CPAP Machine
CPAP machines are allowed in carry-on and checked baggage, and they don't count toward your carry-on bag limit.
Carry-on
Allowed
Checked
Allowed
Carry-on details
Allowed. You can bring your CPAP, BiPAP, or APAP machine in carry-on, and as an assistive medical device it does not count against your carry-on bag limit — it travels separately from your personal item and carry-on bag. At the checkpoint, the machine itself must come out of its carrying case for X-ray screening (an officer can give you a clear plastic bag for it); the mask and tubing can stay in the case. TSA PreCheck travelers generally don't need to remove it. Let the officer know you're carrying a CPAP if you have questions about screening.
Checked-bag details
Allowed, but TSA and sleep-medicine specialists strongly recommend carry-on instead. Checked bags can be delayed, lost, or handled roughly, and cargo-hold temperature swings aren't ideal for the equipment.
Special instructions
Distilled water for a CPAP humidifier is allowed in checked baggage but not in carry-on, so travel with an empty humidifier chamber and buy distilled water after security or at your destination. If you use a battery pack to run your CPAP overnight, spare lithium batteries must stay in carry-on.
Related rules
FAQ
- Does my CPAP machine count as my carry-on bag?
- No. CPAP machines and other assistive medical devices don't count against your carry-on or personal item limit, so you can bring one in addition to your normal bags.
- Can I bring distilled water for my CPAP through security?
- Not in carry-on. Distilled water for a CPAP humidifier isn't covered by the medical liquid exception in carry-on, so pack an empty humidifier chamber and get water after security. It is allowed in checked baggage.
Related items
Sources: TSA — What Can I Bring?, FAA — PackSafe (Hazardous Materials) · Last verified: 2026-07-30
Final decision rests with the security officer at the checkpoint.