Tips and Tricks for Camping with Sleep Apnea

Thinking about going on a summer camping trip? Spending time in the great outdoors is an awesome way to break out of the house and disconnect from the fast-pace of everyday life. However, before you book your campsite or fill up the family RV, you might wonder, “How will I manage my sleep apnea while I’m gone?” Don’t worry. There are some easy tips and tricks you can use to sleep safely and soundly even when you’re roughing it.

If Possible, Leave Your CPAP at Home

This advice might seem a little shocking, but there is logic behind it. CPAP machines tend to be bulky and difficult to maneuver and transport. Plus, you will have to find a way to power it once you arrive at your campsite. Some sites may have power outlets, but in other cases, you might have to go to the trouble of sourcing and bringing a generator. You could invest in a portable, battery-powered CPAP, but even then, you might find it challenging to keep the machine adequately clean and operational, depending upon the duration of your trip.

Use a CPAP Alternative

Of course, you should not completely abandon your sleep apnea treatment for your entire trip. Doing so may ruin your getaway by robbing you of the rest you are likely hoping for. Plus, you might end up snoring loudly enough to disturb your fellow campers, or bears.

A CPAP alternative, such as a custom-fit oral appliance, may be exactly what you need. Oral appliances work by gently repositioning the jaw to facilitate easier breathing. They are small, easy to clean, and require no electricity. Plus, they are so effective that you might decide to abandon your CPAP altogether, even after you get home from your trip. A local sleep medicine professional who specializes in oral appliance therapy will be able to help you determine if this type of treatment is the right fit for your circumstances.

Pack for Comfort

What — and how much — you pack will depend on the specifics of your camping trip. If you are going on an overnight backpacking adventure, you might only have room for a small travel pillow and your sleeping bag. If you are “glamping,” on the other hand, you may have enough space to bring along your favorite pillow, lavender spray, white noise machine, and other items that contribute to a sound night’s sleep.

Regardless of the nature of your camping trip, you should bring:

• Supplies you need to keep your sleep apnea appliance clean
• Earplugs
• Enough clothing or blankets to keep you warm
• Any medications that you take regularly

Are you ready to embark on a summer camping adventure? Use the guidance provided to sleep soundly so that you are a happy camper during and after your time away!

About the Author

Dr. Kenneth Mogell, a board-certified specialist in sleep medicine with over 10 years of experience treating sleep breathing disorders is the practice’s founder and primary practitioner. The practice has three South Florida locations: Melbourne, Vero Beach, and Boca Raton. To learn more about Florida Dental Sleep Disorders and Dr. Kenneth Mogell, contact our team at 844-294-7559.