Comprehensive Philips DreamStation Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know

Welcome to the definitive Philips DreamStation Travel Guide, your go-to resource for unlocking the full potential of this remarkable device while on the move. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or embarking on your first journey with the Philips DreamStation, our comprehensive guide is designed to empower you with the knowledge and insights you need to ensure a comfortable and restful experience wherever your adventures take you.

DreamStation Travel Specifications

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a business trip, or an extended vacation, understanding the specific requirements and considerations for using your DreamStation away from home is crucial. This section will discuss the size and weight of the DreamStation, the environmental conditions under which it is functional as well as its power requirements.

DreamStation Size and Weight

The DreamStation is a staple in the sleep apnoea world and its classic design is familiar to most veteran CPAP machine users. It has dimensions of 297mm x 193mm x 84mm and weighs approximately 1.98kg when its 325mL humidifier tub is attached.

For those who prefer a more streamlined profile, the DreamStation comes in two halves and offers the option to shrink its total volume by detaching the humidifier tub, resulting in dimensions of 157mm x 193mm x 84mm and a total weight of about 800g, which is a significant reduction.

This flexibility ensures that the DreamStation can come with you wherever you need to go while not sacrificing the option of a humidifier for when you are not out and about.

DreamStation Environmental Conditions

The Philips DreamStation is designed to operate effectively in a variety of environmental conditions, ensuring that your therapy remains uninterrupted during your travels. Here are the specified conditions:

Operating Temperatures: +5°C to +35°C
Operating Humidity: 15% to 95% relative humidity (non-condensing)
Operating Altitude: Sea level to 7,500′ (2,286 m); air pressure range 101 kPa to 77 kPa

Whether you find yourself at sea level or at higher altitudes, the Philips DreamStation is engineered to deliver consistent and reliable CPAP therapy. It can operate within a temperature range of +5°C to +35°C and a humidity range of 15% to 95% relative humidity without condensation.

Proper storage and transportation of your Philips DreamStation are essential to maintain its performance and longevity. Here are the specified conditions:

• Storage and Transport Temperature: -20°C to +60°C
• Storage and Transport Humidity: 15% to 95% relative humidity, non-condensing

When you’re not using your Philips DreamStation during your travels, make sure to store it within a temperature range of -20°C to +60°C and a humidity range of 15% to 95% relative humidity without condensation. These guidelines will help ensure that your device remains in optimal condition and ready for use whenever you need it.

DreamStation Power Supply Unit

Understanding the power supply requirements of your Philips DreamStation is essential for ensuring uninterrupted CPAP therapy during your travels. Whether you’re using a standard AC power source or need to consider portable power options, here are the critical details regarding the power supply unit of the DreamStation:

Power Supply Unit (80W)

• AC Input Range: 100–240V, 50/60Hz, 2.0-1.0A
• DC Output: 12V, 6.67A

The Philips DreamStation’s 80W power supply unit is versatile and can adapt to a wide range of AC input voltages. For standard use, it accepts input voltages between 100V and 240V at a frequency of 50/60Hz, with a current draw ranging from 2.0A to 1.0A. The power supply delivers a stable DC output of 12V at 6.67A, ensuring that your DreamStation receives the necessary power to operate efficiently.

By understanding these power supply specifications and environmental conditions, you can confidently use your Philips DreamStation during your travels, knowing that it will provide consistent and effective CPAP therapy, regardless of your destination’s conditions.

Making the DreamStation More Portable

Travelling with your DreamStation CPAP device opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to explore new destinations while staying committed to your sleep apnea therapy. To make the most of this freedom, it’s essential to optimise the portability of your DreamStation, ensuring that it seamlessly fits into your travel lifestyle.

From compact travel cases and power options to innovative accessories and packing strategies, we’ve got you covered. Let’s embark on a transformative journey, unlocking the full potential of your DreamStation as your trusted travel companion. Discover how to make your device as portable as your sense of adventure, ensuring that nothing stands in the way of your restorative sleep while exploring the world.

Removal and Disabling of DreamStation Humidifier

As we mentioned earlier, the design of the Philips DreamStation allows for the humidifier to be separated from the core CPAP machine, effectively downsizing the device. However, you may not know how to go about doing this.

To remove the humidifier from your device, first make sure that power is disconnected from the device. Then, pick up the system with one hand carrying the therapy device and the other on the humidifier. Push in the grey humidifier button on the bottom of the humidifier side of the machine and pull the two sections apart to separate. Please make sure that you handle the humidifier tub with care. The humidifier tub can be replaced as simply as lining up the two halves and pushing them together until they snap into place.

To disable the humidifier, simply turn the machine on and turn the dial counterclockwise until the humidifier level displayed in the bottom right reaches zero and press the dial to save your change. If you have heated tubing levels on the upper right of your screen, simply turn the dial to highlight either option, press the dial in to select it and then rotate counterclockwise to change the level down. Press the dial once more to lock in your setting. Intuitively, the setting can be increased by turning the dial clockwise and pressing in the dial.

How do I prevent my mouth getting dry while using the DreamStation on the go?

The comfort and fit of your mask play a significant role in the effectiveness of your CPAP therapy. When travelling, it is important to consider mask options that are suitable for your needs.

When using battery power, the option of using a humidifier is limited as it may drain the battery quickly. In such cases, using a Heat and Moisture Exchanger (HME) mask is recommended. However, it’s important to note that ResMed’s HME masks are only compatible with the AirMini machine. Alternatively, BMC HME masks can be used with any machine, although they may not be as comfortable as regular masks.

These waterless humidifiers provide users with extra comfort by retaining the moisture and heat from the air you breathe and delivering it back into the sleep therapy breathing circuit. When you exhale, the HME filter captures heat and moisture and stores it within its tiny paper ridges. When you inhale, this heat and moisture is released to humidify the air you breathe in, offering relief from possible dryness and congestion. HME is ideal when travelling without a humidifier to environments where the humidity levels are low.

DreamStation Travel Accessories

When it comes to travelling with your DreamStation, the right accessories can make all the difference in terms of convenience and comfort. In this section, we’ll explore a selection of travel accessories specifically designed to enhance your DreamStation experience while you’re on the move. Whether you’re embarking on a cross-country road trip or jetting off to exotic destinations, these accessories will ensure that your CPAP therapy remains seamless and effective.

DreamStation Travel Bag

Investing in a dedicated travel case for your DreamStation is a smart choice. These cases are designed to protect your device during transportation and provide organised storage for your CPAP essentials. Thankfully, your DreamStation comes included with a compact and lightweight travel bag that fits snugly into your luggage or carry-on, ensuring that your device is well-protected while travelling.

Philips recommends that you use the travel bag when travelling to prevent damage to the device. It is also highly recommended that you empty the humidifier and pack it separately in the travel bag if you intend on bringing it with you.

If you need a second bag or a replacement, you can find them available for purchase separately here. 

Battery Pack for DreamStation

When it comes to travelling with a CPAP machine, the first order of business is to find a power solution that will keep your therapy uninterrupted during the night. Thankfully, CPAP battery packs, such as those made by Medistrom, are here to save the day.

What is Medistrom?

Medistrom is a well-known company that specialises in providing innovative power solutions for CPAP machines. They are known for their high-quality and reliable backup power options that ensure uninterrupted therapy for CPAP users, especially during travel or in areas with limited access to electricity.

Medistrom’s CPAP battery packs are compact, lightweight, and compatible with various CPAP machines from popular brands. These battery packs act as a backup power source, allowing users to continue their therapy even in situations where mains power is not available, such as camping, road trips, or during power outages.

Not only is the CPAP battery great for travel, it’s an ideal backup power solution for home too. Attach the Pilot-24 Lite or Pilot-12 Lite series between your CPAP and the wall and then the rest is simple… If your power goes out, due to a storm or other anomaly, the Pilot Lite will take over automatically ensuring you continue to receive restful, uninterrupted sleep therapy. When the power comes back on the Pilot Lite will automatically recharge so it’s ready the next time you need it.

Current FAA regulations allow Sleep Apnea Therapy Devices (CPAP & BiPAP Machines) and Lithium Ion Batteries (like the one in this battery pack) to be carried onboard commercial flights and are usually not counted toward your weight limits; however it is always important to check with your airline prior to travel to determine exactly what requirements they have for carrying medical equipment on board.

The Philips DreamStation is compatible with the Medistrom™ Pilot-12 Lite Battery and Backup Power Supply for 12V PAP Devices. Conveniently, the Pilot-12 Lite comes with a Philips DreamStation cable included out of the box!

DreamStation Cleaning Accessories

Maintaining your CPAP machine is crucial for the effectiveness of your CPAP therapy and this is not an aspect of your therapy that should be neglected while you are travelling. We recommend that you pack travel-sized CPAP wipes or a portable cleaning kit to ensure your DreamStation remains clean and operational during your trip. If you’re looking for something to start with, CPAP Online Australia offers a wide range of cleaning supplies for CPAP cleaning and maintenance.

It’s best to avoid using tap water to clean your DreamStation, especially in unfamiliar locations. Tap water might contain impurities that could harm your machine or irritate your airways. Instead, use distilled water or pre-packaged CPAP wipes to ensure safe and hygienic cleaning on the go.

Running the DreamStation during travel

Using the DreamStation in a caravan or RV

For travellers exploring the open road in caravans or recreational vehicles (RVs), charging the DreamStation battery is convenient and seamless. Most caravans and RVs are equipped with electrical outlets, making it easy to connect the DreamStation to the vehicle’s power system. This ensures a stable and consistent power supply for your CPAP therapy while you’re on the move.

Before setting off on your journey, ensure that your vehicle’s electrical system is compatible with the DreamStation’s power requirements (discussed in detail above). Caravan charging offers a reliable solution for DreamStation who prioritise comfort and leisure during their travels.

Using the DreamStation in the car

When you’re travelling by car and want to keep your DreamStation’s battery charged while on the road, a cigarette lighter charger may be your best option. Some CPAP battery packs, like the Medistrom Pilot Lite batteries are also equipped with a DC adapter that allows you to charge the battery using your vehicle’s cigarette lighter port.

While using the cigarette lighter charger is convenient, especially during road trips, it’s essential to be mindful of your vehicle’s battery. Charging your CPAP battery from the car’s battery can drain power, which might affect starting the car later. To avoid this, consider charging your battery pack while the engine is running or use a separate portable power station designed for CPAP machines.

Using the DreamStation while camping or during outdoor activities

You can use your DreamStation while camping or during outdoor activities by using a portable power source, such as a battery pack or a solar charger. These power solutions allow you to enjoy CPAP therapy even in remote locations without access to electricity.

Medistrom offers a solar charger designed to recharge their CPAP battery packs using solar energy. Their solar charger is portable and efficient, providing a sustainable power solution for users who are constantly on the go.

These portable solar panels are lightweight, foldable, and easy to take almost anywhere with you. However, although solar charging is an eco-friendly option, its effectiveness can vary depending on weather conditions and available sunlight so make sure you make plans accordingly!

Using the DreamStation on a plane

The Philips DreamStation is suitable for use on airlines when the device is operating from an AC or DC power source, although it is not suitable for airline use with any of the modems or humidifiers installed in the unit. The DreamStation meets the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements.  However, to avoid any issues, we recommend that you contact your airline in advance to inform them about your medical equipment and ensure you meet their specific guidelines. 

If you are travelling to a different country with your CPAP machine, make sure that you are aware of the travel guidelines for your device. Familiarising yourself with airline regulations will allow you to ensure a smooth experience during flights and will equip you to keep your DreamStation in the safest possible conditions throughout the entire duration of your journey. Be sure to inform security personnel about your CPAP machine at airport security checkpoints and carry a copy of your prescription or a doctor’s notes to avoid unnecessary complications or questions about the purpose and function of your machine.

Philips has actually prepared a letter to verify that you can the DreamStation is indeed safe for travel by plane and that it complies with RTCA/DO-1 60G section 21, category M.

When using the device on a plane:

• Make sure the humidifier is completely empty and that it has been disconnected from the device.
  
• Make sure that no modem module is attached to the device.

By considering these essential factors while travelling with your DreamStation, you’re well-prepared to embark on a stress-free journey. With the right planning, backup power solutions, and adherence to airline regulations, you can enjoy your adventures while prioritising your sleep apnea therapy.

As you prepare to embark on your journeys with the DreamStation, remember that the right accessories can be your allies in maintaining a consistent and effective CPAP therapy regimen. Whether it’s ensuring the safety of your device, adapting to varying power sources, or optimising your comfort, these travel accessories are here to support you. By investing in the right tools and making informed choices, you can enjoy the freedom to explore, rest, and rejuvenate—all while knowing that your DreamStation is ready to deliver the restful sleep you deserve.