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Traveling With Oxygen

Content provided by: Better Medicine from Healthgrades

It’s okay to travel with oxygen. You just need to plan ahead. Call your healthcare provider to get copies of your oxygen prescription and any other paperwork you’ll need.  Depending on where you’re going and how you’re getting there, you may need to arrange for oxygen to be delivered. Your doctor’s office or medical equipment company can help with this. Before you travel, call the carrier to find out the requirements for traveling with oxygen. Give yourself plenty of time to make needed arrangements.

traveling

By Car

Keep the windows open a crack so air can circulate. If you’re using liquid oxygen, place the unit upright on the floor or on the seat beside you. If possible, secure it with a seat belt. Put extra oxygen units behind the seat. (Don’t put them in the trunk—it’s too hot.) DO NOT SMOKE or let anyone else smoke in the car.

By Bus or Train

Call the carrier in advance and tell them you’re traveling with oxygen. You can likely take your own oxygen on board. You may need to show a copy of your prescription first.

By Plane

Oxygen tanks aren’t allowed on airplanes. But many airlines will supply you with oxygen for a fee. Call the airline in advance to make arrangements. Keep in mind that this oxygen is only supplied while in the plane—not in the airport. You must arrange to have oxygen delivered to your destination, as well as to any layovers during your flight.

By Ship

You can probably bring your own oxygen on board the cruise ship. Call to make arrangements. The cruise line will likely need a letter from your doctor, a brief medical history, and a copy of your oxygen prescription. You must arrange for oxygen units to be delivered to the cruise ship.


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Medical Reviewer: Lesperance, Leann MD Last Annual Review Date: Sep 14, 2010 Copyright: © 2000-2010 The StayWell Company, 780 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Reference: Lungs, Breathing and Respiration section on Better Medicine


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