Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) must be treated continuously, just like high blood pressure. If you decide to go without your CPAP machine, even if only for a night or two, your symptoms will reoccur. Some insurance companies even have a minimum usage requirement for the user to get reimbursed.

In 2026, medical professionals strongly advise against skipping your CPAP therapy, even for a single night on vacation. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a chronic condition that doesn't take a holiday; skipping treatment can lead to immediate arousals, oxygen desaturation, and severe daytime fatigue, which can ruin your travel experience. More seriously, 2026 health data emphasizes that inconsistent use increases the risk of heart strain and stroke. Furthermore, many 2026 insurance providers track "compliance" data via the machine's cellular link; skipping weeks of therapy could jeopardize your insurance coverage for the device or future supplies. For 2026 travel, it is much better to invest in a travel-sized CPAP (like the AirMini or Z2) or use a custom-fitted oral appliance. Most airlines in 2026 treat CPAP machines as "exempt" medical equipment, meaning they do not count toward your carry-on bag limit.