If you are a CPAP user and have ever typed “Best Carry On Luggage For CPAP” into a search bar, you’re not alone. Many travelers with CPAP machines are searching for the perfect luggage solution.
Traveling with a CPAP machine can be a hassle. At times, it is overwhelming to navigate airport security and make sure your machine is not damaged. As someone who’s been through the headache of traveling with a CPAP machine, I’ve researched and tested various luggage options to find the best fit for CPAP machines.
Quick Overview of Our Top Picks
- Editor’s Choice: CURMIO CPAP Travel Backpack
“This backpack is built for CPAP and travel needs. It also features a large U-shaped top opening, making it easy to pack, see, and grab your CPAP machine.”
- Most Functional Backpack: USA Gear CPAP Travel Backpack
“This bag features customizable padded interior dividers, quick-access side zip opening, and it’s travel-friendly.”
- Best Premium Pick: Briggs & Riley Briefcases
“Not an official CPAP bag, but it can work as a CPAP carry-on for smaller units. Stylish briefcase design with organized compartments and a padded 15” laptop sleeve.”
- Best Budget Option: Carfany CPAP Travel Bag
“Compact CPAP travel bag with two compartments to separate your machine and accessories. Includes a 14” laptop sleeve for added convenience.”
- Wheeled Option: Steve Madden Designer 15 Inch Carry on Suitcase
“Not an official CPAP bag, but this stylish 2-wheeled Steve Madden carry-on can fit smaller CPAP units depending on your setup. Lightweight, water-resistant, and easy to roll through airports.”
Best Carry On Luggage For CPAP Product Reviews
Without further delay, here are our top picks:
Editor’s Choice:
The CURMIO Travel Backpack may look like a conventional backpack with more space. However, it is perfect for carrying a CPAP machine and accessories such as a mask, tubing, hose, etc.
Designed to fit a CPAP machine, the CURMIO Travel Backpack features a lower compartment with a double zipper opening for the CPAP machine. It is compatible with Phillips System One, AirSense9, and AirSense10.
A front zipper exterior pocket is convenient for medicines or small items. Multiple interior pockets with elastic tops offer great organization for small CPAP accessories. These pockets are great for your power supply, headgear strap, mask, etc. In addition, the mesh pocket with “hook and loop” is ideal for carrying your tubing.
The CURMIO Travel Backpack features a padded front compartment to secure the laptop or tablet. Two mesh pockets are conveniently placed on the sides for water bottles, tissues, or umbrellas.
Carrying the CPAP machine is convenient with the backpack’s cushioned strong shoulder straps. An adjustable chest strap/belt helps keep your bag in place.
Benefits
- It has an upper compartment for tubing, mask, headgear strap, power supply, etc.
- The lower bag compartment with the back entry opening is convenient for your CPAP unit
- Compatible with Phillips System One, Air Sense 9, and Air Sense 10 CPAP units
- Multiple interior pockets with elastic top for securing small accessories
- Front, padded compartment for laptop or tablet
- Side stretch mesh pockets for water bottles, tissues, or umbrellas
- Back anti-theft pocket for valuables like a bank card or phone
- Solid handle and padded shoulder straps
- Adjustable, removable chest strap to keep the backpack in place
- Made of durable and high-grade nylon material
- Large U-shaped opening with a two-way zipper for quick access
- Spacious interior to fit items like a blanket, shirt, etc.
- All-around backpack padding for protection of CPAP unit and accessories
- Carry-on bag size: 13 x 7.7 x 15.5 inches
Drawbacks
- Interior pockets for the CPAP machine’s accessories are not transparent for high visibility.
Most Functional Backpack:
The USA GEAR CPAP Machine Travel Backpack is a dedicated CPAP carry-on bag designed to keep your machine and accessories protected, organized, and easy to access while traveling. Unlike standard backpacks, it features a customizable interior with padded dividers to securely hold your CPAP machine, tubing, mask, filters, and additional supplies without shifting around.
A convenient zippered side-door opening provides quick access to your CPAP unit, which is helpful during airport security checks or when you want to reach your equipment without unpacking the entire bag. For comfort during travel days, the backpack includes padded shoulder straps, along with adjustable chest and waist straps to keep the bag stable while walking through terminals.
This CPAP travel backpack is also built with travel practicality in mind, using durable, weather-resistant materials and including a rain cover for added protection. A padded slim compartment can also hold paperwork and even a laptop up to 15.6 inches, making it a strong option for CPAP users who want one organized carry-on solution.
Advantages
- Designed specifically for CPAP travel, with customizable padded dividers for secure organization.
- Side-door quick access makes it easy to reach your CPAP machine without unpacking.
- Travel-ready comfort and protection, including padded straps and a rain cover.
Cons
- Bulkier than simple CPAP carry bags, especially once fully packed.
- Fit depends on CPAP model (larger machines may require careful placement; check dimensions before buying).
The Briggs & Riley @work Medium Expandable Briefcase is a premium business travel bag that looks like a conventional men’s briefcase, making it a great option for travelers who want to carry their CPAP without using a medical-looking CPAP case.
Important note: This is not an official CPAP bag, but it can work well as a CPAP carry-on depending on the size of your CPAP machine. It’s especially suitable for smaller travel CPAP units, and it may also fit full-size machines if packed carefully.
This briefcase includes a padded laptop compartment (fits up to a 15-inch laptop), plus plenty of pockets and sleeves to organize essentials for commuting or short trips. The expandable design (up to 2.5 inches) adds extra room when you need to pack more items. For hardshell cases that include laptop compartments, click here.
Security is also a strong point: it features an RFID-blocking pocket to help protect personal data, plus smart organization for valuables like your wallet, passport, and phone.
Inside, the main compartment offers space for bulkier items, and the interior dividers/pockets can also be used to keep CPAP accessories, such as your mask, tubing, and power supply, neat and separated from other items.
Benefits
- Premium briefcase look (doesn’t resemble a medical bag)
- Expandable by up to 2.5 inches for extra packing room
- Padded laptop compartment for up to a 15-inch laptop
- RFID-blocking pocket for cards/passport protection
- Excellent organization for cables, accessories, small travel essentials
- Carry-on friendly design for business trips and frequent travel
Drawbacks
- Not a dedicated CPAP case (fit depends on CPAP model)
- Not as protective as a true CPAP bag with CPAP-specific padding/compartments
Best Budget Option:
The Carfany CPAP Travel Bag is a practical carry case designed for travelers who want to keep their CPAP machine and accessories organized in one compact bag. It features a two-compartment layout, allowing you to store the CPAP unit in one section while keeping essentials like your mask, tubing, headgear strap, and power supply neatly separated in the other. This design helps prevent accessories from getting tangled or shifting around during travel.
For added convenience, the bag also includes a dedicated laptop compartment that fits up to a 14-inch laptop, making it a useful option for business trips or flights where you want to carry your work and medical gear together. Made from lightweight, water-resistant polyester, it’s easy to carry through airports and works well as a carry-on or personal-item style CPAP bag.
Advantages
- Built for CPAP travel, with separate compartments for machine and accessories
- Carry-on friendly and lightweight, ideal for airport and flight use
- Laptop compartment (fits 14”) adds extra value for commuters and business travelers
Cons
- Laptop slot is limited to 14 inches, so larger laptops won’t fit
- Not as spacious as a CPAP backpack, especially if you pack extra items beyond CPAP gear
Wheeled Option:
The Steve Madden 2-wheeled carry-on suitcase is a stylish rolling travel bag that can also work as a CPAP carry-on, depending on the size of your CPAP machine. While it isn’t a CPAP-specific case, its lightweight build and multi-compartment interior make it a convenient option for travelers who want a more fashionable bag.
It features an ergonomic telescoping handle and smooth-rolling wheels, making it easy to maneuver through airports. Its compact size may also fit under the seat on some airlines, depending on the aircraft and seat configuration, which can be helpful if you want quick access to your CPAP equipment during the flight.
Benefits
- Two rear roller wheels for smooth, easy mobility through airports
- Telescoping push-button handle for comfortable one-hand pulling
- Multiple compartments and zippered pockets for organizing CPAP accessories and travel items
- Lightweight, water-resistant polyester exterior for everyday travel durability
- Compact carry-on size (15 x 14 x 9 inches) and may work as an underseat bag on some airlines
Cons
- Not an official CPAP bag (fit depends on CPAP model and accessories)
- Two-wheel design rolls in one direction, not as flexible as spinner luggage
Disclaimer: Product info, titles, and images may vary from descriptions due to updates. Information is for reference; check the live listing for accuracy.
TSA Rules For Traveling With A CPAP Machine
What does TSA say about bringing the best CPAP travel bag on your flight? TSA states, “must be removed from its carrying case and undergo X-ray screening. You can keep the accessories like hoses, tubing, and facemasks in the CPAP case. However, you may provide a clear plastic bag to place the device through the X-ray.“
So, moving forward, I get it; if you’re anything like me, you won’t go anywhere without your machine, yet lugging it around is a challenge. And showing it to everyone can be intimidating. Some travelers choose to check larger or heavier bags, depending on airline size and weight limits. This guide focuses on popular carry-on luggage options commonly used for traveling with a CPAP machine. Let’s explore a few carry-on options that may work well for your CPAP needs.
Benefits of getting a fitting CPAP bag
When you get a dedicated luggage for your machine, you have fewer bags to carry. Moreover, you can keep your hands free to manage your luggage.
In addition, this type of luggage should have all the critical features to make traveling much more manageable. Most medical devices are delicate, and strategically packing them is necessary. Not to mention you don’t want your machine exposed to germs.
With the right bag, it is easier to manage your machine and keep it in a clear plastic bag for high visibility during scanning. In addition, using a clear plastic bag may reduce handling and helps keep the device cleaner during screening.
When you have a suitable carry-on bag for CPAP, you also have room for your CPAP personal extras. And separate compartments are a must for the organization of your things. CPAP is a delicate medical device, so the other stuff in the bag mustn’t mess with it.
The best type of luggage for CPAP will have more padding than the case your company provided. You can protect your CPAP machine with adequate padding. In addition, with extra space in the compartment, you may even shield the unit with a rolled or folded shirt all around the device to protect it from accidental bumps.
The best benefit of all is to have your CPAP machine at your fingertips during your flight. Imagine having a long flight, and you need to sleep during the flight. You basically need a bag that makes your machine easily accessible for you to use.
TSA CPAP Guidelines
What does TSA say about bringing a CPAP machine? TSA states, “must be removed from its carrying case and undergo X-ray screening. You can keep the accessories like hoses, tubing, and facemasks in the CPAP case. However, you may provide a clear plastic bag to place the device through the X-ray.“
If you have a CPAP machine, having all its components in one bag is more convenient. You can pack the unit in a carry-on bag with the rest of your essentials. This way, you only have to carry one bag with your CPAP machine. In addition, the bag does not draw attention to the CPAP device, therefore, making it incognito.
What To Look For When Buying Carry On Luggage For CPAP
Because of the sensitivity of the CPAP machine or any medical equipment, many travelers prefer to carry it in their carry-on luggage for easier access and protection. It is, therefore, important that the luggage for CPAP have the following features:
All Around Padding For Protection
Like your laptop, your CPAP needs protection from impact and accidental bumps. Choose the luggage with an all-around cushion or padding to shield the machine from external forces. Aside from the sturdy luggage or backpack material, extra protection from the bag’s interior is essential.
Multiple Interior Pockets For Accessories
Having one pocket for every single CPAP accessory will keep the luggage organized and neat. It will also be easy to access the accessories when needed. And extra separate pockets and sleeves to store other stuff, such as a laptop or tablet, will make everything handy for your travel.
Carrying Comfort
Whether it’s a backpack or a wheeled suitcase, carrying comfort is a critical feature. It’s best to have a backpack with adjustable shoulder straps and a chest strap to distribute the weight evenly. On the other hand, a wheeled suitcase with an ergonomically designed handle will help maneuver the luggage smoothly.
FAQ About Luggage For CPAP
You may have some questions about luggage for CPAP so we have put together 3 frequently asked questions.
Can I fly with my CPAP machine as a carry-on?
Yes, you can fly with your CPAP machine in your carry-on. A CPAP machine is a medical device. However, TSA does have some regulations you must follow. You will need to remove the equipment to go through the X-ray scanner. Therefore, it’s best to put the CPAP machine in a clear plastic bag to prevent exposure to germs.
Where do you pack a CPAP when flying?
You can pack it in both your carry-on and checked bags. However, keeping it protected on all sides is important. Place the device in the center of the bag, surrounded and covered by your shirt, towel, or other soft items, to act as an extra cushion. Make sure that you shield the device correctly to avoid damage from impact.
How do you travel internationally with a CPAP machine?
Traveling internationally with your CPAP machine means keeping your device in your carry-on luggage, which many travelers prefer for easier access and protection. Use a bag that is well-padded for protection and has pockets to organize all your belongings.
Additional Resources
If you are looking for more tutorials, walkthroughs, and troubleshooting on Luggage Accessories, here are some additional posts about Luggage Accessories:
Overall
If you have a medical condition that requires a CPAP machine, you will want to have it easily accessible. Pack the unit in a suitable luggage bag to avoid compromising your health. And because you are using a carry-on luggage or backpack, you’re flying incognito. No one would even know that you’re carrying a CPAP machine in your well-disguised bag.
I hope this article helped you! Happy Travels, my friends.