Power and travel
CPAP battery
A battery pack that runs a CPAP machine without mains power, for camping, power outages or long flights.
Why it helps
A battery lets you keep using therapy when there is no outlet, which matters for camping, during power cuts, and on flights where you plan to use the machine onboard. US airlines may require you to bring enough fully charged batteries to run the device for at least 150% of the expected maximum flight duration (14 CFR 382.133).
How to choose
The battery must match your machine. Machine makers sell batteries or DC converters for specific models; using the wrong output voltage or plug can damage the machine or simply not work. Size the battery from the manufacturer's power figures: ResMed's battery guide shows that the heated humidifier and heated tubing multiply power use. For an AirSense 10 at 10 cm H2O on 12 V DC, it lists 0.93 A with SlimLine tubing alone versus 3.66 A with the humidifier set to 8. Running without the humidifier is the biggest single way to stretch a battery. ResMed also notes that a DC converter is more efficient than an inverter. For flying, check the watt-hour (Wh) rating printed on the battery: Wh equals volts times amp hours.
FAA rules for lithium ion batteries: up to 100 Wh per battery is allowed; 101 to 160 Wh needs airline approval, with no more than two such spare batteries per person; above 160 Wh is not allowed. Spare lithium batteries must be in carry-on baggage only, with terminals protected from short circuit (tape, original packaging or a separate pouch). Airlines can be stricter, so check with yours before flying. Damaged or recalled batteries must not be carried.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take a CPAP battery on a plane?
Yes, within FAA limits: lithium ion batteries up to 100 Wh are allowed, 101 to 160 Wh need airline approval (two spares maximum), and anything over 160 Wh is forbidden. Spares go in carry-on only, with terminals protected.
How long will a battery run my CPAP?
It depends on pressure, humidifier and heated tube use. ResMed's battery guide shows an AirSense 10 drawing several times more current with the humidifier on than off, so turning off humidification greatly extends run time.
How many batteries does the airline require?
Under 14 CFR 382.133, a US carrier may require enough fully charged batteries to power the device for at least 150% of the expected maximum flight duration. Ask the airline for its requirements when you book.
Sources
Last reviewed October 11, 2026. How we research · Report an error