What I Wish I’d Known Before Travelling with Oxygen

What I Wish I’d Known Before Travelling with Oxygen

I thought the hardest part would be getting through airport security. It wasn’t. It was the tiny elevator at the hotel in Lisbon that couldn’t fit both me and my portable oxygen concentrator.

Let’s start with this: if you’re even considering travelling with medical oxygen, you already deserve a medal. It takes planning, resilience, and just a little bit of blind faith. But if you do it right, the rewards far outweigh the worries.

So here it is, not a medical manual, not a checklist, but the kind of advice you’d get from someone who’s done it. Someone who’s dealt with the cables, the customs forms, the “Where’s your prescription?” stares. And yes, someone who’s called for help from a hotel lobby in a language they barely speak.

Your confidence might wobble. That’s completely normal.

The lead-up to travel is always the hardest part. Even if you’ve got every document, every adapter, every delivery arranged in advance, there’s still that pause before you leave home. “What if I can’t cope? What if something goes wrong?”

It’s not weakness. It’s reality. When you live with oxygen support, you learn to rely on your routines. You know how far your tubing stretches at home. You know how long your concentrator battery really lasts, not what the manual says. Travel throws all of that up in the air.

One thing that helped? Knowing I wasn’t doing it alone. I had OxygenWorldwide lined up in the background. Their team didn’t just deliver oxygen; they gave me backup. If I needed a replacement or something failed en route, there was someone I could call, in English, French, or Spanish. That makes all the difference. They also made sure everything was in place before I arrived. Not just the equipment, but the peace of mind.

Portable doesn’t always mean practical.

You see the word “portable” and think: lightweight, easy, discreet. Not always the case.

Some concentrators are bulky. Others have wheels, but the wrong kind for cobblestones. Batteries that claim “up to 8 hours” often mean 3.5 on continuous flow. And then there’s airport security, train platforms, rental cars with too-small boots.

What I learned the hard way: size and weight aren’t everything. Charging flexibility matters. Can you plug in on the go? Will your power cord work in Italy and France? How noisy is the machine in a quiet restaurant?

If I could rewind time, I’d have asked OxygenWorldwide to help me match my equipment to my destination. Hilly town in southern Italy? Lightweight unit with a shoulder strap. City hopping by train? Something with easy battery swaps and a decent carrying case. In some cases, even switching to liquid oxygen can make a difference—if it’s available locally and better suited to your mobility.

Each country has its own rules and surprises.

You’d think medical oxygen is a universal need. But the rules for delivery, refills, and use vary wildly.

In France, I needed a local prescription. In Spain, my hotel wouldn’t accept delivery unless I was already checked in. In Germany, they needed my arrival time to the minute. In the Netherlands, they were incredibly efficient—but expected me to be, too. The paperwork alone could put off the bravest traveller.

It’s not impossible to manage, but it is a puzzle. That’s where OxygenWorldwide shone: they knew the local quirks and smoothed things over in advance. They even helped liaise with the suppliers to make sure everything met the requirements of the country I was visiting. And when one of the delivery vans had trouble accessing a pedestrian zone in a historic city, they rerouted everything without me lifting a finger.

Hotels can be a weak link. Plan ahead.

Most hotel staff are kind. But that doesn’t mean they understand what a concentrator is or why you might need a ground-floor room with socket access.

Always email ahead. Ask about lifts. Ask about stairs. Ask about fridge space (some meds require it). Be annoyingly specific if needed.

If you’re using a service like OxygenWorldwide to arrange delivery, double-check that the hotel is ready to accept the equipment. I once had a front desk refuse my oxygen delivery because “we don’t store medical items.” It took two calls and an intervention from the local supplier to sort it out. After that, I made a habit of calling every hotel 48 hours in advance just to confirm they were expecting the delivery.

You might surprise yourself.

Yes, you’ll tire more easily. You’ll need to rest. But you’ll also eat outside in a plaza, or watch the sun go down from a bench overlooking the sea, and you’ll remember why you did this.

You’ll rediscover your independence. Even if you need support along the way, the decision to travel is yours. That alone can feel like a win.

A fellow traveller once told me: “My world got small when I started oxygen. Travelling made it big again.”

That stuck with me.

Things go wrong. That’s why support matters.

Delayed flights. Plug adapters that melt (yes, really). An oxygen tube that splits when you’re nowhere near a pharmacy. A missing delivery driver. A hotel receptionist who doesn’t know what a concentrator is and tries to send it back.

These things happen. The question is: what then?

If you’re already a client of OxygenWorldwide, you’re not stuck. They’ve got an emergency support line that isn’t just a form or chatbot. They’ll speak your language and talk you through the next steps. That’s not a luxury. That’s peace of mind.

And it’s worth noting: they don’t just help individuals. They also work with insurers, hospitals, and oxygen suppliers back home. If you’ve just been discharged from hospital abroad or need oxygen on arrival from your flight, they’re often the link that makes it all come together.

What it all comes down to

Travelling with oxygen takes courage. But courage doesn’t mean doing it all alone. It means planning smartly, having support in place, and knowing your limits without letting them define you.

Would I do it again? Absolutely.

But next time, I’ll book the hotel room with the wide lift. I’ll pack extra nasal cannulas. And I’ll give myself a bit more credit for doing something brave.

If you’re planning a trip and need oxygen support at your destination, OxygenWorldwide can help.

They work in multiple languages, across borders, and with an international network of trusted suppliers. Their team helps arrange the right oxygen for the right country, whether you’re going to Portugal for a few weeks or relocating to Spain for good.

Book an enquiry now

by nick

How to Choose the Right Oxygen Equipment for Your Time Abroad

How to Choose the Right Oxygen Equipment for Your Time Abroad

Traveling or living abroad with medical oxygen doesn’t have to feel like solving a riddle while jetlagged. But let’s be honest—picking the right oxygen equipment can feel a little like that at first.

So how do you know whether to bring a portable concentrator, rent cylinders, or ask about liquid oxygen for longer stays?

Let’s break it down. This guide walks you through how to choose the right oxygen solution for your time abroad—whether you’re away for a week, a season, or much longer. And if it all starts to feel overwhelming, don’t worry—OxygenWorldwide is here to help you make the best choice for your needs.

Duration, Destination & Diagnosis: Why These Matter

Not all trips—or lungs—are created equal.

Are you spending 10 days in a flat in Nice, or are you wintering in Malaga? Are you managing exertion-related desaturation or using oxygen around the clock?

These factors shape your equipment choice:

  • Short stays (1–14 days)
    Portable concentrators are usually best. Easy to travel with, rechargeable, and accepted on many airlines.

  • Medium stays (2–6 weeks)
    A mix. Portable concentrator for travel and backup, plus cylinders or LOX (liquid oxygen) at your accommodation.

  • Long-term stays (2+ months)
    Home concentrators or LOX systems may be better. We'll help you avoid massive cylinders stacked in your Airbnb.

  • Diagnosis considerations
    COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, Long Covid, or OSA? Each condition comes with different flow rate and delivery needs—your prescription should always guide your final choice.

The Main Equipment Options (Pros & Cons)

Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs)

Best for: Travel, day trips, short stays

  • Lightweight, rechargeable, and airline-approved (if FAA listed)

  • Usually sufficient for people with mild-to-moderate needs

  • Some models have limited flow rates

  • Battery life drops in hot weather or with high settings

OxygenWorldwide Tip: We'll confirm that your model is compatible with your airline or destination. And we can deliver a different model abroad if yours isn’t.

Oxygen Cylinders (Compressed Gas)

Best for: Medium stays, overnight use, or home-based recovery

  • Easy to set up at your destination
  • Familiar for many long-term users
  • Not allowed in aircraft unless completely empty
  • Require regular replacement or refilling

Did you know? In some countries, we can have cylinders waiting for you on arrival—even in rental properties or hotels. Just give us your address and prescription.

Liquid Oxygen (LOX)

Best for: High-flow needs, long stays, or warmer climates

  • Stores large volumes in compact tanks
  • Provides consistent high-flow oxygen
  • Can’t fly with it—must be delivered locally
  • More fragile than cylinders or concentrators

Good to know: LOX isn’t available everywhere. We’ll tell you if your destination supports it—and if not, we’ll suggest the next-best alternative.

Questions to Ask Before You Travel

Before you choose your equipment, make sure you or your doctor can answer the following:

  • What is your prescribed flow rate (L/min)?
  • Do you need continuous flow or pulse-dose delivery?
  • Will you need oxygen overnight (i.e. while sleeping)?
  • What altitude or climate are you heading to?
  • How mobile are you—do you need lightweight gear for walking or excursions?

Your answers here shape everything else.

Planning for Backup & Emergencies

Even the best equipment can run into trouble—especially when you’re dealing with power adapters, foreign plugs, or the occasional taxi driver who stores your POC in the boot under three suitcases.

Pack or plan for:

  • Spare nasal cannulas and tubing
  • Printed prescription and medical letter (with translation if needed)
  • Fully charged backup batteries or a car adapter
  • Clear labels on all equipment
  • Our 24/7 support line (provided to OxygenWorldwide clients)

Need a replacement delivered to your villa in Portugal? We can handle that.

Real Talk: When You Shouldn’t Travel With Equipment at All

Sometimes, it's simpler to leave your oxygen equipment at home and have everything delivered to your destination.

  • You’re staying in one location
  • You want to avoid airline restrictions
  • You’re worried about managing power conversions or customs delays
  • You’re planning a cruise or Mediterranean tour (which we can support in many cases!)

Let us coordinate it for you—from equipment type to delivery schedule to local supplier contact. You just need to show up and start breathing easy.

How OxygenWorldwide Makes It All Work

We’ve helped thousands of oxygen users navigate the maze of travel and relocation—especially in Europe.

Here’s what we offer:

  • Pre-arranged oxygen at your destination
  • Assistance with paperwork and prescriptions
  • Multilingual support (and yes, actual humans answering the phone)
  • Backup plans if things go wrong (device failure, changed accommodations)
  • Cruise and multi-destination travel support in supported regions

We don’t just ship equipment. We help you live fully while managing your oxygen needs with dignity and peace of mind.

Ready to Plan? Let’s Talk.

Tell us where you’re going, for how long, and what your oxygen needs are. We’ll help you choose the setup that makes the most sense—not just medically, but practically, too.

Reach out to get started.

 

by nick

Oxygen Support for Recovery Abroad

What Happens After You Leave the Hospital? Oxygen Support for Recovery Abroad

Traveling can be stressful as well as wonderful. Falling ill while abroad is stressful and often not wonderful at all. Finally being discharged from hospital in another country can be both a huge relief – and a whole new level of worry! This is especially the case if you've been prescribed oxygen therapy to help you get back to tip-top health – how will you access oxygen in a foreign country with a brand-new prescription and no idea how the system works, what the rules and regulations are or even how to properly take care of your equipment as yet? 

That's where OxygenWorldwide comes in – we can help you navigate your new world using our decades of experience and our wide network of local suppliers. Let's have a closer look at how you can access travel oxygen support after hospital stay so you can begin recovering abroad with oxygen therapy with no qualms or worries – and how OxygenWorldwide can help with the whole process.

Once you've left hospital, you are on your own when it comes to paying attention to how you feel, and also with getting to grips with your new treatment regime. If it's not yet time to fly home, you might find yourself trying to manage your recovery in a hotel room, rental property or in a friend's spare room, with no real idea of how to order oxygen. 

  • Where does it come from? 
  • Is it delivered like online shopping, or is there more to it than that? 
  • How heavy is oxygen? 
  • Can one just collect it from a dispensing pharmacy, like antibiotics? (The answer to the last one is always no, by the way!) 

The good news is that OxygenWorldwide can help you source medical oxygen for recovery outside hospital, and we can effortlessly guide you through all the necessary steps, keeping you safe as you smoothly transition into a practiced medical oxygen user.

Why You Might Need Oxygen After Leaving Hospital Abroad

There are several conditions which require long-term oxygen use, but there are also several short-term illnesses which are greatly improved by the use of medical oxygen. These include respiratory ailments like pneumonia, Covid-19, cardiac events (if your heart is not working effectively, you can end up short of breath) and other surgeries. While you would not be released from hospital while you are still ill enough to need active treatment, there is usually a short period of recovery time when you will still need oxygen after hospital discharge abroad before you feel well enough to do without it. 

While hospitals do sometimes supply equipment that you need to use your supplemental oxygen while in your holiday accommodation, they don't always do so feeling, perhaps, that if you are stable enough for hospital release, you will be able to source your own equipment. Alternatively, you might be well enough to be released from hospital, but still be too unwell to travel immediately. Either way, in all these scenarios, you are in a foreign country, reliant upon supplemental oxygen and not quite feeling yourself.

Common Scenarios OxygenWorldwide Supports

Depending on the country (we have excellent links with some countries, good connections in a great number of others, and there are a few for which we would only be able to offer telephone support and advice. The following is a list of eventualities that we could help you with:

  • Recovery period in a holiday home or a second residence if you are lucky enough to own one of these
  • Discharge from hospital to a hotel or short-term rental (Airbnb, a serviced apartment, that sort of accommodation) while waiting for your previously booked flight to come along
  • Prepping you for oxygen-assisted travel home – repatriation while using supplemental oxygen is perfectly possible, but it does come with new rules and regulations and extra steps such as arranging for flight-compliant equipment and understanding the rules of traveling with medical oxygen
  • Organising transit between countries, if necessary, with oxygen arranged for you at each destination to ensure that you are in good shape for the next leg of your voyage
  • We can even help you make arrangements for family members who are traveling with you and need coordinated support too

What Can OxygenWorldwide Arrange?

We can help you to source your oxygen in the format of your choice: concentrators, cylinders or LOX tanks – which can be delivered to wherever you are staying, no matter if it is a private home, a short-term let, or a hotel room. We can tailor your oxygen order for as long as you need it, no matter whether it is for one night or for an extended stay as you recover. We are well-versed with the bureaucratic needs of oxygen supply, both in your home country with your local medical provider or your insurers and in your destination country, where you are currently recovering as best you can and can take care of all the paperwork. 

Many of our employees are multilingual, so you will almost always be able to express yourself clearly, with no fears of mistranslations interfering with your plans – and they can pass on your requirements to our local supplier in their own language in turn, with the same peace of mind. Finally, we can offer backup and emergency support should anything go astray during the above processes and your recovery – for example, being asked to move accommodations because your booking is up and the room is needed – or if any issues arise that must be resolved quickly. 

There is a 24-7 telephone number that you will be given when you sign up: our operators can quickly assess your problem and brainstorm solutions, swinging into action to have you back on track as soon as possible.

In short: We bridge the gap between hospital and home—whether home is here or still miles away.

What You Need to Get Started

  • The hospital can provide you with a medical summary of your condition, including a discharge report, and you should make a point of having this before you leave as it is essential for accessing your much-needed oxygen
  • Your prescription, too, will be vital, and it should state how much oxygen you need (your flow rate), the equipment you'll be using, and how long you will need the oxygen for
  • You will have to provide an address – somewhere you'll be staying as you recuperate and become well enough to travel
  • A contact number for your supporters if you are not managing your own care, along with your authority for that supporter/ those supporters to deal with suppliers and medical personnel on your behalf
  • Travel dates if you know when you will be repatriating and especially if this will be soon

Do You Still Need Travel Insurance or an EHIC/GHIC?

Your EHIC/ GHIC may entitle you to some necessary oxygen therapy during your recovery process, but this is not guaranteed, and most private insurers will insist upon documentation before they agree to cover medical oxygen in your accommodation. OxygenWorldwide can help you prepare the right paperwork so you can claim for reimbursement or arrange ongoing care for the future.

Recovery abroad doesn't mean that you have to do it all yourself – in fact, trying to arrange these sorts of things alone is probably a good way to stress yourself out and possibly cause a relapse! You may have left the hospital with its hands-on care and attentive nurses, but you are also not entirely on your own. 

With OxygenWorldwide, you can be sure that the oxygen support you need to recover safely and with dignity is all arranged for you, and will arrive on time, in the quantities promised so you can devote all your time and attention to getting better, so you can get yourself back home and into familiar surroundings. Let us know your discharge plans as soon you know them yourself, and we'll take care of the oxygen you need – wherever you are in the world.

by nick

Booking a Hotel When You Use Medical Oxygen

What to Ask Before Booking a Hotel When You Use Medical Oxygen

If you're planning a trip – whether for business, leisure or to visit family – one of the first things you'll be doing is booking your accommodation. This is a pretty simple process, unless you are one of the not insignificant number of people who rely on medical oxygen to stay in good health. 

Holidaying while unwell is hard enough, trying to organise everything from understanding the many complicated regulations to actually traveling with oxygen and hotel stays can be truly daunting, especially if you haven't done it before. 

But have no fear! 

This article has plenty of accommodation tips for oxygen users that will talk you through how to go about everything from booking a hotel with medical oxygen to taking into account the altitude and humidity of your destination country when planning your itinerary.

You will most likely not be able to simply make your booking without consulting the hotel or accommodation manager in some way, so plan your accommodation as soon as you decide on your destination city. Once you are in contact with someone, however, you will be able to ascertain whether the accommodation can support your needs so you can enjoy a safe, comfortable and stress-free stay. 

Read on to discover our clear checklist that can help you to research hotels before you contact them – and you'll also learn how OxygenWorldwide can help you with oxygen sourcing and delivery in your destination country.

Why Accommodation Matters for Oxygen Users

When you are away from home, you will need somewhere that is a sanctuary for you, a private place where you can access and use your oxygen freely as well as rest up and enjoy some downtime without anyone else around. But as well as a door you can lock on the inside and a comfy bed, you will need the space, power and ventilation access that your oxygen equipment demands, particularly specific items like having a power point close to the bed so you can use your oxygen while you are resting or napping. 

If you book a hotel and assume – or worse, simply hope – that they will be able to meet your needs without too much bother, you could find yourself suffering from equipment issues, delays with accessing your treatments, and with unnecessary stress shortening your breath even more than usual.

Therefore, avoid the above with these…

Key Questions to Ask Before You Book

Q: Can my oxygen equipment be delivered before my arrival? Will you store it securely until I check-in?

Q: May I have a room on the ground floor, or, if not, a room with access to a lift, so that I can get my bulky equipment in and out without too much stress or bother?

Q: Please make sure my room has a power supply close to the bed so I can use my portable oxygen concentrator or recharge my device's batteries.

Q: Please ensure there is a properly working fridge in my room so I can keep my medication at a stable, low temperature.

Q: Do you have air-conditioning and/ or is the room very well ventilated? This is especially important when it is hot outside as this can exacerbate my condition.

Q: Please ensure that the staff on duty are aware that my oxygen and equipment will be delivered during the relevant window. And will you require any advance warning from my supplier that they are on their way?

Q: Is there any smoking in or near my room? With pure oxygen around, I would prefer not to be in the proximity of fire – and I'm sure you'd prefer that too, in the long run!

Q: Will I have enough space in my room to store spare cylinders and portable equipment including oxygen tanks, carriage trolleys, POCs and their chargers, as well as spare consumables like tubing and cannulas?

Bear in mind, most hotels are more than happy to help you out – but they do need to know your needs in advance.

What to Pack (or Have Delivered) for Your Stay

Bring along

  • The above-mentioned consumables like tubing, connectors and nasal cannulas
  • Your charger and spare batteries
  • An extension cord (just in case!)
  • A hard copy of your prescription and your medically recommended oxygen plan
  • The OxygenWorldwide 24/7 Emergency number
  • Enough oxygen to last the duration of our holiday (this one is usually a 'deliver' rather than a 'pack')

Make sure you check and confirm check-in times and your delivery window so you don't take a chance on missing your delivery.

How OxygenWorldwide Supports Hotel and Rental Deliveries

OxygenWorldwide has long been in the business of helping oxygen users get their oxygen, no matter where they are – we have contacts in many countries (with some exceptions, so do check before you make your plans!) and can speak to both our network of suppliers and you in your native languages so the risk of misunderstandings is minimised. Here's how we can help you:

  • Your oxygen delivered promptly to your accommodation for you. Often, it can be ready and waiting for you when you arrive
  • We will work with the hotel reception staff or hosts to confirm the access and timing of your oxygen delivery
  • We can advise you on the best equipment to fit into your holiday room and your medical needs
  • We can offer 24-7 support in case of sudden changes of plan that upset your planned treatments: such as the need to relocate, or even having to check out of your room earlier than you'd realised

Don't Forget Alternative Stays: Villas, Rental apartments, Cruises

For villas and Airbnbs, you should usually communicate directly with the proprietor or host as they will be able to give you the go-ahead or let you know about any potential problems with the room. OxygenWorldwide can help you out here, by contacting the host on your behalf and explaining the exact needs for oxygen therapy users.

For some cruises, OxygenWorldwide can sometimes arrange oxygen delivery to the port or even right to your cabin, depending on the cruise line, the busy-ness at the time of the delivery, and even the temperament of the delivery person!

Make sure you book your oxygen from a supplier well versed with the medical side of the industry. Once again, OxygenWorldwide might be able to advise you using a shortlist of trusted suppliers.

In short, if you know the right questions to ask and ask them clearly, you will be able to travel with peace of mind and the security of knowing that your medical needs will be met as you focus on exploring your destination. Booking a hotel, even with oxygen needs, doesn't have to be very complicated and – if you ask those right questions – you might even find it easier than you expect!

Your hotel accommodation will, with forethought and the assistance of OxygenWorldwide, become a place of rest and respite, not one of worry and anxiety. If this sounds good to you, let us know your destination and we'll coordinate your oxygen delivery direct to your door, whether that door is your grandpa's, a hotel's or a holiday home.

by nick

What to Expect When You Start Using Oxygen: A Traveler’s Guide

Health issues are a part of life, and receiving a sudden diagnosis can dramatically change your plans for the future, whether short-term or more permanently. Being told that you need medical oxygen can feel quite overwhelming, especially if you have been an active person or a frequent traveller. You might even be wondering about what your future holds:

  • Can I travel if I just started oxygen therapy? 
  • Do I have to stay close to home from now on? 
  • Will I be able to have any fun at all? 

The good news is that yes, you will be able to have fun; you certainly don't have to stay at home all the time, and yes, you can still travel, even if you are still new to the world of oxygen therapy. With the right support and planning, you should be able to live as full and satisfying a life as you did before your illness took hold. This first-time oxygen user travel guide is designed to help those who are looking to combine starting oxygen therapy and travel – it is packed with information that can help you continue living your best life, no matter what.

The first thing to remember is that oxygen therapy is not a burden – it is a freedom that allows you to live more fully, more happily and more comfortably. Even if you're planning a holiday, a family visit or just a quick weekend away. Let's have a look.

Many people travel confidently with oxygen—this is your starting point.

What It Means to Start Using Oxygen Therapy

Oxygen therapy helps you in a number of ways. It can improve your energy levels, boost your sleep quality, and even enhance your brain function by ensuring that your blood oxygen levels are kept at a safe level.

You might use oxygen on any number of occasions – this will be unique to your needs and your condition:

  • You might need oxygen only when you exert yourself: walking, climbing stairs, etc
  • You might need oxygen therapy at nighttime, while you sleep
  • Or you might need oxygen therapy continuously throughout the day

How much oxygen you require and when you should use your oxygen supply device will be ascertained by your medical team, and your required flow-rate will be detailed on your written prescription.

First Time Travellers' Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will I still be able to go on holiday and have fun?

A: Yes! There will be more steps to your planning and you will have to have back-up plans and take more care over setting your itinerary, but otherwise you will absolutely be able to get away from home and have a great time!

Q: Can I take my oxygen therapy device with me?

A: It depends on what equipment you have and where you are travelling to. If you use a portable oxygen concentrator (POC), the odds are higher that you will be able to take it with you, even on a plane. Do note, however, that only certain models of POC are allowed on planes, so you may have to switch to an unfamiliar model for the duration of your flight and/ or stay away from home. Cylinders can sometimes be transported, but they will usually have to be completely empty and in the checked luggage hold. LOX usually cannot go on a plane for safety reasons.

But do put your mind at ease: with the help of OxygenWorldwide, you can arrange for your oxygen supply to be waiting for you at the holiday destination, along with the equipment of your choice, so that you can make the most of your time away.

Q: Will I need a prescription abroad?

A: Expect this answer to be yes – it is far better to have paperwork that proves unnecessary than to need it and not have it at hand, especially when dealing with foreign bureaucracy. Your prescription should be a paper version of an official prescription, and you might want to also carry a medical letter stating your diagnosis and the rationale for your flow rate and treatment; as well as a fit-to-fly letter stating while that your condition requires oxygen, it is not serious enough to limit your enjoyment and fitness to be on holiday.

Q: I always love to travel spontaneously – can I still do this?

A: It really does depend on your specific needs, but the short answer is that it is possible that you can take spur-of-the-moment trips – albeit with the need for some hasty scrabbling to get your oxygen supply sorted out!

Equipment Basics for New Users

Above, we've touched upon some of the types of equipment: here's a more detailed explanation of each and for which purpose it is best suited.

  • POC – portable oxygen concentrators take the air and filter out the nitrogen, leaving you with nearly pure oxygen. They are ideal for active people on day trips and excursions, and are the only form of oxygen therapy that can be used on board a plane
  • Oxygen Cylinders – these can be on a wheeled frame for portable use, or kept in one place – your hotel room, for example – and they are for those with short-to-medium term needs
  • Liquid Oxygen or LOX – this is highly compact and very high capacity, but cannot be taken on flights because of the sheer quantity of gaseous oxygen that a relatively small amount of LOX can produce. LOX is ideal for cruises or longer stays in hotels or boarding houses

Your medical professionals will help you work out which equipment best meets your needs, so you will always be in the best possible health.

NB: When travelling always remember to bring along extra cannulas and tubing; your prescription (as stated above), backup batters for your POC or other oxygen device, if needed; and a copy of your personalised oxygen settings and your treatment schedule.

For more information see our Comparative Guide to Oxygen equipment

Emotional Adjustments and a (New) Travel Mindset

You know you need oxygen to be at your best. But it's heavy and awkward, and people sometimes stare which can make you feel awkward and self-conscious. This is quite normal and do try to walk through it: soon you will be able to accept the surprised looks and persuade yourself that it is their staring that is rude, not your need for medical intervention! 

Use discreet disguising covers and bags to hide the reality of your oxygen if that makes you feel more comfortable, and focus on the freedom and good health that your oxygen brings to you, rather than what messages others might be picking up from your display of medical necessity. 

You will have to acknowledge your condition, not by putting your plans on hold or stopping yourself from going to places you've always longed to, but by planning plenty of stops along the way, packing as lightly as you can, and allowing extra time at each step of the way while you get used to your new normal.

How OxygenWorldwide Can Help New Oxygen Users to Travel with Confidence 

OxygenWorldwide is an oxygen supply broker, in a way, with links with oxygen suppliers in many countries all over the world. Our ties are especially strong in some European countries, but we can coordinate with local suppliers in your language and theirs to ensure a seamless and snafu-free experience. We are also well-versed in various airline and international regulations, so we can help advise you as to the rules, necessary documentation and equipment regulations before you travel, as well as being on hand to help you out while you're away. If something goes wrong, we have a 24-hour helpline on hand to put a fix into place or to advise you on what you should do next.

We've helped thousands of people travel with oxygen. And we're ready to help you, too

Try to think of your new way of life as being the beginning of a new chapter, rather than the end of everything you've known so far. You will still be doing everything that you were doing before (to a certain extent!), just while being a little more mindful of your own safety and with a little support to help you over any rough patches. Start out by taking a short trip, not too far from home. Learn to rely on those who understand your needs, and give yourself space and time to adapt to this new way of life. And don't forget to call us: get in touch and we'll help you take your very first trip with oxygen—confidently.

by nick

Travel With Oxygen When You Have Multiple Stops or Layovers

How to Travel With Oxygen When You Have Multiple Stops or Layovers

Traveling can be stressful if you don't do a lot of it. Traveling while needing medical oxygen therapy can be more so. Traveling while needing medical oxygen and planning a voyage packed with multiple stops, layovers and transfers and even overnight connections can be a very daunting prospect indeed. But traveling with oxygen across multiple countries doesn't have to be any more stressful than planning a regular journey, especially if you make use of resources like those offered by OxygenWorldwide who can help travellers plan oxygen support for layovers and transfers while they are away from home. 

International oxygen coordination can be subject to stringent legislation and be strictly enforced, but it is by no means impossible, and you will find that with the right planning, multiple stops, layovers and overnight connections are more manageable than you might expect. Let's have a look at how even the most complex timetable can be oxygen-supported – with the right partner and planning.

Understanding the Challenges of Multi-Stop Travel with Oxygen

The first way to manage your oxygen supply while traveling to multiple locations is to fully understand all the ins and outs: the differing regulations in the various countries, whether you can travel with your preferred oxygen equipment (LOX tanks, cylinder, or POC or portable oxygen concentrator). Many of the logistics of oxygen supply vary from country to country, and ignorance of the rules is rarely accepted as an excuse for bringing along the wrong equipment or quantities. 

Airlines, with the ever-present risk of acts of terrorism, these days only allow the use of selected models of POC, and cylinders, if permitted to be transported at all, must be empty and stored in the hold. Different rules apply on land-based travel and also while on cruises. Whenever you will be stopping out, you will have to make sure that you can charge your equipment, and that there is a power supply close to the bed if you use oxygen overnight.  Airports tend not to supply oxygen for passengers' use during layovers or airport stays, so you will have to arrange your own supply, and ensure that you will be able to access it when you need it. 

And finally, traveling with oxygen across multiple countries requires a fair amount of paperwork that must be in order. This can include an up-to-date prescription, a medical letter stating your condition and the necessity for oxygen therapy, along with details of your flow rate and the usual equipment you use, and even a 'fit-to-travel' note, stating that while you need the oxygen, you are unlikely to fall ill or relapse while abroad. If you are traveling in Europe, you should take an EHIC or GHIC card along with you – this is a reciprocal agreement so your home country or private insurance will cover your medical expenses should you need treatment while away just as they would at home.

That all sounds like a lot, but it is important to understand the full situation as soon in the planning process as you can – that way you have plenty of time to access the necessary paperwork, book accommodation and arrange for the right amount of oxygen and the correct equipment to be delivered in a timely manner, so that when you start your travels, everything runs smoothly.

What to Plan Before You Book Your Trip

  • Make a list of every stop on your way (include, for example, potentially having to wait at the airport, bus stop or train station before you even get started – having to wait a couple of hours moves up your oxygen needs schedule by that time). Pay especial attention to any stops or layovers of three hours or more
  • Confirm the availability of oxygen that you've previously booked with OxygenWorldwide, making sure the accommodation manager as well as the oxygen supplier knows when you'll be arriving and when the oxygen should be delivered. Don't forget those stops where you'll only be overnighting, even if you will be arriving late and leaving early
  • Check with your doctor if your flow rate is right for the amount of travel you'll be doing and the altitude and climate of your destinations – it may need to be adjusted
  • Ensure that your prescription will last for the entirety of the full itinerary. Trying to get a new one from either a foreign doctor or hospital, or getting your surgery to deliver it out of the country can be a time-consuming and stressful nightmare and is best avoided if at all possible
  • And finally, have a backup plan. Have a backup plan to your backup plan! This means have spare tubing and batteries on hand, carry a spare charger if you can, and ensure that you have hard copies of instruction manuals and how-tos for your oxygen equipment and even your travel plans. If you can, make sure that someone knows where you are at all times, and when you are expected to arrive at the next destination, so the alarm can be raised promptly, if it needs to be

Equipment Options for Multi-Stop Trips

We touched on the various types of equipment above, but here is a bit more information about them:

POCs are ideal for flights and mobility while between connections or while exploring your destination countries' landmarks. They must be FAA-approved (not all models are) and you should have extra batteries with you that are kept charged and ready to go.

You can also arrange for cylinders of oxygen or LOX to be delivered to your destinations. LOX is liquid oxygen which 'boils off' into a huge quantity of gaseous oxygen, making a compact and efficient way of transporting a lot of oxygen – ideal if you have a high flow rate or need oxygen very frequently. But this is also a danger on flights, where the altitude can affect the compressibility of the fluid, and is usually banned from flights. Regular cylinders can be transported, but they must be empty and stored in the cargo hold, so you will have to organise for them to be filled soon after your arrival at your destination.

A hybrid of all two/three of these, especially POCs on flights and while traveling with LOX or cylinder oxygen waiting for you at your destination is an ideal scenario for traveling in Europe, for cruises and in the event that you need to be repatriated after falling ill while abroad.

How OxygenWorldwide Supports Complex Travel Itineraries

OxygenWorldwide has a wide network of trusted partners who understand the needs of our clients and are also completely au fait with the local regulations of oxygen storage and supply. Our experts can work with our local partners to meet your needs in the most effective and legally compliant manner, managing all the complexities so you don't have to. 

Our experts are multilingual and so can provide a useful bridge between you and foreign suppliers, so that everyone knows and understands what is happening. We can also liaise with medical teams and insurers as well as with temporary carers to streamline planning and make sure that no aspect of your travel slips through the cracks. 

And finally, we are available to troubleshoot and ease any urgent issues that arise during transit. (A small disclaimer: this service is only available in supported regions, but we will advise you of this when you provide us with your itinerary.)

What to Do During Long Layovers or Transfers

It is fine to be a little bit selfish if you know that exerting yourself will result in your being unwell. Here's how to practice self-care while on a long layover:

  • Find a quiet, airy space to rest, preferably with a comfortable seat
  • Make sure you have enough battery power for 150% of the time of the expected wait. (So, if you are waiting for two hours, make sure you have three hours' worth of battery power)
  • Keep your POC with you – don't check it in or allow it to be separated from your carry-on
  • Be aware of your health and if your breathing worsens, alert staff early rather than leaving it until you are almost in medical crisis
  • And finally, make sure all your equipment is clearly labelled with your name and contact information. Make sure every detachable piece has your name on it: from the nose cannula to the tubing to the tanks – that way there is no way there can be any doubt as to which piece of equipment is yours, or that it all belongs together should something untoward occur

So you can see that, yes, multi-destination traveling while needing medical oxygen can be daunting – but it doesn't have to be. These sorts of trips need more planning and careful logistical input, but they are absolutely possible. With the right equipment, documentation and the assistance of OxygenWorldwide you can travel confidently, traversing borders, connections and time zones. 

Share your proposed itinerary with us and we'll coordinate your oxygen delivery at every step of the way.

by nick

Summer Travel Tips for Oxygen Users

Staying Cool: Summer Travel Tips for Oxygen Users

Summer is a wonderful time of year, especially when it's not raining. Being able to leave the house without fretting about jackets or umbrellas is delightfully freeing. But summer is not without its challenges, especially for people who rely on medical oxygen to stay in good shape. Higher than usual temperatures can affect not only your body, but also your oxygen equipment and your supply, as can sun exposure, higher than expected humidity, and a host of other summery factors that might not occur to you at first. 

Let's have a look at how you can stay cool, travel safely and enjoy your planned summer activities without being constrained by the effects of the season on your equipment. And then we'll look at how OxygenWorldwide can help you make the most of your travels without compromising your health or oxygen equipment in hot temperatures.

How Summer Heat Affects Oxygen Users

First, a disclaimer: any advice given in this article is general and generic and should not be accepted as being correct for every oxygen user in every instance. Always consult your medical team about dramatic changes in your circumstances, and when torn between advice found in this text and that given to you by your doctor, go with the latter! His or her advice will be tailored to suit your specific medical needs and oxygen levels and remember, hot weather and oxygen therapy can go well together – and it can also raise problems, so be alert to changes in your health.

When your body gets hot, you are at higher risk of dehydration – something already fairly well known. But you can also be at higher risk of oxygen desaturation, which is the medical term for when your blood oxygen drops below normal levels, which can mean that you should be upping your flowrate or using more oxygen during these times, in order to remain in good health.

Aside from these two, rather serious factors, traveling with oxygen in summer heat can also make you feel more tired and fatigued, and you might even feel short of breath – and this can happen even when your oxygen levels are acceptable.

When your equipment gets hot, it can be equally problematic: your device can overheat which can cause it to shut-down (not ideal when you perhaps need a treatment) or to perform poorly, so you don't receive the right flowrate of oxygen. 

The battery of your POC (portable oxygen concentrator) or other oxygen delivery appliance might drain faster in hotter temperatures. Make sure you know how to keep oxygen concentrators cool, before you travel anywhere. Even relatively mundane parts of the equipment, such as the tubes and attachments, can overheat and work less efficiently than might be desired. Tubes can develop kinks or lose their structural integrity in the heat, meaning that the flowrate of the oxygen can be impacted.

 

'Planning for the heat isn't just about comfort – it's about patient safety too'

Practical Summer Travel Tips for Oxygen Users

You can ensure that you stay in good health for your trip by following these guidelines, which can apply in cooler weather as well as in hot conditions:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink water often, sipping from a bottle as you travel about or chugging back a big glass of water every hour or so – whichever method works best for you is fine, the main point is to get that water inside you to keep your body ticking over nicely! While all liquid does count as 'hydration' to a certain extent, try to avoid alcohol and caffeine as these can be drying to the system.
  • Stay Out of the Mid-Day Sun: As the old song goes, 'Only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the mid-day sun,' but nobody should be venturing out at the hottest time of the day. Plan your activities for earlier in the morning, or late afternoon or even early evening, when it will be cooler.
  • When in Doubt: Choose AC: There is no need for anyone to stay hot and uncomfortable for too long these days, with superb air conditioning equipment available in hotels and even in vehicles. When making your hotel booking and reserving your hire car, mention your medical need to be able to control your temperature (and that of your oxygen!) so that your insistence upon an air-conditioned room or an upgraded vehicle will be hard to argue with.
  • Be Prepared for Heat: But you won't always be within easy reach of your air-conditioned car or hotel room, so make sure you carry something portable and cooling to manage your body temperature while you are out and about during the day. This can be a small USB or battery-powered fan, a cold compress or even a small hand towel that you've soaked in cold water (or even frozen) and then placed in a plastic bag. There are a number of similar quick and easy tricks that can help you keep yourself cool on even the hottest days.
  • Dress for the Occasion: When it comes to high temperatures, the kindest thing you can do to yourself is to dress for the weather, in lightweight clothing that wicks your sweat away, leaving you cool and dry and comfortable.
  • Protect Your Lungs and Skin: Always wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days – the UV rays can easily penetrate clouds and burn your skin, which is painful and unsightly. Also avoid very dusty areas if you can. If you must go somewhere dusty, make sure you take and wear a mask to keep your lungs as clear as possible.
  • Pulse-Oximeter, Just in Case: Carry a pulse oximeter with you on your travels. It's a quick and easy way for you to check your blood oxygen saturation when you're dealing with different conditions and climate than that which you are used to – you can make sure your stats are good, or take prompt action to restore your levels if you have a pulse oximeter with you wherever you go.

Keep Your Equipment Summer Ready

Look after your equipment when you are abroad. While it is possible to source repairs and replacements – especially if you are signed up with OxygenWorldwide and are traveling in one of the many countries with whom we have reciprocal agreements – it is always better not to subject yourself to the stress of having to arrange for this!

To this end, make sure your oxygen cylinders and POCs are stored somewhere with a cool, stable temperature. Never leave your equipment in a hot car as the temperatures inside a car can shoot up to astonishingly high levels in a surprisingly short time. Instead, find a cool, well-ventilated and shaded spot (make sure your equipment won't be in direct sunlight, if you keep it near the window of your accommodation). 

And this goes for any spare batteries too – they should be kept out of the sun and kept in a cool, dry place. Charge spare batteries and your POC overnight, storing it in a cool, dry spot to do so. As well as bringing along extra nasal cannulas and filters for your equipment, also be prepared to regularly clean and dry your equipment. Mold and bacteria can take hold in inventive and unusual ways, so try not give them the chance to get a toehold on your precious breathing apparatus.

Travelling Abroad? Let OxygenWorldwide Arrange Your Summer Oxygen

One of the first things you should do when you're planning your trip abroad is to get in touch with OxygenWorldwide. That's because we can:

'We make sure your oxygen is waiting for you, so you can focus on enjoying the sunshine.'

So you can see that while summer can be harder on your health, there is no reason to let things remain that way! With a little preparation, you can travel, relax and stay healthy even as you explore the world and step outside your comfort zone.If you need any help arranging your oxygen for your trip – you know who to call!  and we'll help you enjoy a safe, supported summer trip where you'll make memories and have the best time.

by nick

Prescription for Oxygen When Traveling

Do You Need a Prescription for Oxygen When Traveling Abroad?

If you rely on oxygen to keep you healthy and comfortable, you may not have traveled very much with your oxygen supply equipment, either because you haven't wanted to travel before now, or because you didn't always rely on medical oxygen. Whichever case suits your circumstances best, you may be wondering if you need a prescription or other medical oxygen documentation for travel abroad. In most cases, the answer is yes, so if you are ever unsure, it is best to assume that you will need a valid prescription with you at all times. But it's not as complicated as it sounds. This short oxygen travel documentation guide will detail when and where you need a prescription and also let you know how OxygenWorldwide can make the process easier for you.

Why Might You Need a Prescription When Traveling?

Oxygen is classified as a medical therapy, and access to it is often regulated. This could mean that traveling without a prescription can make your visit to a foreign destination something of a trial as you will spend a lot of time persuading local doctors and authorities of your already proven need for your medical oxygen! You will often struggle to source oxygen directly from suppliers without a prescription – assuming you want to avoid going to a doctor – as many providers will only supply to hospitals and medical facilities or to people who have a current, valid prescription on them. This is especially the case in Europe, the USA and Canada.

Offering these suppliers or medical professionals sight of your prescription reassures them that you do really need the oxygen, how much oxygen you need and when (your flow rate and duration of each treatment) and sometimes even what type of equipment you customarily use.

When You Will Definitely Need a Prescription?

There are several occasions when you will certainly need to produce a prescription. These include:

  • When arranging oxygen in advance of your visit to the destination – this can be via a local supplier or through OxygenWorldwide, but both of these entities will need to see your valid prescription before they can set to work organising your holiday oxygen
  • If you will be renting and using a portable oxygen concentrator (POC)
  • In order to clear through airport security or to take your equipment through customs without issues
  • When submitting your paperwork to the airline or cruise operator when arranging your trip

Each of these events will proceed much more smoothly if you have an up-to-date copy of your prescription and a doctors letter for oxygen use overseas.

Which Countries Require a Prescription for Oxygen?

The question do you need a prescription for oxygen when travelling is a tricky one to answer when it comes to specifics. This is because every country in the world has their own rules, and these can change with little notice. But – and bear in mind that this is a very general list, written with broad strokes and that you should always double-check with your destination country when making your travel plans – basically it is as follows:

  • Countries in Europe will definitely require a prescription for supplied oxygen
  • The USA allows you to transport an oxygen concentrator with a valid prescription – but no cylinders are allowed on planes in US airspace.
  • Pre-approval is required in Australia, Canada and the UAE (United Arab Emirates) – and documentation is vital for this pre-approval to take place

However, there is a much easier way to cut through the medical red tape involved with organising your medical oxygen and trying to memorise the myriad rules and regulations of a plethora of other countries: simply sign up with OxygenWorldwide who not only know many of the local processes and procedures, but also have strong local links with oxygen suppliers in many destination countries.

What Type of Prescription or Documentation Might Be Needed?

Medical documentation includes, along with the previously mentioned prescription which is the main piece of paperwork, a doctor's letter (this can be a pre-printed form that he or she fills in, or it can be a letter on the practice letterhead – the important thing is the doctor's signature and/ or official stamp). The letter or form should contain the following information:

  • Your name and date of birth
  • Your official diagnosis or the reason you are on oxygen therapy
  • The prescribed flow rate and your usage duration.
  • The type of device you use (if relevant)

Make sure you take a printed copy of these documents, and if you can, get a translated version if you're traveling to a non-English-speaking country.

How OxygenWorldwide Simplifies the Process

As mentioned above, OxygenWorldwide has excellent links with local suppliers in many countries who can handle the logistics of your oxygen supply, working within the rules and regulations of the country. But OxygenWorldwide can also put your mind at ease when it comes to what you will need to satisfy the needs of your destination country, and we can advise on translation services, documentation needs and how-tos, and also offer best practice tips so you can avoid delays when setting off on your holiday. We've been in the business of getting oxygen users all around the world and back for a long time, so we are experts in managing the paperwork for multi-country travel, cruises, and even medical returns for those who fall sick while abroad and need oxygen for the trip back home.

The short answer, as mentioned above, is that yes, you will most likely need a prescription when you travel abroad with medical oxygen. But you can take heart knowing that you are not alone in planning and executing your trip. Think of that valid prescription much as you do your passport: it's just part of the planning process so you can enjoy your visit knowing that your supply of oxygen will be safe and reliable while you are away. OxygenWorldwide is your invisible companion on your travels, quietly removing the complexity of international oxygen supply logistics before you are even aware they exist and effortlessly ensuring you and your oxygen get to the right place at the right time.

Are you ready to travel? Get cracking on the paperwork – and we'll take care of the rest for you! Send us your travel plans and we'll take it from there, guiding you through the ins and outs of what is needed for your particular destination. This might be your first trip abroad with medical oxygen – but with OxygenWorldwide's help it is unlikely to be your last!

by nick

What to Do if Your Oxygen Equipment Fails While You Are Abroad

What to Do if Your Oxygen Equipment Fails While You Are Abroad

If you rely on medical oxygen you may be put off from the idea of vacationing abroad because of the fear of oxygen equipment failure while travelling. What on earth will you do should your equipment malfunction while you're in a country where you don't speak the language, you aren't signed up with a medical team and you have no idea where replacement kit or repairs might be sourced? This can seem very scary indeed, but with a little forethought and planning you can get through an equipment failure with nothing more than a little time invested. 

If you sign up with us you will have access to the OxygenWorldwide emergency service (a multilingual 24/7 hotline) whose sole purpose is to quickly help and succour oxygen users on their holidays in supported countries – and that alone will give you great peace of mind from the start of your holiday planning! Read on for some clear and practical points on what to do if oxygen concentrator stops working abroad – a rare happenstance, but something it is best to be prepared for, if possible.

First Steps: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

It can be all too easy to panic when equipment that we rely on seems to breakdown, but try to keep your head and go over all the obvious and easy fixes first: does your equipment need a new battery, to be charged or has the plug shifted in its socket? Is the tubing perhaps kinked or blocked? If in doubt the IT expert's fix can sometimes work – turn it off and back on again! Sometimes (depending on the equipment, of course) this can be enough to smooth out glitches and allow things to reset themselves.

In the meantime, switch to your backup oxygen, if you have cylinders or a second POC (portable oxygen concentrator) on-hand. And keep an eye on your blood oxygen levels using a pulse oximeter. It is always useful to have one of these gadgets with you at all times, as it can reassure you when in certain stressful conditions, which can sometimes make patients believe they're not getting the oxygen they need.

Contact Local Emergency Services (If Necessary)

If you are managing your breathing well without your equipment, you can skip this next step, but if you are in need, contact local emergency services immediately. In Europe, the equivalent of 999 and 911 is 112, and you will initially be answered in the language of the country. But, if you don't speak that language, continue to hold on and they will transfer you fairly quickly to someone who speaks English, who will then be able to sort you out.

Once you're through to a medical helpline, quickly and concisely explain the problem, letting them know that you are an oxygen user whose equipment has failed (or whose oxygen has run out, or whatever the precise problem is). Before you make the call, ensure that you have your medical documentation to hand, including your EHIC/GHIC information. Handing this over as soon as possible will help the emergency services get you the help you need promptly.

If you are in a hotel or other staffed accommodation, you can ask an employee to help you out. They can arrange for a paramedic or ambulance to come for you, or let you know a different, local way to find assistance.

If You're an OxygenWorldwide Customer: Call Us Immediately

If you're one of our existing customers, you will have been given the OxygenWorldwide Oxygen emergency service phone number. Now is the time to use it! As well as 24/7 multilingual support for all our current customers, we can also arrange replacement equipment, coordinate with local suppliers to get you what you need, when you need it, and even organise an emergency refill or a cylinder swap-out with surprisingly little notice. NB: do be aware that as fast as we are, our services do take a bit of time, so get in touch with us as soon as you realise there is a problem, even if you have enough oxygen or functionality for a little while.

We will also liaise directly with your accommodation to ensure smooth and efficient delivery for you.

Our emergency line is staffed by real people—ready to help, fast.

What to Do When You're Not Covered by Emergency Support

Please do note that while OxygenWorldwide does have wide and far-ranging reach, there are some regions that are unsupported. These include some parts of the USA and Ibiza among others. And this means that OxygenWorldwide may not be able to intervene or that our assistance might not be as speedy as might be hoped. However! We can still help you to the best of our abilities and not inconsiderable experience. We can:

  • Provide guidance and advice over the phone
  • Help you to contact local suppliers and
  • Support you with future travel plans in which we can implement better backup plans for you

How to Prevent Equipment Failures While Travelling

First things first – treat the trip like a health and safety risk assessment! What will you need and when? What obstacles are there to achieving all you want to? How can you minimise or even remove these problems? And so on. 

You can give yourself the best chances on your trip by only using equipment provided by trusted suppliers, carrying extras of both oxygen and consumables like filters, cannulas and extra tubing, ensuring that all your batteries are full charged – and bringing extras that are also all fully charged! 

Maintain your oxygen device painstakingly, keeping it clean and dry and packing it with care to prevent breakage or damage. If you're carrying a POC, make sure you test it carefully before your trip, and also make sure that you know how to strip it down and put it back together. And finally, store your cylinders and any LOX (liquid oxygen) firmly closed and in an upright position to prevent spills and accidental leakage.

Why OxygenWorldwide Means Support – Not Just Supply

We are so much more than a supply organisation. We don't only deliver oxygen, but we actively help to manage it whenever we can. We have especially strong working ties in Spain, Portugal and France as well as other partner regions. Islands, and some more niche destinations are often not included, so make sure you mention your specific destination when you are booking your flight or cruise and we will let you know what support we can offer you. 

Should you be traveling to, for example, Spain, or one of the countries mentioned above, we can provide you with a speedy service, speaking your language, understanding your equipment and how it works, and can act really quickly to get you what you need. 

We specialise in helping customers traveling with chronic conditions who might have limited mobility or complex itineraries to legislate for (or both!), so we really can find a solution for almost every medical oxygen problem.

You're Never Alone with Right Team on Your Side

So you can see, equipment issues don't have to mean the end or ruin of your trip, especially if you are an OxygenWorldwide customer. We aren't just a provider for you, we're your partner in your travel, so if you're planning a trip, make sure your oxygen needs are supported too!

Contact us today to let us help you organise your travel oxygen – and we'll have your back if anything goes wrong along the way!

by nick

Oxygen For Short Trips

Oxygen For Short Trips: What You Need for a Weekend Away

If you are a long-term oxygen user, you may already be acquainted with the extra steps required when going on holiday. But you might think that all that extra fuss – obtaining medical certificates, checking international regulations, the research needed before you pick a destination, etc – is only worthwhile if you are going to be away for long periods of time, two weeks or more. But portable oxygen for short travel is perfectly possible to arrange, and it can be much easier to organise than you expect, allowing you to enjoy a weekend away just as much as a longer holiday. Let's have a look at what you really need for a short break, what you can skip, and, generally, how to make your short trip run smoothly and safely with the oxygen you need to be comfortable.

Is It Worth Arranging Oxygen for Just a Few Days?

You might feel as though you should try to 'make do' and bring along your own supply of oxygen, be it a portable oxygen concentrator (POC), a full cylinder, or even your liquid oxygen (LOX) set up – but these can be bulky and heavy and simultaneously delicate, easy to break, and notoriously difficult to repair and expensive to replace… But arranging for supplementary oxygen to be brought to your short break destination is not only sensible, it is positively recommended. This way, you won't have to worry about transporting all the oxygen and equipment that you will need, just enough for your travels. 

Having said that, always overestimate this to allow for delays and unexpected complications, so bring anywhere from 50% to 100% more than you will need during transit. (That is to say, if the travel time is two hours, make sure you have enough oxygen to be comfortable for three to four hours.) There are several reasons for arranging to good supply of oxygen to be waiting for you:

  • You will be able to avoid limiting your activities or perhaps skipping a treatment. If you are wary of 'over-using' oxygen, you might try to use less than you need, which can then impact upon your health and your enjoyment of the short trip. Knowing that you have a good supply will mean that you can use as much oxygen as you need, without fear of running short.
  • You will be more relaxed if your oxygen is arranged in advance. Having that peace of mind is a good driver for you enjoying your break away from home, and frees up your mind to concentrate on exploring your holiday destination and otherwise making the most of the trip.
  • Even the shortest of visits deserve full support and can help to ensure that any snafus are sorted without causing you medical distress or worry. OxygenWorldwide can help your weekend travel with medical oxygen go smoothly, taking a lot of the stress and emotional load off your shoulders by arranging destination-side oxygen, even for just a day or two, as you need it.

What Type of Oxygen is Best for a Weekend Trip?

We touched on the various pieces of medical oxygen equipment above: let's have a closer look at these now.

Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs)

What it does – POCs work by filtering the natural atmosphere, reducing the mix from 20% oxygen and 80% nitrogen by reducing the nitrogen levels and providing a flow of pure, or nearly pure oxygen to the user. The advantages of this are that it doesn't require the use of provided oxygen, they are easily portable, and not too bulky.

Recommended for: if you will be flying, you will almost certainly need to switch to a POC for the flight (do check as there are a limited number of models accepted by the FAA). Also useful for day trips and short excursions as well as for use on buses and trains. Perfect if you are self-sufficient and fairly mobile.

Pro-Tip: remember that your POC needs charged batteries to operate effectively. Carry spare batteries and get into the habit of charging them as soon as possible when you change depleted ones for those that are fully charged. If you're going to be out and about for a whole long day, remember to take your spare batteries with you.

Oxygen Cylinders

What it does – Large, bulky and heavy, these cylindrical containers hold compressed oxygen that is accessed via a regulator and a mask. These devices can deliver a higher flowrate than a POC, and are often used when medical oxygen is required overnight.

Recommended for: longer term stays or if you will be out and about with a POC, returning to use the cylinder when needed. They are perfect if your trip away is to be based in one place, so it can be set up and left until it needs to be replaced or refilled. There is much less to carry if you use an oxygen cylinder, but you will need to source a local supplier at your destination.

Liquid Oxygen (LOX)

What it does – Liquid oxygen is exactly what it sounds like. As the liquid boils off (don't worry, this happens at relatively low temperatures!) into gas it expands massively, so you get a lot more oxygen for the volume and weight of the holding tank.

Recommended for: Use in-country. LOX is so very compressed that it is banned from all flights, and its carriage across borders can be tightly controlled. But if you need high-flow rates at night-time and occasionally throughout the day, LOX is a good solution because a little goes a long way.

OxygenWorldwide can help you with sourcing a lot of this equipment and also with arranging for oxygen and/ or equipment to be delivered to your holiday destination. However, we cannot help you decide which equipment to use that will best suit your medical condition and your required flow-rate – that's one for your medical team!

Traveling with oxygen for short trips, as for long, does require some legwork on your behalf and part of that will be ascertaining your desired flow rate, the best equipment for your needs, and the rules and regulations of transporting the latter to and from your destination country – after you've done that, OxygenWorldwide can spring into action to take care of the rest.

Packing Checklist for a Short (Oxygen-Supported) Trip: Key Things to Remember

  • Your POC or oxygen delivery device, complete with all its accessories
  • Power cords, adaptors (suitable for the destination country, if necessary), chargers
  • Spare cannulas and tubing (better to have it and not need it than the alternative!)
  • Medical paperwork: fit-to-travel certification, oxygen prescription, medical summary
  • Pulse oximeter so you can keep an eye on your stats. This is not compulsory, but it can be very useful
  • Contact information for OxygenWorldwide and/or the local oxygen supplier
  • Your EHIC/GHIC card, if you are traveling in Europe

Choose the Right Destination for your Weekend Break

Obviously, your medical condition will preclude certain destinations even with good access to medical oxygen – very high altitudes, for example, are probably never going to be much fun for you, even for a short stay. Even moderately high altitudes can be problematic, so do check with your doctor before committing to go. Instead, aim for easy-to-reach destinations that you can get to in a few hours in the car or on the train – even short-hop flights are good choices. Choose flat cities, coastal areas, and places that have accessible centres (walkable, not too steep, wheelchair friendly (this usually means gentle slopes, which are easier for tired lungs when walking). When booking your accommodation, make sure that the room is easily accessible and has a good power supply, including one close to the bed if you use oxygen overnight.

How OxygenWorldwide Can help – Even for Short Stays

OxygenWorldwide coordinates with local suppliers to deliver your oxygen shortly before you arrive, so it is ready and waiting for you on arrival. We can deliver your supplies to hotels, holiday rentals, guest houses and even to your friends' or relatives' homes if you are visiting and stopping with them for a night or two. 

Among the services offered, we can arrange for cylinder refills and device drop-offs, even if you're only staying a couple of nights and are using the stay as a 'refuelling station' for your oxygen. And we offer multilingual support and communicate clearly with you throughout the process so you are never stressed, wondering if your oxygen supply is taken care of or not.

You focus on the trip—we'll make sure your oxygen is ready and waiting when you arrive!

To conclude, with a bit of planning and some help from OxygenWorldwide, your need for oxygen doesn't have to hold you back from short breaks, spontaneous getaways or weekends visiting loved friends or family members. The key, as always, is preparation and good support – and OxygenWorldwide is here, ready and waiting to make even the shortest trips run smoothly. Let us know your travel plans – and we'll take care of the oxygen side of things, so you can enjoy the break from your daily round.

by nick