Between the Beaches and the Breathing: Oxygen Travel Tips No One Tells You
Let’s be honest: traveling with medical oxygen isn’t something most people plan for. Holidays are supposed to be about spontaneity, lazy lunches, and maybe a little sunburn—not equipment checklists and backup batteries. And yet, for thousands of travellers each year, oxygen is just part of the luggage. If that’s you, or someone you care about, welcome. You’re not alone—and yes, you absolutely can still travel well.
Here’s what many people won’t tell you. Or at least, not upfront.
Start with the destination, not the device Too many people plan their trip around their oxygen, not their joy. Don’t fall into that trap. Think first about where you want to go. What would make the effort worth it? The Algarve? Bavaria in spring? A terrace in Tuscany?
Once you know what lights you up, that’s when the logistics come in. Will the place be accessible? Is it at altitude? Will there be air conditioning? WiFi? Yes, even WiFi—because if your concentrator app stops syncing and you’re in the hills of Crete, you’ll want a plan.
This is exactly the moment where a service like OxygenWorldwide becomes more than helpful—it becomes essential. They can check local suppliers, sort your equipment in advance, and coordinate delivery. That leaves you to focus on what actually matters: where to get the best croissants in Aix, or whether the hotel pool has stairs or a ladder.
Never assume the accommodation understands “We’re fully accessible.” Those three words have created more problems than you’d believe.
Accessible to whom? A manual wheelchair? Someone with portable oxygen? A person who doesn’t mind climbing three marble steps because “the lift starts from the first floor”? Always, always ask specifics.
Here are a few things you might need to ask for:
- Is the room near reception?
- Are there any steps into the building or bathrooms?
- Is there a mini-fridge (for certain medications)?
- Can they accept oxygen equipment delivery before you arrive?
Many oxygen users find that it’s easier to call than email. That way, you can get a feel for whether the staff actually understand what you’re asking—or just want to tick a box. And once again, this is where OxygenWorldwide can help. If you’re feeling awkward about explaining your needs, let their multilingual team do the legwork. They’ve been there.
Don’t expect airport staff to be experts Even before COVID changed everything, airports were rarely easy for oxygen users. Since 2020, things have become more limited. OxygenWorldwide can’t deliver services inside airports anymore, and most commercial airlines only allow portable concentrators—no cylinders, no LOX. But here’s the part that catches people off guard: even if you’ve done everything right, airport staff might not have.
Gate agents may have the wrong note in your file. Cabin crew might not recognise your device. Security might ask questions they’re not qualified to ask. That’s why having a printed copy of your oxygen documentation—and a backup copy on your phone—isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s a necessity.
And speak up. If something doesn’t feel right, say so. You have the right to safe travel. You’ve prepared. That deserves respect.
The heat makes everything harder Hot climates mean more water loss, more fatigue, and more strain on your breathing. But heat can also affect your equipment.
Oxygen concentrators don’t love being left in a car boot while you visit a museum. Batteries drain faster in warm temperatures. And if your room’s air-con goes on the blink, you may find yourself needing a portable unit indoors.
Planning a warm-weather holiday? Here’s what savvy travellers recommend:
- Bring a backup battery even for short excursions
- Keep your nasal cannula away from sun cream or oils (some are flammable)
- Have a hotel contact who can help if your main device fails
Again, this is where OxygenWorldwide steps in. Their emergency support in places like Spain, Portugal, France and many other countries means that if something goes wrong, you’re not stuck translating “oxygen concentrator malfunction” into Catalan on Google Translate.
Multi-stop travel is absolutely doable—with help River cruises, motorhome adventures, cross-border rail trips. All still possible. But not if you try to juggle logistics in four countries on your own.
That’s where an international network really matters. If you’re using OxygenWorldwide, they’ll liaise with local suppliers in each destination. You’ll arrive to find your equipment already there—or swap it for a fresh setup at a planned handover point.
It takes planning, yes. But it can be done. And it can be joyful.
One more thing: trust your instincts If something feels off—if the hotel seems confused, or the supplier is vague, or you just have a gut feeling something’s not going to work—listen to that.
Travelling with oxygen isn’t about pushing through discomfort. It’s about making the right adjustments so you can experience the world fully, safely, and on your terms.
Sometimes that means switching hotels. Sometimes it means changing destination. Sometimes it just means making a phone call to OxygenWorldwide and saying, “I need a bit of help.”
That’s not a failure. That’s wisdom.
So what’s the takeaway? Travelling with medical oxygen isn’t just possible—it can be empowering. But it’s also full of small, unspoken lessons that only emerge once you’re on the move.
Pack light. Ask questions. Don’t apologise for your needs. And surround yourself with people (and companies) who actually get it.
As one oxygen user put it: “I didn’t want to be a traveller with oxygen. I just wanted to be a traveller. Now I am.”
Ask us for support in making your travel with medical oxygen easier.
Living Abroad with Oxygen: What Ex-pats Need to Know
Living with respiratory conditions, such as those that require the regular use of medical oxygen, can make living abroad a very tempting prospect. Long days under sunny skies, with low humidity and plenty of fresh air? Almost literally what the doctor ordered! But health conditions come along with you, and with them the need for specialist equipment, regular supplies of oxygen along with consumables like nasal cannulas and tubing, and the thought of arranging supply lines in a foreign language can be daunting, especially if you are feeling unwell already, suffering from a condition like COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), heart failure or pulmonary fibrosis.
Let's take a look at some of your options if you are a long-term resident away from your home country, and learn how OxygenWorldwide supports expats year round to ensure you have access to oxygen and can carefully look after your health so as to enjoy great quality of life.
The Realities of Using Oxygen as an Expat
If you are moving from the UK, for example, it may surprise you to realise that local health systems in your new country may not offer the same experiences – and you might also be facing different equipment, new refill scheduling and even different ways of receiving your oxygen and equipment at home.
Language barriers might arise too, which can complicate your access to appointments (and the appointments themselves, unless your new doctor speaks flawless English for you while you learn the language of your new home town), your prescriptions, and even repairs to your equipment, up to and including your power sockets in your home from which your equipment will run!
Speaking of which, living abroad with medical oxygen can also be affected by things that you have perhaps not considered: the weather and humidity can affect your oxygen use – how much you need and how frequently – and also can have an impact on oxygen loss – no cylinder will retain 100% of the oxygen in it, but the rate of loss can increase under some circumstances. Your housing setup, too, might be different and require some finessing before you are ready to settle in.
Even if you have private medical insurance (probably a must with the twin factors of living away from your home country and having a long-term medical issue) they may not cover everything you need. Make sure your specific medical needs are covered by your policy before you commit to it.
Common Situations We Help With
Of course, sometimes you might not be ill before you move abroad, but find yourself falling ill while you are already living in your dream destination. OxygenWorldwide can help you to get started with the whole process, from prescription onwards, and will soon have you receiving regular deliveries of oxygen without too much fuss or bother, even if you are still learning the language and the way the country works.
If you are settled and used to your condition, OxygenWorldwide can help you should there be a problem with your usual supply. For example, if you can't access your usual POC (portable oxygen concentrator) or LOX (liquid oxygen) system, OxygenWorldwide can source a replacement or a very similar substitute that will meet all your needs and be just as easy for you to use. OxygenWorldwide can also help if you're struggling to refill cylinders or find spare parts that help you to properly use your oxygen.
It doesn't have to be you, the expat, who requires the oxygen: if you are having visitors who do require medical oxygen, you can ask for OxygenWorldwide's help and advice on how best to cater for your guest's medical needs so they enjoy their short-term visit to your adopted country.
And finally, if you are recovering from a hospital stay, you might have been advised to use medical oxygen to aid with your recovery. OxygenWorldwide can help you by arranging for your oxygen to be in place and waiting for you on your return home from the hospital so you have a seamless and stress-free transition into your home comforts and can focus on getting well again.
What Can OxygenWorldwide Do for Expats
OxygenWorldwide offers solutions to a wide range of problems, from simple advice and guidance to organising contacts with local suppliers. We can help with:
- Equipment rental: tailored to your needs and the length of your stay
- Refill and maintenance support: for as long as you need it (only available in certain regions and countries – contact us for details)
- Multilingual support staff: so that we can help with prescription sourcing and explanations, equipment and contract setups, and troubleshooting in the events that something goes awry. With multilingual support both you and your suppliers will know exactly what is needed and what can be provided and when
- Liaison with your existing supply chain: OxygenWorldwide will work with your existing oxygen provider or your insurer to make sure that what you receive in your destination country is exactly what you need and what is covered by your policy, so you end up with the oxygen you need without incurring unexpected expenses.
- Emergency replacement: In some countries – specifically in some regions of Spain, Portugal and France – we can even help to source and provide emergency replacements for you should something go wrong with your existing equipment
What You'll Need to Get Started
First of all, you will need a valid prescription. Don't worry too much if this is in your home language, as most prescriptions are recognisable abroad and, even if they are not directly accepted, will often be enough to get you started on the process to getting one that is valid in your new home country. You'll also need a fixed address to which the oxygen and equipment can be delivered. For obvious safety reasons, delivery of oxygen to a poste restante address is simply unfeasible.
You must provide the details of for how long you'll need the support, either because you are recovering or because you are moving on, along with the details about any pre-existing arrangements or supplier contacts you have made.
And finally, you should have a contact person, someone who can be contacted and consulted, especially if you have communication issues (from being able to speak the language to struggling to speak at all).
How to Navigate Health Systems as a Foreign Resident
Travelling in Europe from the UK can be covered by the reciprocal medical arrangements between the two parties. You do have to apply for an EHIC/ GHIC card though, before you travel. Also, be aware that these agreements are designed to save your life, patch you up, and get you well enough to travel home: they are not designed to cover long-term treatment, 'health tourism', or anything outside of a genuine, short-term medical issue.
Local GPs and specialists in your new country may not have immediate access to oxygen treatments and equipment. It is best to reach out long before you need a resupply or confirmation prescription to be sure that your medical treatment can continue seamlessly when you do need to renew your prescription or sign a new equipment contract.
Medical insurance – we've mentioned this above, but it is important enough to be worth repeating! Make sure that your existing conditions are specifically included, but also make sure that you private medical insurance is acceptable to the medical centre from which you are accessing medical care. Often, private policies require pre-approval, so, to ensure you avoid an unexpected bill, make sure you have, preferably in writing, confirmation that your treatment and equipment is covered.
When in doubt, consult OxygenWorldwide's experts – we can often help you navigate complex systems and speed up delayed paperwork and access to the medical supplies you need.
To conclude, living abroad with medical oxygen does not have to be an impossibility. If your dream is to retire to a Mediterranean coastal village, you do not have to compromise: oxygen support for expats in Spain, Portugal and France is manageable with the right support and advice. So if you need long-term oxygen therapy abroad, are having an emergency, or just need some advice with planning support going forward, we are here to help you breathe easier – literally.
What Happens if Your Oxygen Equipment Fails Abroad? A Guide to Getting Help Quickly
Relying on medical oxygen is a serious matter, and the thought of your equipment failing at home is bad enough. But if you are traveling and your oxygen supply fails – well, to most oxygen users, that's just unimaginable. But accidents and incidents do happen, and knowing what to do – how to cope in the minute, how to arrange a replacement or repair and – if necessary – how to get yourself safely home and back into your usual supply chain. Anything from a power outage, an oxygen leak, or a device malfunction can be enough to stress you out – unless you have a plan B and know exactly what to do next.
This guide will help you to prepare for the unexpected and explain how OxygenWorldwide can assist you during emergencies. After all: even the best equipment can fail – what happens next depends on how quickly you respond!
Common Types of Equipment Failure
Battery failures or dead back-up batteries. This can be especially prevalent with portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) which rely on batteries for their operation. In fact, the answer to most internet queries phrased something like: what to do if oxygen concentrator stops working are answered with responses about checking the batteries, the contacts, the charging base and so on!
Power supply issues in hotels and apartments. If you need a power point close to the bed to use your equipment and you've checked to make sure there is one, only to find that it's not working or isn't the right kind for your equipment, you can feel quite stuck.
Broken tubing and cannulas can mean that you cannot use your oxygen when you need to, or that you risk losing some precious airflow and wasting your oxygen supply, which then means that you might run out before your next delivery is due.
The equipment you use can also suffer from malfunctions, such having the alarm sound for no reason or having issues regulating the flow.
Liquid oxygen is very cold and sometimes there can be problems with the oxygen freezing in the tubes causing issues with airflow, venting or both.
Immediate Steps to Take
- First of all, stay as calm as possible. Panic and stress uses more oxygen, so staying quiet and calm will help you get through the hiccup in your supply more easily
- If you have a back-up system, set it up and use it, if necessary
- If you are in your home country, contact your regular equipment and oxygen supplier
- If you are abroad and stuck, contact OxygenWorldwide right away
- If any of your symptoms worsen, seek local medical attention promptly. It is infinitely better to head off a medical crisis rather than try to deal with it once it's properly underway
How OxygenWorldWide Supports Oxygen Users in Emergency Situations
We have an especially strong presence in Europe, where we can offer same-day or next-day replacement equipment and oxygen. We can also help our customers to find local oxygen suppliers so they can keep themselves topped up. Our multi-lingual assistants can offer advice in several languages: English, Spanish, French, German and Dutch, among them so your medical oxygen emergency support will not come with the usual language barrier than can mar attempts at conversation abroad!
Our existing customers' information is saved into our secure database, so we already know your preferred equipment types, flow rates and other details. Having this information at our fingertips means that we can intervene for you much quicker in an emergency.
For new customers, we will do our best to gather the right information and help you as quickly as possible depending on availability and circumstances.
Prepare Before You Travel
Always carry spare consumables such as cannulas and tubing. These small but vital parts are so necessary to the smooth working of your oxygen supply equipment that it would be unwise to risk your only ones becoming damaged or lost.
Charge all batteries full before traveling, both those in the equipment and any spares (of which you should ideally have at least two sets waiting to be pressed into action). As soon as you run one set of batteries down, it should be a high priority to recharge them as soon as you can.
Keep your oxygen prescription and emergency contacts (your details, as well as those of your medical team, next of kin, holiday rep or tour guide etc) printed and stored with the equipment. Not only will this help you if it goes astray in transit, but it can help identify you, should you suffer a medical emergency, and guide the local medics as to how best to treat you.
Similarly keep OxgenWorldwide's contact information on hand – in your phone or wallet, somewhere easy for you to access in a hurry.
And finally, make sure that your accommodation knows that you are an oxygen user and what power points you will need and why. Impressing on them the urgency of your requirements will help them to understand how best to meet your needs.
When to Call Emergency Services
Having a chronic medical condition can make it hard for you to judge when you need immediate medical intervention. This can mean that you might leave it too to receive quick and easy treatment. If you experience any of the following symptoms, don't delay at all and call emergency services sooner rather than later: severe breathlessness, chest pain, dizziness or confusion. If your lips, toes, fingertips or fingernails turn blue, treat your condition as extremely urgent. This symptom is called cyanosis and it happens when your blood oxygen has dropped to concerning levels and it requires immediate treatment.
In conclusion, it can be worrying to be away from home and with oxygen equipment that is not behaving as it should. But you are never really alone with OxygenWorldwide, even when suffering from oxygen equipment failure abroad – although you may feel that way at first. But once you contact OxygenWorldwide, you will soon be calm and feeling supported once more. Technical issues happen all the time, but they don't need to ruin your trip or put you at risk – and with the right support, you'll soon be back on track, enjoying your time away from home with all the supplies you need for good health and comfort.
OxygenWorldwide has supported thousands of oxygen users through unexpected issues ranging from equipment failures to supply snafus, and we'll soon smooth your path once again. We will do everything possible to keep you safe and supported while you travel – and we're very good at what we do!
If you need urgent help or planning support? Contact us here. No matter if you are looking for advice and guidance, the details of an oxygen supplier or to rent equipment for your flight, we can offer friendly and excellent advice.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
- Coordinate oxygen delivery to your holiday accommodation
- Talk you through the hot-weather options for your oxygen delivery, whether that is POCs or cylinders
- Provide multilingual assistance and support if anything should go wrong – and our assistance is available 24/7
- Bonus: We are especially helpful for arranging oxygen for longer stays, cruises and even multi-country visits in the Mediterranean, arranging your supplies with the help of our long-term, very trusted supplier network.
'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.
