How to Travel With Liquid Oxygen

Supplemental oxygen is used to treat a number of disorders for individuals of all ages. Traveling with liquid oxygen can be dangerous but can be successfully accomplished with proper planning. It is important to first check with your physician before traveling with your oxygen to be sure that your oxygen supply will be enough to sustain you during your trip. There should also be a full understanding of the safety precautions associated with your oxygen tank.

Instructions

Car

1

Remove all therapeutic attachments before moving the tank. The flow meter should be removed and the tank should be capped prior to moving.

2

Place the oxygen tank in an upright position and in the cab of the vehicle. The tank should not be stored in any other position or in the trunk of a vehicle.

3

Open windows to ensure there is enough ventilation. Liquid oxygen tanks release small amounts of gas that can be dangerous in enclosed places. Opening windows ensures that these gases do not remain trapped in the vehicle and cause harm to occupants.

Air Travel

4

Call the airline and notify them that you will be traveling with oxygen at least 24 hours in advanced. The airline will be able to provide you with the additional costs associated with traveling with oxygen.

5

Submit your prescription from your doctor to the gate agent for verification.

6

Submit your doctor's release to the gate agent as proof that you are allowed to travel. The medical release may include several documents that may have to be surrendered to the gate agent.