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Imagine you or a loved one is traveling and requires supplemental oxygen at a very uncertain time, how challenging could it be? But not anymore, thanks to the advancement in medical equipment that has enhanced the convenience and has significantly enhanced the life quality.
One of their examples is the Portable Oxygen Concentrator. This portable oxygen machine has made it possible to have supplemental oxygen anywhere, anytime, which also gives the freedom to the individual to maintain their mobility, without feeling like they are restricted due to their respiratory condition or on the oxygen machine that they rely on.
This portable and compact now comes with the option of being powered by batteries or plugged into various power sources, which allows maximum to avail its benefits and use it according to their convenience, for example, if you are someone that travels a lot then having a Portable Oxygen Concentrator that includes additional batteries can serve you well and help you enjoy your traveling stress-free.
Luckily, now portable oxygen concentrators are easily and widely accepted, by airlines, and along with that they are also now accepted by other modes of transportation, however, there are a few things that you need to be considerate about such as to enjoy your traveling with your portable oxygen concentrator requires accurate planning and understanding of rule and regulation regarding it.
In this article, we will explore how you can have safer traveling with your portable oxygen concentration and things that you need to consider such as preparation tips, airline regulations, and strategies, whether you are planning for a small trip or looking forward to an international trip. We are sure that by reading our comprehensive guide you will navigate, you can enjoy the benefits of having portable oxygen, besides you while having a safer travel.
Having a portable oxygen concentrator for travel can be heaven for those, whose lives depend on these vital devices but also want to enjoy life outside and explore things differently as compared to their normal routine. Let us explore how to avail the effectiveness of portable oxygen machines while travelling in different manners such as by air, cruise ship, or by road:
Under the Air Carrier Access Act, U.S. airlines are required to allow passengers to use FAA-approved portable oxygen concentrators during flights. If you are someone who prefers air travel, then you need to remember and understand the like, Air Carrier Access Act, U.S many other airlines only approve passengers to have portable oxygen concentrators beside them when it is FAA-approved.
How to make sure that my portable oxygen concentrator is FAA-approved?
Oxygen machines like portable oxygen concentrators or other types of equipment display a label that indicates that they meet FAA requirements.
The right strategy for carrying a portable oxygen concentrator is to let your airline know that you are bringing your oxygen machine at least 48 hours before your flight. They may also require a statement from your healthcare professional. He can help confirm that you need to carry supplemental oxygen due to your current respiratory condition and that you can operate the device properly.
To avoid any inconvenience during your flight, especially during, it is best to carry extra batteries. Also, check if your airline has any rules and regulations regarding carrying extra batteries and follow them.
If there is any screening procedure required for portable oxygen concentrators, follow their instruction. Along with that also make sure to notify TSA agents regarding it.
Unfortunately, typically airlines do not provide portable oxygen concentrators. However, they give the flexibility of bringing your oxygen concentrator that is FAA-approved.
To take care of customers airlines have other options available like having compressed 0xygen or oxygen bottles that can temporarily give respiratory support. However, it is preferable to bring your portable oxygen concentration, especially if your condition is severe.
Having or renting a portable oxygen concentrator can help you stay easy on your pockets. Rather than opting for the oxygen services during the flight as you need to pay for them each time. Also, the convenience of having and bringing your portable oxygen concentrator allows you to have easy access to oxygen each time when required. Also, you can use it frequently, depending on your respiratory condition during your flight. While reaching your destination or making a return trip, you won’t feel like you can enjoy all this stress-free without the feeling that you have limited access to oxygen.
Feel struck by the situation, because you do not have a portable oxygen concentrator available but need to take a flight in a few days? Here is what you can do:
Many medical equipment or supplier companies provide the service to rent a portable oxygen concentrator. Renting a portable oxygen machine will also give you the benefit of sticking to your budget. Make sure before renting that the portable oxygen concentrator that you are looking forward to rent is FAA-approved.
If you still have not found any supplier that can offer you the service of renting a portable oxygen concentrator. In that case, you can ask your healthcare provider to recommend a supplier. It can give the flexibility of renting a portable oxygen concentrator.
You can also consult the airlines if they have any information regarding third-party providers for renting a POC. It is suitable and approved for being carried on the flight.
Caring for your portable oxygen concentrator, while travelling by cruise ship is also easier. As many of the cruise lines now offer the convenience of bringing it. However, it is still essential that you notify the cruise line ahead to avoid any inconvenience later. By notifying them earlier they can accommodate your needs in a better way.
Many cruise ships offer medical assistance but still, you cannot fully depend on or rely on them. You need to take responsibility for maintaining your respiratory condition and health. This is why it is always recommended to bring extra batteries and backup power sources. They can serve you well in the case of emergencies like having limited access to electrical outlets.
Travelling by car gives you more flexibility than air travel or travelling by cruise ship. As you are not bound or feel restricted due to strict rules and regulations. To avoid any inconvenience while travelling by car, be considerate about a car charger or having an adapter with you. If you have plans to take a break at some places for refreshments, you can also check if they offer the service of charging batteries. Also, make sure to keep your oxygen concentrator in a safe place.
Most major train and bus companies, such as Amtrak and Greyhound, permit POCs on board. Policies may vary, so it’s best to contact the company in advance to confirm requirements. Like air travel, extra batteries and a copy of your physician’s statement are recommended.
Many buses and trains also give you the flexibility of having portable oxygen concentration beside you. However, the policies may vary which is why you must be aware of those. It is better to consult or contact the company before travelling to know all the essential requirements. Such as some companies might require the statements of your health care professional. They might not have the service of charging batteries and knowing this before will help you to take additional batteries.
To enjoy a smooth journey, these are the tips that you can follow:
1. What are the best portable oxygen concentrators for travel?
Inogen oxygen concentrator is considered as best portable oxygen concentrators as they come in compact and lightweight designs. Also, they are FAA-approved model which means that they can be taken anywhere easily.
2. How do I notify an airline that I’ll be bringing a portable oxygen concentrator?
To notify them, you need to contact them directly at least 48 hours before your flight so they can assist you in a better way.
3. Are there any specific FAA-approved models of portable oxygen concentrators?
Inogen oxygen concentrators like Inogen One G4 and Inogen One G5 are FAA-approved models.
4. Can I rent a portable oxygen concentrator for a trip?
Yes, You can easily oxygen concentrators as many medical equipment or supplier companies offer you this service but make sure that it is an FAA-approved model.
5. Travel bag for Philips Respironics simply go mini portable oxygen concentrators?
To find a travel bag compatible with Philips Respironics SimplyGo Mini portable oxygen concentrators, it is preferred to look at the manufacturer or authorized retailer first.
6. What are portable oxygen concentrator prices?
The price of portable oxygen concentrators varies from $1,500 to over $4,000 depending on the model.
7. Portable oxygen concentrator mini battery backup?
The Philips SimplyGo Mini portable oxygen concentrator is ideal to take as a travelling partner as it is lightweight and compact also it has battery backup for up to 4.5 hours.
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