Travelling with oxygen

Talk to your doctor

Consult with your doctor or primary healthcare provider about your travel plans. If you’re flying, you may require extra medication since the reduced air pressure in an aircraft affects your blood oxygen levels.

You may also need additional oxygen for the trip.

Ask your doctor for a brief medical history document you can take with you, which lists your medications and oxygen therapy prescription. This will help if you lose your baggage or need medical attention.

Talk to your travel provider

Whether you plan to travel by car, bus, train, ship or plane - each type of transport may require a different approach to your oxygen therapy. For example, you will need to apply for special approval from some airlines.

As long as everyone is notified well in advance you should avoid unnecessary difficulties.

Every travel provider has different rules about the type of oxygen equipment you can use. Regulations will vary, but the key thing to remember is that it will take time to complete the paperwork which will make your travel possible.

Let VitalAire know you will be travelling

We can provide you oxygen therapy support for your travel to most popular destinations so that your hotel or other accommodation is prepared for your arrival.

For optimal support, we require a minimum of two weeks’ notice for domestic travel and four weeks for overseas travel. Ideally, try to plan it so you arrive at your destination on a weekday, when support is more readily available. 

Use this handy checklist to help you plan your travel. Starting the process at least eight weeks before your trip will allow plenty of time for all the arrangements to be made.