Why camping with a CPAP is easier than you think
A lot of CPAP users skip camping because they think they can't power their machine. That was true a decade ago — but modern lithium batteries have changed everything. A battery the size of a hardcover book can run most CPAPs for a full night.
This guide covers everything from tent camping with a small battery to extended boondocking with solar recharging.
Gear list for CPAP camping
Essential
- CPAP machine (consider a travel-sized option like the ResMed AirMini)
- Portable battery or power station (sized for your needs)
- DC power cable for your specific CPAP model
- CPAP mask, hose, and filters
- Extension cord or cable (if needed)
Recommended
- Portable solar panel (100W for multi-night trips)
- HME filter (replaces heated humidifier — no power needed)
- Waterproof bag or hard case for the CPAP
- Microfiber cleaning cloth
- Distilled water packets (if using humidifier)
- Fleece hose cover (prevents condensation in cold weather)
Nice to have
- Battery monitor / watt meter (track real consumption)
- Small camp table (keeps CPAP level and off the ground)
- Mesh bag for cable organization
Battery sizing for camping
One-night trip
Most CPAP machines without a humidifier draw 15–30 W. For one night:
- Budget option: Jackery Explorer 240 v2 (241 Wh) — $189, reliable, lightweight
- Premium option: EcoFlow RIVER 2 (256 Wh) — $249, fast charging, LiFePO4
Weekend trip (2–3 nights)
Options:
- Single large battery: Jackery Explorer 500 (518 Wh) — handles 2–3 nights without humidifier
- Battery + solar: 240 Wh battery + 100W solar panel — recharge during the day
- Two smaller batteries: Alternate nights while charging the spare
Extended trip (4+ nights)
Solar becomes essential for extended off-grid use:
- Battery: 500–1,000 Wh power station
- Solar: 100–200W foldable panel
- Strategy: Run CPAP on battery overnight, recharge via solar during the day
Power optimization for camping
Every watt saved extends your battery life:
- Ditch the humidifier — saves 15–40 W; use an HME filter
- Use DC-direct power — 10–15% more efficient than AC
- Lower pressure slightly — ask your sleep doctor if a travel pressure profile makes sense
- Keep the battery warm — bring it inside your tent (cold = less capacity)
- Charge fully before leaving — top off at the trailhead if possible
Tent camping setup
- Place CPAP on a flat surface (small camp table, overturned bin, or inside a hard case lid)
- Position the battery nearby — keep cables short and tidy
- Route the hose from the CPAP to your pillow — keep it elevated to prevent condensation
- If using a solar panel, set it up facing south by morning to start charging immediately
Tip: Keep the CPAP inside a dry bag or under a tarp during rain. Most machines are NOT waterproof even though some batteries are rated IP67.
Car camping setup
Car camping is the easiest CPAP camping scenario:
- Park near your tent and run a DC cable from the car's 12V outlet
- Use a battery isolator to prevent draining your starter battery
- Or bring a mid-size power station that charges from the car during driving
Solar panel recommendations
| Panel | Wattage | Weight | Foldable | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jackery SolarSaga 100 | 100W | 10.3 lb | Yes | Weekend trips |
| EcoFlow 110W Panel | 110W | 13.2 lb | Yes | Extended camping |
| Bluetti PV120 | 120W | 12.5 lb | Yes | Maximum output |
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