Do airlines count CPAP as carry-on?

No, a CPAP machine cannot be counted as a carry-on. Because of its status as a medical device, domestic flights (in the U.S.) are not legally allowed to count your CPAP machine against your carry-on bag total, and you're encouraged to board with your device rather than check it in with your luggage.



No, in 2026, almost all major airlines do not count a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine toward your standard carry-on or personal item limit because it is classified as a medically necessary device. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and FAA regulations, these devices receive "Special Handling" status. You are allowed to carry the CPAP in its own dedicated travel bag in addition to your regular luggage at no extra charge. When going through security, you must remove the main CPAP unit from its bag and place it in a bin for X-ray screening, similar to a laptop, though you can leave the mask and tubing in the bag. It is a "pro-tip" to label the bag as "Medical Equipment" to avoid confusion at the boarding gate. If you plan to use the machine during a long-haul flight, ensure it is FAA-approved and that you have an external battery pack that can last for 150% of the flight duration, as many onboard power outlets are not rated for the "startup" surge of medical equipment.

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No, a CPAP machine cannot be counted as a carry-on. Because of its status as a medical device, domestic flights (in the U.S.) are not legally allowed to count your CPAP machine against your carry-on bag total, and you're encouraged to board with your device rather than check it in with your luggage.

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Carry-on devices Mobility and medical devices don't count toward carry-on limits. If space is limited, the device doesn't fit in the cabin or if it isn't required during the flight, it may need to be checked.

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A respiratory device is considered an assistive device and may be carried on the aircraft or checked without charge. A respiratory device may be carried onboard for use in the cabin or transported as checked baggage.

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Yet, more than three-quarters of CPAP users say they use their CPAP machine at least some of the time while traveling. “It's important to pack your CPAP machine whenever you travel, since OSA must be treated continuously, just like any other medical condition.”

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A nebulizer, CPAP, BiPAP and APAP must be removed from its carrying case and undergo X-ray screening. Facemasks and tubing may remain in the case.

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As mentioned, you don't need to have your pills in their original bottles under TSA guidelines. However, when traveling out of the country, having those pills in their original prescription bottles may make the customs process smoother and simpler.

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Upon request, FDA has classified the positive airway pressure delivery system as class II (special controls), which we have determined will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness.

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Not all hotels will have distilled water readily available, and depending on where you are staying, you also may not be able to purchase it in stores.

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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.

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If distilled or filtered water is unavailable, you can consider using bottled water as an alternative. Look for bottles labeled as “distilled” or “purified” to help minimize mineral content. However, keep in mind that not all bottled waters are created equal, and some may still contain minerals and additives.

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All US airlines will allow you to use your CPAP machine during flight because it is a medical device. You should call the airline at least 48 hours in advance and ask for their official policies if you're flying internationally.

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You're Allowed to Pack Up to 3.4 Ounces of Distilled Water. Keeping a small amount of distilled water in your carry-on bag will be a big help if you need to use your CPAP in-flight, or soon after landing. You're allowed to pack more than that in your checked luggage, too.

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