Travelling with Oxygen

 

Not every airline handles oxygen the same way, so it’s worth doing a bit of homework before you book.

If you’re flying WestJet, the process is relatively straightforward. They don’t require advance medical clearance. As long as your portable concentrator is on their approved device list and you’re carrying enough battery for 150% of your total flight time, you’re good to go. Just remember that extra batteries need to stay in your carry-on, they can’t go in checked luggage.

Air Canada has a few more steps. They require a medical pre-approval process, which means you’ll need a letter from your physician and you’ll need to notify the airline ahead of time. We’d recommend getting this started several weeks before your departure date. It’s not complicated, but it does take time, and the last thing you want is to be scrambling the week before your trip.

 

 

This is something a lot of travellers don’t realize at first: you’ll want two sources of oxygen when you’re away from home. Your portable concentrator is perfect for daytime use, but most portables only deliver pulse dose oxygen, meaning they deliver a burst of oxygen when they detect you breathing in. That works great while you’re awake, but it’s not reliable for overnight use. When you’re asleep, your breathing patterns change, and a pulse dose device may not pick up every breath so we will provide you with a compact continuous flow platform to use overnight.

That’s why you’ll need a continuous flow option for nighttime. We can help you arrange the right setup so you’re covered around the clock, whether you’re on the plane, out exploring during the day, or settled in for the night at your hotel.

 

 

One of the biggest worries we hear from patients is running out of power mid-flight. That’s a completely reasonable concern, and it’s one we take seriously. Peak Oxygen can supply additional batteries, extra concentrators, and the right continuous flow equipment so you have backup on the plane, during layovers, and once you arrive at your destination. We plan for the “what ifs” so you don’t have to stress about them.

 

 

Give your airline at least 48 hours’ notice that you’ll be travelling with oxygen. Bring your physician’s letter and prescription with you. Keep your concentrator and all batteries in your carry-on. Make sure your total battery life covers at least 150% of your flight time. And give us a call before you leave so we can arrange equipment for your return trip too.

 

 

Our local Calgary team is available 24/7, before your trip, while you’re away, and when you get back. If something comes up or you just have a question, we’re here.