Well, we finally got to try out Jerry’s setup for backpacking with sleep apnea. We tested several different setups before heading out and finally decided on this one.
I know there are a lot of opinions about backpacking with sleep apnea; some say to forego backpacking, some say they don’t use their CPAP while backpacking, and others don’t even have sleep apnea but want to give you their opinions LMAO. Jerry has no choice but to use a CPAP.
The goal is to keep his full winter weight pack for 4-5 days below 30 lbs! He also has pretty bad back problems that require injections every 3-6 months, and his nerves burned about every six months. So, every single gram truly does matter to him.
Article Contents
- Sleep Apnea Setup for Backpacking
- CPAP Machine
- CPAP Accessories
- Battery Bank
- Cords
- Total Weight
- FAQ About Backpacking with Sleep Apnea and a CPAP Machine
Sleep Apnea Setup for Backpacking
Keep in mind this is what works for him. We are not doctors, and none of this is considered medical advice. For reference, his pressure was set at 9 when we tested.
CPAP Machine for Backpacking
We obviously needed the absolute lightest CPAP machine we could find. We would be paying out of pocket for it since the VA does not pay for a travel CPAP. We went with the ResMed Air Mini (they now make a Transend Micro that weighs 0.48 lbs). The mini weighs just over 1/2 pound at 0.66 pounds or 10.56 ounces (this does not include the mask, tube, or power supply). We ordered ours through CPAP.com (not sponsored) and had a great experience.
Features we like & Specifications
- Weighs only 10.56 ounces
- Automatic Pressure Adjustments
- Automatic Start / Stop
- Waterless Humidification System
- Bluetooth Capable
- Works with his mask, so we don’t have to buy additional masks
- Sound Level: 30 dBA
- Machine Dimensions: 5.4 in L x 3.3 in W x 2.1 in H
- Default Machine Settings: 4-20cm H2O
- Exhalation Relief: Yes
- Ramp Mode: Yes
- Max Altitude: 8500
- DC Capable: Yes
- Typical Electricity Consumption: 6.3 W
CPAP Accessories
Mask: Thankfully, this machine is compatible with the mask he already uses, the AirTouch F20. It weighs in at 3.8 oz (with headgear)
Hose: ResMed AirMini Tubing. The downside is you have to use AirMini-specific tubing. The tubing weighs in at 3.1 oz.
Waterless Humidifier Filter: Humid X F20. The filter weighs 0.2 oz
Power Supply: We do not take the power supply that comes with the AirMini. See the power supplies used under the Battery Bank.
Battery Bank
We have tested multiple battery banks. The main issue was finding one that would last multiple nights (3-4) and not weigh a ton or be too bulky to carry. We also looked at price points to find the best deal. There are several well-known ones that the CPAP companies recommend, and while they are one pound each, you won’t get the best weight or bang for your buck. You’d need 4 of them to compare to the one we bought. So, in the long run, those would weigh more and cost A LOT more.
We ultimately went with the Easylonger ES720. You can click that link to see my full review. It weighs roughly 3.5 pounds (this includes the cord to charge it and the cord for the CPAP) and gives him just slightly over 40 hours (or 8 hours for five nights, which is plenty on the Appalachian Trail).
I have a couple more battery banks coming in that weigh slightly less, so once we get those tested, I will update this.
Cords
CPAP Cord: The cord used is an AirMini DC charging cord. We might change this out when the new battery arrives, as it comes with a cord for the AirMini that is less bulky and not a DC plug. This DC charging cord weighs 6.2 oz.
Battery Bank Cord: The battery bank cord is a Regular USB-C to USB-C cord. The wall outlet block used is an Anker USB-C and is not calculated into the weight as that weight is calculated into the electronic cords bag weight.
Total Weight
The total weight of everything combined on my scale weighs 4lbs 13oz. So, just shy of 5lbs for a complete CPAP setup that will last five nights.
FAQ About Backpacking with Sleep Apnea and a CPAP Machine
Why Not Just Lose Weight?
A common misconception is that those who suffer from Sleep Apnea are overweight and losing weight will solve it. That is simply not true. My husband was diagnosed with chronic obstructive sleep apnea when he was considered to be within a normal weight range with a healthy BMI, as well as being physically active and fit (he was still active duty Army at the time). While it may be true for a select few that their obesity is causing sleep apnea, it’s not the case for everyone.
Why Not Just Backpack Without It?
Ummm, because he can DIE! That’s not a risk I (nor he) will take. He is rated at 100% by the VA on this alone. It is that severe, and no, he does not snore. He just literally stops breathing.
If you backpack with a CPAP, I’d love to hear your setup and total weight, so leave us a comment below!
