How to Go Camping with Sleep Apnea

If you have sleep apnea, you know traveling can be a pain. Even staying in a 5-star hotel isn’t without difficulties. Somehow, many hotels have yet to place the correct amount of conveniently located outlets near the bed. Not to mention there being little space for a CPAP machine on those bedside tables. Or in your luggage.

• So if you’re a lover of the great outdoors and all of the world’s open spaces...
• Of setting up camp, cooking over an open fire, and then falling asleep to the sound of rustling leaves...
• Waking up in the morning as the sun’s cool light starts to peep through the trees, rolling out of your cocoon, and stepping out into the crisp air to rekindle the fire and boil water for a french press…

Then you definitely know that sleep apnea is inconvenient.

Camping Solutions

There is always the option of leaving your CPAP at home and going without. (Don’t do it!) However--apart from scaring your camping buddies with your midnight bear snores--this option can leave you with getting little sleep, causing you to be grumpy.Which means you’re unable to enjoy the fresh scent of being in the great wide open. Thankfully, for all of you nature enthusiasts, technology is always advancing, which erases some of the bumps when it comes to doing things you love, like camping and backpacking. Nowadays, there are several options for you if you have sleep apnea.

Think Small

While in the past CPAP machines have been bulky and inconvenient to travel with, much less camp with, there are now travel sized CPAP machines! Not only are CPAP machines being made smaller, but so are their batteries. A decade ago, you may have had to lug around a car battery to charge your CPAP machine while camping. Not anymore my friend. Batteries for your CPAP machine are now just as travel-sized as the machine itself for your camping convenience!

Think Solar

There is even better news for you diehard backpackers...solar-powered CPAP machines. Although these can be pricey, you’re paying for their convenience. And it’s worth it. They come with batteries and solar panels to recharge those batteries during the day.

Think Unplugged

Last but not least, there is always the option of getting an oral appliance. These are extremely lightweight and portable, and they may be a good option for you if you have mild to moderate sleep apnea. They’re small and don’t need batteries at all.

Fear not, adventurers and lovers of the outdoors. Sleep apnea should not keep you from what you love. You can and will overcome! Today’s technology has heard your cries, and new ways have been paved for your active lifestyle. Since there are several options for your camping desires, talk to your doctor about a good option for you, and get outside!