Travelling abroad/best portable compressor in your opinion please

[WeirdOxygenGirl]

Hi I’m new here!

I had LV Heart Failure in 2010 and lived a fairly unrestricted life. In Jan this year I contracted COVID which has made my condition worse with RV Heart failure (pacemaker upgraded) and type II respiratory failure for which I’m on 2 litres at rest, 3 mobilising and 4 at night through my NIV.

I’m returning to driving but ultimately I would like to be able to travel abroad again.

I need your help please as I feel like a prisoner in my own home.

Can you recommend portable oxygen compressors? (Makes models) and any general tips for flying.

Thank you

[AngieB72]

Hi You will have to have a fit to fly test to assess if you can actually fly safely. Also look into travel insurance costs as they can be huge. I can’t help with the suitable concentrator bit as I’ve always used the airlines cylinders before they changed the ‘rules’. I can no longer fly for any longer than 8 hours and need oxygen for any flight over 2 hours.

[WeirdOxygenGirl in reply to AngieB72]

Thank you

[Kate124]

I use an inogen 5. Latest model. Goes up to 6 litres. It's one of the airline approved models. Maybe Google which models are allowed on planes.

[Joy123 in reply to Kate124]

I’m waiting to get the Imogen 5 from my oxygen provider. Do you find it light/easy to carry? My current one is on a trolley but I understand that the new machines don’t come with a trolley, I see they can be bought online though for approx £130. Not cheap! . Joy x.

[Kate124 in reply to Joy123]

It is quite heavy but I use a mobility scooter so don't carry it much. I did buy a cheap backpack to put it in. Had to cut lots of holes for ventilation in bag but evens the weight of machine a bit.

[Joy123 in reply to Kate124]

Thank you. Keep well and safe. Joy x

[Kate124 in reply to Joy123]

You too. Good luck with your inogen x

[WeirdOxygenGirl]

I will, same to you all. I found a great company covering bucks/Oxfordshire who hire and sell reconditioned POC’s called Driving Force.