Camping, RV trips, power outages and long flights all raise the same question: how do I run my CPAP without a wall outlet? Here’s what manufacturers and the FAA actually say.
Power numbers from ResMed
| AirSense 11 | AirSense 10 | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power supply | 65 W, 24 V DC output (2.71 A) | 24 V DC output (3.75 A) | ResMed user guides |
| Typical power consumption | 56.1 W | 53 W | ResMed user guides |
| Peak power consumption | 73.2 W | 104 W | ResMed user guides |
| DC accessory | Air11 DC/DC converter | Air10 DC/DC converter | ResMed user guides |
| Operating temperature | 41–95°F (5–35°C) | 41–95°F (5–35°C) | ResMed user guides |
| Operating altitude | Sea level to 9,870 ft | Sea level to 8,500 ft | ResMed user guides |
Sources: AirSense 11 user guide, AirSense 10 user guide. The AirMini travel CPAP has its own DC converter, listed at $89 on ResMed’s US shop on 13 October 2026, and a 20 W power supply ($59). See the travel CPAP guide.
How to estimate runtime, honestly
ResMed’s user guides don’t give a battery runtime, because it depends on your pressure, humidifier, tube heating and the battery. A rough ceiling: usable watt-hours ÷ watts drawn = hours.
| Battery usable capacity | At 56 W (AirSense 11 typical) | At 20 W (illustration only) |
|---|---|---|
| 100 Wh | about 1.8 h | about 5 h |
| 300 Wh | about 5.4 h | about 15 h |
| 500 Wh | about 9 h | about 25 h |
This is arithmetic, not a test. HHZ didn’t measure it. Your actual draw depends on pressure and on whether the humidifier is on, and converter losses can cut usable capacity. Use the battery maker’s published runtime for your exact CPAP model, then test a full night at home before relying on it.
Make the battery last
- Humidifier off. ResMed: “If you are using an external battery, you should turn off the humidifier in order to maximize the life of your battery” (AirSense 10 user guide). Expect a drier airway. See CPAP dry mouth.
- Check your battery maker’s chart for runtime with and without the humidifier and heated tube.
- Use the manufacturer’s accessories. ResMed’s user guides list the DC/DC converters as accessories. Don’t improvise wiring.
Camping limits
- Temperature: both AirSense models are rated to operate at 41–95°F. Cold nights in a tent can go below that.
- Altitude: AirSense 11 up to 9,870 ft, AirSense 10 up to 8,500 ft.
- Water: use distilled water in the tub, and empty the tub before moving the machine. ResMed warns against using the AirSense 11 with water in the tub in transit.
- Dust and cleaning: carry spare filters. See how to clean a CPAP.
Flying with a CPAP battery
From the FAA’s PackSafe lithium battery rules:
| Battery | Carry-on | Checked bag |
|---|---|---|
| Spare lithium-ion, up to 100 Wh | Yes | No |
| Spare lithium-ion, 101–160 Wh | Up to 2, with airline approval | No |
| Power banks | Yes | No |
The FAA also requires battery terminals to be protected from short circuit. If a carry-on bag is gate-checked, spare batteries must be removed and kept with you. Both AirSense models meet FAA requirements for use in flight, and ResMed’s AirSense 10 guide says medical devices don’t count toward your carry-on limit. Airlines may have their own rules on in-flight battery use, so check with yours.
Power outages
If you rely on CPAP at home, a battery or power station sized for one night is your backup. The AirSense 10 guide says that if power is interrupted during therapy, the device restarts therapy automatically when power returns.
Verdict
For camping, use the manufacturer’s DC converter or a battery listed for your CPAP. Turn the humidifier and tube heating off. Size the battery with the maker’s runtime chart and test it for a night at home. Watch the 41°F and altitude limits. For flights, keep lithium batteries in your carry-on and under 100 Wh, or get airline approval for up to two spares of 101–160 Wh.
Related: AirSense 11 vs AirSense 10, best travel CPAP machines, FAA portable oxygen rules.
See also: Power outage plan for CPAP and oxygen.