even turn it off.

Bluetooth connectivity: The MySleepDash app offers guided setup, adjustment settings, and data recording, allowing users and health care professionals to monitor therapy progress.

Drying mode: In the morning, activate a 30-minute “drying mode” cycle to remove built-up moisture inside the machine and tubing. You can use this feature to help your machine stay dry and reduce contamination.

WhisperSoft Muffler: This accessory is placed in line with the tubing, so it functions like a muffler and reduces the sound of air passing through the tubing.

Who may love it

Who may want to avoid it

“I have been using this one for a week now. I don’t understand why the ones insurance will pay for have to be so large and bulky? This little guy is about the size of a large orange and does the job perfectly! I opted for the battery and the humidification filter as well. I live in a super dry, high desert climate, and I didn’t notice any difference from my Respironics machine with the water tank! I was comfortable all night long.”

“I bought this machine for traveling as I enjoy jet setting around the world as much as I can. Needed something small to take with me on my travels, I saw the transcend and thought perfect it was small enough to put in my carry-on and I didn’t have to change my mask. However, it made it harder, longer and more difficult to fall asleep. The machine is loud for the user, it’s a quiet machine for the person sleeping next to you, my boyfriend thanks you. Since I’m the one using it, I need it to be silent and sadly this machine is not.”

Call 855-436-8724 for sales or technical support, or email sales at [email protected] or technical support at [email protected]. Breas doesn’t sell its CPAP machines on its website but refers customers to online and local retailers.

The Breas Z2 Auto CPAP comes with the following features:

Who may love it

Who may want to avoid it

“I did not have any problems with the noise of the machine. Yes, slightly louder than home unit, but barely. The thing that I am still getting used to is the lack of in-line humidifier. I am using the filters that help with that, but it isn’t the same for sure. Hopefully after more trips I will get used to it. Other than that, it seems to work great and takes up much less room in the suit case. The customer service was excellent. They answered all of my questions and did not seemed rushed to get me off the phone.”

“Now that I have tried the Breas Z2, I understand both the reviews that say it is quiet and the ones that say it is loud. It is fairly quiet but the noise that it makes is NOT white noise. Mine makes a 2 tone, musical sounding wheeze that sounds a bit like a bad flute; it fluctuates as I inhale and exhale. It isn’t loud, but it is enough that it made it a bit hard to fall asleep and it irritated my partner because of the nature of the noise. The sound comes from the machine and not any of the hoses. I’m keeping it because otherwise it worked, the size and weight will be excellent for travel, and not needing to fuss with distilled water is a big advantage.”

Apex doesn’t offer many ways to contact them for assistance. You can visit the brand’s website and fill out an online request form, or you can message the company through LinkedIn. No phone number or email address is provided on the website.

The company is in the midst of a merger with Wellell, which has its own website. Wellell can be contacted by calling 714-671-3818 or filling out an online request form.

The Apex XT Auto comes with the following features:

Who may love it

Who may want to avoid it

“I’m very happy with this machine. It is very quiet. It automatically adjusts the airflow to your needs as you are sleeping. I may require 11 to 12 cm when my allergies are bad. But only 7 or 8 when they are not. I would recommend this cpap for anyone. I seldom need a humidifier so I purchased with out the optional humidifier. It is small and compact and comes with a nice travel case.”

“I’ve used a cpap for 14 years and this little beauty is really, really quiet! I travel alot and it is light, quick to set up, and it does not dry me out in areas of high humidity if I don’t use the humidifier. Also, I have not yet been stopped by the travel authorities to check it for explosive residue like my old unit.”

Our team has spent over 250 hours reviewing and researching CPAP machines, masks, accessories, and other positive airway pressure (PAP) devices. Our approach to CPAP machines is informed by medical experts in the field, including Elizabeth Lyda, a registered respiratory therapist in Rochester, New York. We continually read and review academic research to understand the benefits and details of CPAP therapy and how the devices work. We also surveyed 600 real CPAP users to learn more about their experiences using the machines and what matters most to them. Our testers mystery shop online CPAP suppliers, going through the purchasing process just like a real customer would and contacting customer service, to understand what information readers will need to order their device and how responsive each supplier is to questions.

We have researched more than 45 CPAP models from 15 manufacturers and compared each one on a set of key specifications and features. We rate CPAP devices on the following factors:

Read our CPAP review methodology to learn more about our review process.

Finding the right travel CPAP machine can make a big difference in the quality of your sleep on the go. When choosing one, it’s important to weigh factors like:

Travel CPAP machines come in two main types: fixed-pressure and auto-adjusting (APAP). Fixed-pressure CPAPs deliver a constant airflow, ideal for those with stable pressure needs. APAP machines adjust the airflow based on your breathing patterns, offering more flexibility and comfort. To determine the right type of travel CPAP machine for your needs, consider the amount of adjustment you need and the environment where you’ll use your machine.

Consider the availability of compatible accessories, such as portable battery packs, travel cases, or mask options. The type of travel will determine the importance of specific accessories.

Noise is an important factor in choosing a CPAP machine, especially if you’re a light sleeper or sharing a room. Most CPAP machines are designed to operate quietly for this reason, around the sound of a whisper. However, even a few decibels can make a large difference when trying to sleep. Some machines have noise-reducing features, like mufflers, to further reduce sound. Anything less than 30 decibels should be comfortable for sleeping.

Look for a lightweight CPAP machine that won’t add excessive bulk to your travel luggage, making it easier to carry and reduce strain while on the go. The machines in our review all weigh less than 1–2 pounds, while in-home machines are much larger and heavier.

Pressure range refers to a machine’s airflow, measured in centimeters of water (cmH20). A standard CPAP machine typically offers a pressure range of 4 to 20 cmH2O. The wider the range, the more likely a machine will be able to handle your specific sleep apnea requirements. If your condition requires higher pressure settings, you may need to seek a machine specifically designed to handle these needs. New users should consider ramp time, as it makes it easier to adjust to CPAP therapy.

Your doctor may have specific recommendations based on your preferences, prescription, and needs. Most doctors work closely with a few brands and are more familiar and comfortable with those particular machines.

Travel CPAP machines often come with additional features to enhance convenience and usability. For instance, many offer Bluetooth connectivity to let you track your sleep data through your phone. Some machines have built-in humidifiers or the option to add waterless humidification, which prevents dry mouth. Other common features include rechargeable batteries, altitude adjustments, and FAA approval.

Consider your budget and compare the prices of different travel CPAP machines. While cost is important, it is crucial to balance affordability and essential features.

Your accessories can make a big difference in effectiveness and comfort when traveling with a CPAP machine. Here are some travel CPAP accessories you may want to consider:

When purchasing a travel CPAP machine, consider factors like prescription requirements and insurance coverage.

A prescription is required for CPAP machines, including travel CPAP machines. A prescription ensures the machine is set to the appropriate pressure levels for your specific needs. Consult with your health care provider to obtain a prescription for a travel CPAP machine.

Travel CPAP machines may be covered by insurance, but it depends on your policy and provider. Many insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of your machine if it is deemed medically necessary. Still, they typically cover standard CPAP machines more readily than those specifically designed for travel. Travel CPAPs are often considered convenience devices, making them less likely to provide full coverage. Plan to cover most of the CPAP machine cost yourself.

Read our full guide to learn more about Medicare coverage of CPAP machines.

Traveling with a CPAP machine is easier than you might think, especially if the model was designed with portability in mind. But it does require some preparation and adherence to certain guidelines. Here’s a guide on how to travel with a CPAP machine and the essential items to bring along:

Camping with a CPAP machine is feasible, especially for models designed for off-grid use. Most travel CPAP machines come with battery packs that can make it through several nights, and you can use solar charger options for longer trips. For camping in dryer climates, you’ll likely want a model with a built-in humidifier.

By following these guidelines and ensuring you have the necessary items and accessories, you can travel comfortably with your CPAP machine and maintain your sleep therapy routine while away from home.

If you experience obstructive sleep apnea, using your CPAP machine every night is critical to your health. But lugging around a standard CPAP machine isn’t always convenient. Using one of the best travel CPAP machines on our list can allow you to prioritize your health while still traveling and doing the activities you love. Each of our favorite travel CPAP machines has its own standout features, allowing you to find the right option for your needs.

Consider one of the best CPAP alternatives, especially if your sleep apnea is relatively minor.

Have questions about this review? Email us at [email protected]

Yes, a travel CPAP machine can be used at all times, even though it’s primarily designed for portability. While travel CPAP machines are smaller and lighter, they often have many of the same features as a standard home unit.

Medicare usually does not cover travel CPAP machines. Medicare Part B covers a portion of the cost for standard CPAP machines for diagnosed sleep apnea, but travel-specific machines are often considered convenience items rather than medically necessary.

No, you don’t need a doctor’s note to fly with a CPAP machine. CPAP devices are classified as medical equipment, so airlines allow them onboard. However, if you need to use the machine during your flight, you should check with your airline beforehand.