Skip to content
Table of Contents
Sleeping Outside and Camping with a CPAP Machine
Sleeping outside basically means that you’re following the sun’s schedule. You can Improve your sleep apnea symptoms by using a CPAP and camping more often. So even if you’re not getting more sleep camping, the timing of your sleep gets in sync with natural melatonin levels, so it’s easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling more rested.
Studies have shown sleeping outside is important for re-calibrating your sleep cycle. Camping means that you’re not watching TV or using your iPhone before bed. Apart from being stimulants, the electronic device also emit blue light which can affect melatonin levels and make it hard to fall asleep
Can I use my CPAP machine camping?
Many people, after being diagnosed with sleep apnea and begin PAP therapy, can’t imagine spending another night without their CPAP machine because their quality of life has improved so much. There are several options for campers with sleep apnea and don’t want to return to their pre-CPAP ways:
Take your portable CPAP machine camping
Pack it up and take it with you to the campsite. If you’ve recently upgraded to a new CPAP device and held on to your older CPAP device, that’s a great option for traveling. You’ll need to figure out a power source like a battery for CPAP machine camping. There are even solar chargers that will allow you to charge the device during the day. You can also carry a backup of the CPAP battery pack.
Use a travel CPAP
These machines are much smaller and lighter than your regular CPAP and battery operated. Insurance won’t cover a second CPAP purchase, but it is worth the investment, or you can use HSA or FSA funds.
Use a CPAP alternative like Provent or an oral appliance.
Provent is a disposable nasal device placed just inside the nostrils and held securely in place with a Band-aid-like adhesive. The device uses a proprietary MicroValve design that creates pressure when you exhale to keep your air track open.
Oral appliances are dental devices that function to eliminate apneas by keeping the tissue of the throat from sagging into the windpipe. They are not as effective as CPAP at apnea elimination but are an option for those who cannot tolerate CPAP or for occasional use.
These options are usually only recommended for those with acute obstructive sleep apnea, but they can work well for the occasional travel or camping trip even if you have more severe sleep apnea. Even if you’re a mouth-breather, these alternatives may help to lessen snoring and apnea if used with a chin strap.
Don’t let snoring or CPAP stop you from enjoying and spending time outdoors this summer.
Shop
