Tips For Traveling With Home Oxygen
You can safely travel to many destinations as an oxygen patient. If you have breathing problems and are on home oxygen, you'll want to take a few extra steps when making your travel plans. Follow these tips for a smoother travel-planning process:
Flying
- Let the airline know you'll need your oxygen on board. It's best to let your airline know you'll need your oxygen tank and supplies on your flight two weeks prior to your travel date. It's especially important that you tell them no later than 48 hours before traveling if at all possible, as they may not be able to accommodate you with shorter notice. Remind the airline staff that you'll have your oxygen on the plane when you arrive at the airport.
- Plan to have plenty of oxygen with you. Airports won't provide you with oxygen when you're not on a plane. This includes during a flight delay or layover, so plan for the unexpected.
- Get to the airport early and have your records with you. Make plans to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes prior to your departure. Keep your oxygen prescription and any records relating to your treatment with you in case airport or airline personnel or security employees ask to see them.
- Keep yourself healthy. Airports and airplanes are breeding grounds for germs that could make you sick. Make sure you're up-to-date on all of your immunizations before you leave, especially if you'll be traveling abroad. Wash your hands often and stay away from people who are coughing or appear to be sick.
Hotels
- Steer clear of smoke. Ask for a non-smoking room when you book your hotel. Avoid areas where smoking is permitted in your hotel, such as bars or restaurants.
- Insist on room cleanliness. If there are any cleaning products that trigger breathing-related symptoms for you, request that the cleaning staff avoid using certain products or chemicals in your room for the duration of your stay .
General Travel Tips
- Have your medical information handy. Write down all of your doctors' names and telephone numbers and the phone number for your oxygen supplier before you leave. Make sure you have your insurance cards with you.
- Call your oxygen supplier before your trip. Give your supplier a call and ask them if they would be able to provide oxygen to you at your destination in case you run out or need more while you're away from home.
- Choose the right destination. Select a travel destination that has good air quality and isn't at a high altitude if you can.
- Discuss it with your doctor. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns before your trip, particularly if you're going to visit a high-altitude area or a city with highly-polluted air.
Implement these tips and talk with your home oxygen supplier about any additional questions you have about using your equipment away from home for a smooth, pleasant travel experience.
For more tips about oxygen, contact a professional like Home Medix Inc.