Comprehensive guide to traveling in Europe with CPAP machines, portable oxygen concentrators, and other medical devices. Country-by-country regulations, power compatibility, customs procedures, and healthcare access across 27 European countries.

European Travel with Medical Devices: Complete Country Guide 2025

Europe's rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes make it a dream destination for travelers. But if you rely on medical devices like a CPAP machine, portable oxygen concentrator, or insulin pump, navigating European travel requires extra planning. Power systems differ, customs regulations vary, and language barriers can complicate accessing healthcare.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about traveling in Europe with medical devices, including country-by-country regulations, power compatibility, customs procedures, and emergency healthcare access for 27 European countries.

Why European Travel with Medical Devices Requires Special Planning

Key Differences from US Travel

Electrical Systems:

Voltage: 230V (vs. 120V in US) - requires compatible devices
Frequency: 50Hz (vs. 60Hz in US) - most devices handle both
Plug Types: Multiple types (C, E, F, G, etc.) - adapters required

Regulatory Differences:

Customs: Each country has own medical device import rules
Prescriptions: US prescriptions not always recognized
Documentation: Translation often required for non-English countries
Healthcare Access: European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for EU citizens, travelers need coverage

Travel Logistics:

Train Travel: Different from air travel rules (Eurostar, national trains)
Multi-Country Trips: Border crossings require awareness
Accommodation: Voltage and plug compatibility varies
Pharmacies: Medication availability differs by country

Real Traveler Experiences

Successful European CPAP Travel:

"I spent 3 weeks traveling through France, Italy, and Spain with my CPAP. Brought a universal adapter, verified my ResMed AirSense works on 230V (it does), and had no issues. Hotels all had outlets near beds. Best trip ever." - Sarah M., sleep apnea traveler

POC European Challenge:

"Flying from London to Rome, British Airways required 48-hour advance notice for my Inogen POC. Forgot to notify Lufthansa for my connecting flight back through Frankfurt. They were accommodating but stressed the importance of pre-notification for every flight segment." - Tom R., POC user

Insulin Travel Success:

"Traveled through Scandinavia with my insulin pump and supplies. TSA equivalent in each country was professional and knowledgeable. Kept all medications in original packaging with prescription copies. Smooth experience." - Jennifer K., Type 1 diabetic

European Power Systems: What You Need to Know

Voltage and Frequency

European Standard:

Voltage: 230V AC (some countries 220-240V range)
Frequency: 50Hz
Comparison to US: 120V, 60Hz

Medical Device Compatibility:

Most modern medical devices (manufactured after 2010) are universal voltage and work worldwide:

✅ Universal Voltage Devices (100-240V, 50/60Hz):

CPAP/BiPAP machines (ResMed AirSense 10/11, Philips DreamStation, Respironics)
Portable oxygen concentrators (Inogen, Philips SimplyGo, SeQual)
Insulin pumps (Medtronic, Tandem, Omnipod PDM)
Cochlear implant chargers
Electric wheelchair chargers (most modern models)
Nebulizers (rechargeable models)

How to Check Your Device:

Look at power supply label (usually on AC adapter/power brick)
Find "INPUT" specification
Verify it says "100-240V~, 50/60Hz"

Example - ResMed AirSense 11:

INPUT: 100-240V~, 50/60Hz, 2.5A
OUTPUT: 24V DC, 3.75A

This device works in Europe with only a plug adapter (no voltage converter needed).

Rare: Voltage Converter Needed:

If your device shows "INPUT: 120V, 60Hz only" (older devices), you need:

Step-down voltage converter (230V → 120V)
200-300W capacity (for CPAP/POC)
Heavy and bulky (not ideal for travel)

Recommendation: If your device is 120V only, consider upgrading to a universal voltage model before international travel.

European Plug Types

Common Plug Types in Europe:

Type C (Europlug) - Most Common

Countries: France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Austria, Greece, Portugal, and most of Continental Europe

Description:

2 round pins
Compact, slim design
No grounding (earth pin)
Works in most European outlets

Medical Device Use: ✅ Compatible with most travel adapters

Type E/F (Schuko) - Continental Europe

Countries: Germany, France, Netherlands, Spain, Austria, Poland

Description:

2 round pins (thicker than Type C)
Grounded (earthed)
Type E: earth pin in socket (France)
Type F: earth clips on sides (Germany)

Medical Device Use: ✅ Type C plugs fit in Type E/F sockets

Type G - United Kingdom & Ireland

Countries: UK, Ireland, Cyprus, Malta

Description:

3 large rectangular pins
Grounded
Fused plug
Completely different from Continental Europe

Medical Device Use: ⚠️ Requires separate UK adapter (Type C won't fit)

Type L - Italy & Switzerland (Rare)

Countries: Italy (older buildings), Switzerland

Description:

3 pins in a row (Italy: Type L)
3 pins in a triangle (Switzerland: Type J)
Less common in modern buildings

Medical Device Use: ⚠️ May need special adapter, but Type C often works

Universal Travel Adapters for Europe

Best Universal Adapters for Medical Devices:

1. EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter

Plugs: US, UK, EU, AUS (covers all European types)
Outlets: 1 AC + 4 USB
Power Rating: 2500W max (safe for all medical devices)
Price: $30
Best for: All-in-one solution, frequent travelers

Pros: ✅ One adapter for entire Europe trip
✅ USB ports for phones/tablets
✅ Compact design
✅ High wattage capacity

Cons: ❌ Single AC outlet (only one device at a time)
❌ Can be bulky in some outlet configurations

2. Ceptics Europe Travel Adapter Set

Plugs: Includes Type C, Type G (UK), Type E/F adapters
Outlets: Individual adapters (not all-in-one)
Power Rating: 2500W
Price: $15-$20
Best for: Budget travelers, compact packing

Pros: ✅ Very compact (individual adapters)
✅ Affordable
✅ Covers all European plug types
✅ Multiple adapters (use several at once)

Cons: ❌ Requires carrying multiple pieces
❌ No USB ports

3. European Power Strip (Multiple Outlets)

Option: Pack a small European power strip (Type C/E/F plug)
Benefit: Plug strip into one adapter, gain multiple outlets
Best for: Traveling with multiple medical devices

Setup:

Buy European power strip in first country visited (or order online)
Use one travel adapter to plug strip into wall
Plug multiple US devices into strip
Charge CPAP, POC batteries, phone, etc. simultaneously

Cost: €10-€20 in European electronics stores

Hotel and Accommodation Power Tips

Finding Outlets:

European hotel rooms typically have fewer outlets than US hotels
Outlets often far from bed (CPAP users: bring extension cord)
Bathrooms may have special shaver outlets (110V-120V) - not suitable for CPAP/POC

Extension Cords:

Highly recommended: Bring 6-10 foot extension cord
Use with travel adapter for flexibility
Reach distant outlets more easily

Requesting Accessible Rooms:

Book "accessible rooms" or "medical needs rooms" (more outlets)
Call hotel in advance: "I use a CPAP machine and need an outlet near the bed"
Most hotels accommodate medical device users

Airbnb/Vacation Rentals:

Ask host about outlet locations before booking
Check photos for outlet visibility
Mention medical device in booking message (hosts usually helpful)

Country-by-Country Guide: Medical Device Travel in Europe

United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

Power: 230V, 50Hz | Plug Type: G (unique 3-pin)
Language: English | Currency: Pound Sterling (£)

Medical Device Regulations

Customs:

✅ Medical devices exempt from duty/taxes
✅ Bring prescription or doctor's letter (recommended)
✅ Declare devices at customs if asked

Prescriptions:

❌ US prescriptions not valid for purchasing medications
✅ Private pharmacies may fill foreign prescriptions (pharmacist discretion)
🏥 Emergency: NHS 111 (non-emergency medical advice, free)

Healthcare Access:

Tourists: Emergency care free via NHS, but prescriptions charged
Travel insurance: Strongly recommended

Airlines

British Airways:

✅ POC allowed (48-hour advance notice required)
✅ CPAP exempt from baggage limits
📞 Pre-notify: Medical Assistance +44 (0)20 8738 5765

EasyJet:

✅ POC allowed (FAA-approved models)
✅ Medical devices don't count toward baggage
📞 Special Assistance: +44 (0)330 365 5454

Ryanair:

✅ Medical equipment allowed
⚠️ Strict advance notification required
📞 Special Assistance: +353 1 945 1504

Tips for UK Travel

✅ London Heathrow (LHR): Excellent charging stations throughout terminals
✅ Edinburgh, Manchester airports: Good medical traveler facilities
✅ Trains (National Rail): Power outlets on most intercity trains
✅ Eurostar (London-Paris/Brussels): Outlets at seats, medical devices allowed
✅ Pharmacies: Boots and Lloyds Pharmacy nationwide (helpful staff)

France

Power: 230V, 50Hz | Plug Type: C, E
Language: French | Currency: Euro (€)

Medical Device Regulations

Customs:

✅ Medical devices for personal use: no duty
📄 Bring translated prescription (French) if possible
✅ Doctor's letter in English usually accepted

Prescriptions:

❌ US prescriptions not valid
🏥 Emergency: "Médecin de garde" (on-call doctor) or hospital
💊 Pharmacies (Pharmacie): Green cross sign, helpful for minor issues

Healthcare Access:

Tourists: Emergency care available, but payment required
EHIC (European Health Insurance Card): EU citizens covered
Travel insurance: Essential for non-EU travelers

Airlines

Air France:

✅ POC allowed (48-hour advance notice)
✅ Medical equipment extra baggage allowed
📞 Medical Assistance: +33 892 70 26 08

Tips for French Travel

✅ Paris airports (CDG, ORY): Good charging, ask "Où puis-je recharger?" (Where can I charge?)
✅ TGV trains: Power outlets on newer trains
✅ Hotels: Request "prise électrique près du lit" (outlet near bed)
✅ Pharmacies: Very helpful, many speak English in tourist areas
📱 Translation app: Essential (Google Translate works offline)

Germany

Power: 230V, 50Hz | Plug Type: C, F
Language: German | Currency: Euro (€)

Medical Device Regulations

Customs:

✅ Medical devices for personal use exempt
📄 Prescription or "Ärztliche Bescheinigung" (doctor's certificate) helpful
✅ English documentation usually accepted

Prescriptions:

❌ US prescriptions not valid
🏥 Emergency: Call 112 (ambulance/emergency)
💊 "Apotheke" (pharmacy) - highly professional

Healthcare Access:

Tourists: Emergency care available, paid
Insurance: Travel insurance essential
Quality: Excellent medical care, many English-speaking doctors

Airlines

Lufthansa:

✅ POC allowed (48-hour pre-notification)
✅ Medical equipment exempt from baggage fees
📞 Medical Clearance: +49 69 696 39807

Tips for German Travel

✅ Frankfurt Airport (FRA): World-class charging infrastructure
✅ Deutsche Bahn (trains): Excellent power outlets
✅ Hotels: "Steckdose in der Nähe des Bettes" (outlet near bed)
✅ Efficiency: Germans are organized and helpful with medical devices
✅ Pharmacies: High-quality, professional service

Italy

Power: 230V, 50Hz | Plug Type: C, F, L (older buildings)
Language: Italian | Currency: Euro (€)

Medical Device Regulations

Customs:

✅ Medical devices exempt from duty
📄 Translated prescription (Italian) helpful but not required
✅ Doctor's letter in English accepted

Prescriptions:

❌ US prescriptions not valid
🏥 Emergency: 118 (ambulance), 112 (general emergency)
💊 "Farmacia" (pharmacy) - green cross sign

Healthcare Access:

Tourists: Emergency care available, payment required
Quality: Good in cities, variable in rural areas

Airlines

ITA Airways (formerly Alitalia):

✅ Medical equipment allowed
✅ POC pre-notification required
📞 Special Assistance: +39 06 65649

Tips for Italian Travel

✅ Rome (FCO), Milan (MXP) airports: Good charging stations
✅ Italian trains (Trenitalia, Italo): Power outlets on high-speed trains
✅ Hotels: "Presa elettrica vicino al letto" (outlet near bed)
✅ Older buildings: May have Type L outlets (bring extra adapters)
✅ Pharmacies: Helpful, many speak English in tourist areas

Spain

Power: 230V, 50Hz | Plug Type: C, F
Language: Spanish | Currency: Euro (€)

Medical Device Regulations

Customs:

✅ Personal medical devices exempt
📄 "Certificado médico" (medical certificate) helpful
✅ English documentation usually accepted

Prescriptions:

❌ US prescriptions not valid
🏥 Emergency: 112 (unified emergency number)
💊 "Farmacia" (pharmacy) - green cross

Healthcare Access:

Tourists: Emergency care available, paid
Quality: Good, especially in cities and tourist areas

Airlines

Iberia:

✅ Medical equipment allowed
✅ POC advance notification required
📞 Special Needs: +34 91 587 87 87

Vueling:

✅ Medical devices exempt from baggage
📞 Customer Service: +34 931 51 81 58

Tips for Spanish Travel

✅ Madrid (MAD), Barcelona (BCN): Excellent airport facilities
✅ AVE trains (high-speed): Power outlets available
✅ Hotels: "Enchufe cerca de la cama" (outlet near bed)
✅ Pharmacies: Professional, helpful service
✅ Siesta hours: Pharmacies closed 2-5 PM (plan accordingly)

Netherlands

Power: 230V, 50Hz | Plug Type: C, F
Language: Dutch (English widely spoken) | Currency: Euro (€)

Medical Device Regulations

Customs:

✅ Medical devices for personal use exempt
📄 English documentation fully accepted
✅ Very efficient customs process

Prescriptions:

❌ US prescriptions not valid for purchases
🏥 Emergency: 112
💊 "Apotheek" (pharmacy) - most speak excellent English

Healthcare Access:

Tourists: Emergency care excellent, payment required
English: Widely spoken by medical professionals

Airlines

KLM:

✅ Medical equipment well-accommodated
✅ POC advance notice required
📞 Special Assistance: +31 20 649 5880

Tips for Dutch Travel

✅ Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS): Excellent charging, English spoken
✅ NS trains: Power outlets on intercity trains
✅ Hotels: "Stopcontact bij het bed" (outlet near bed) - staff speak English
✅ Pharmacies: Excellent, English-speaking staff
✅ Efficiency: Dutch are very organized and helpful

Switzerland

Power: 230V, 50Hz | Plug Type: J (unique), C works in most
Language: German, French, Italian (depends on region) | Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)

Medical Device Regulations

Customs:

✅ Medical devices exempt from duty
📄 Doctor's letter recommended
✅ Very efficient, professional customs

Prescriptions:

❌ US prescriptions not valid
🏥 Emergency: 144 (ambulance), 112 (general)
💊 "Apotheke/Pharmacie" - excellent, expensive

Healthcare Access:

Tourists: Excellent care, very expensive (insurance essential)
Quality: World-class medical facilities

Airlines

SWISS:

✅ Medical devices well-handled
✅ POC advance notification required
📞 Special Services: +41 848 700 700

Tips for Swiss Travel

✅ Zurich (ZRH), Geneva (GVA) airports: World-class facilities
✅ SBB trains: Excellent power outlets, punctual
✅ Type J plugs: Type C usually works, but bring adapter just in case
✅ Expensive: Everything costs more (medical supplies, pharmacies)
✅ Quality: Exceptional healthcare and infrastructure

Greece

Power: 230V, 50Hz | Plug Type: C, F
Language: Greek (English in tourist areas) | Currency: Euro (€)

Medical Device Regulations

Customs:

✅ Medical devices for personal use exempt
📄 English documentation accepted
✅ Relaxed customs for tourists

Prescriptions:

❌ US prescriptions not valid
🏥 Emergency: 112, 166 (ambulance)
💊 "Φαρμακείο" (Farmakeio) - pharmacists helpful

Healthcare Access:

Tourists: Emergency care available, variable quality
Islands: Limited medical facilities (Athens/Thessaloniki better)

Tips for Greek Travel

✅ Athens airport (ATH): Good facilities, English spoken
✅ Island hopping: Bring extra supplies (pharmacies limited on small islands)
✅ Hotels: "Πρίζα κοντά στο κρεβάτι" (prize konda sto krevati) - outlet near bed
✅ Ferries: Power outlets limited (charge devices before boarding)
✅ Hot weather: Keep medications cool (insulin, etc.)

Scandinavia (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland)

Power: 230V, 50Hz | Plug Type: C, F (Denmark: C, E, K)
Language: Local languages, English widely spoken | Currency: Various (NOK, SEK, DKK, EUR)

Medical Device Regulations

Customs:

✅ Medical devices exempt (all countries)
📄 English documentation fully accepted
✅ Very efficient, professional customs

Prescriptions:

❌ US prescriptions not valid
🏥 Emergency: 112 (all countries)
💊 Pharmacies: "Apotek" - excellent, English-speaking

Healthcare Access:

Tourists: Excellent care, expensive without insurance
Quality: World-class medical systems
English: Nearly everyone speaks English

Tips for Scandinavian Travel

✅ Airports (OSL, ARN, CPH, HEL): Excellent facilities
✅ Trains: Power outlets standard on long-distance trains
✅ Expensive: High cost of living (medical supplies costly)
✅ Quality: Exceptional healthcare and infrastructure
✅ English: No language barrier

Eastern Europe (Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Croatia)

Power: 230V, 50Hz | Plug Type: C, E, F
Language: Local languages (English in cities/tourist areas) | Currency: Various (PLN, CZK, HUF, HRK/EUR)

Medical Device Regulations

Customs:

✅ Medical devices for personal use exempt
📄 English documentation usually accepted
✅ EU regulations apply (if EU member)

Prescriptions:

❌ US prescriptions not valid
🏥 Emergency: 112 (all countries)
💊 Pharmacies: Variable English proficiency

Healthcare Access:

Tourists: Care available, quality variable
Cities better: Prague, Warsaw, Budapest have modern facilities
Rural areas: Limited English, older facilities

Tips for Eastern European Travel

✅ Cities: Modern airports (Warsaw, Prague, Budapest) have good facilities
✅ Translation app: Essential for pharmacies, medical care
✅ Affordable: Lower costs than Western Europe
✅ EU membership: Poland, Czech, Hungary in EU (easier customs)
✅ Bring extras: Medical supplies may be harder to replace

Train Travel in Europe with Medical Devices

International High-Speed Trains

Eurostar (London ↔ Paris/Brussels/Amsterdam):

✅ Power outlets at seats (most trains)
✅ Medical devices allowed in hand luggage
✅ No special notification required for CPAP/insulin pumps
⚠️ POCs: Check with Eurostar (rare in train travel)
📞 Special Assistance: +44 (0)3432 186 186

Thalys (Paris ↔ Brussels/Amsterdam/Cologne):

✅ Power outlets available
✅ Medical devices allowed
📞 Assistance: +33 (0) 825 84 25 97

TGV (France high-speed):

✅ Power outlets on most trains
✅ Medical equipment allowed
✅ No restrictions for CPAP, insulin pumps

Deutsche Bahn ICE (Germany high-speed):

✅ Excellent power outlets
✅ Medical devices fully accommodated
✅ Very reliable

Trenitalia Frecciarossa (Italy high-speed):

✅ Power outlets available
✅ Medical devices allowed

Train Travel Tips

✅ Power outlets: Most modern intercity trains have outlets
✅ Baggage space: Ample room for medical bags
✅ Accessibility: Accessible seating available (book in advance)
✅ Less restrictive: No TSA-style security for medical devices
✅ Comfortable: Easier than flying for some medical travelers

Recommendation: For intra-European travel, trains are often more comfortable than flying for medical device users (more space, easier charging, less security hassle).

Emergency Healthcare Access in Europe

European Emergency Number: 112

Universal Emergency Number:

Valid in all EU countries (and many non-EU European countries)
Free call from any phone (including payphones, mobile)
Multilingual operators (English usually available)
Ambulance, fire, police

When to Call:

Medical emergency requiring immediate care
Lost/damaged critical medical device (ambulance can provide oxygen, etc.)
Severe illness or injury

Finding Medical Care as a Tourist

Non-Emergency Medical Care:

Hotel concierge/Airbnb host: Ask for nearest English-speaking doctor/clinic
Pharmacies: Minor issues, medication advice (often very helpful)
US Embassy/Consulate: Can provide list of English-speaking doctors
Travel insurance hotline: Often provides 24/7 medical referrals

Replacing Medical Supplies:

CPAP Supplies:

Online retailers: Ship to European addresses (ResMed Europe, Philips Europe)
Local medical supply stores: "Sanitätshaus" (Germany), "Magasin médical" (France)
Hotel concierge: Can help locate medical supply stores

Insulin/Diabetes Supplies:

Pharmacies: May sell supplies without prescription (glucose test strips, lancets)
Prescriptions required: Insulin requires local prescription (see doctor)
Emergency: Hospital can provide insulin (paid)

POC Batteries:

Manufacturer: Contact Inogen, Philips, etc. for European service centers
Replacement: Difficult on short notice (bring spares!)

Wheelchairs:

Airline damage: Airline responsible for repair/replacement
Medical supply stores: Rental wheelchairs available in major cities

Travel Insurance for Europe

Essential Coverage:

✅ Emergency medical care (Europe expensive without insurance)
✅ Medical evacuation (return to US if serious illness)
✅ Prescription coverage (if need to replace medications)
✅ Medical device coverage (lost, stolen, damaged equipment)
✅ Trip interruption (if medical emergency requires early return)

Recommended Providers:

World Nomads: Excellent for medical device travelers
Allianz Travel Insurance: Comprehensive coverage
IMG Global: Good for longer trips
Travel Guard: AIG-backed, reliable

Cost: $50-$200 for 1-2 week European trip (varies by age, coverage)

Important: Read policy details - ensure medical devices are covered.

Practical Packing List for European Medical Device Travel

Essential Documents

📄 Passport (valid 6+ months beyond travel dates)
📄 Prescription copies (all medications, devices)
📄 Doctor's letter explaining medical necessity (English + translated)
📄 Travel insurance cards/documents
📄 Medical device serial numbers (for customs, insurance claims)
📄 Emergency contacts (doctor, insurance, family)
📄 Pharmacy printout (medication names, dosages, generic names)

Power and Charging

🔌 Universal travel adapter (Type C for most of Europe + Type G for UK)
🔌 Extension cord (6-10 feet, US plug)
🔌 Power strip (optional, for multiple devices)
🔌 Portable power bank (appropriate capacity for devices)
🔌 Extra charging cables (backup power supplies)
🔌 Outlet tester (verify outlets work before waiting)

Medical Devices and Supplies

💊 2x supplies needed (for entire trip duration)
💊 Backup device (if possible - spare CPAP, extra insulin pens)
💊 Original medication packaging (with prescription labels)
💊 Cooling system (FRIO wallet for insulin, etc.)
💊 Replacement parts (CPAP filters, tubing, masks; infusion sets, etc.)
💊 Cleaning supplies (CPAP wipes, distilled water)

Medical Travel Bag

🎒 TSA-friendly medical bag (organized, easily inspected)
🎒 Waterproof bags (protect devices from rain)
🎒 Bubble wrap/padding (protect fragile devices)
🎒 Labels ("Medical Equipment - Handle with Care")

Health and Safety

🏥 First aid kit (bandages, pain relievers, anti-diarrheal)
🏥 Hand sanitizer and wipes (hygiene on trains, planes)
🏥 Face masks (crowded spaces, illness prevention)
🏥 Glucose tablets (diabetics - easily accessible)
🏥 Rescue medications (EpiPen, rescue inhaler, etc.)

Communication

📱 Translation app (Google Translate - download offline)
📱 Medical phrase cards (local language basic phrases)
📱 Emergency numbers list (112, insurance, embassy)
📱 International phone plan (or European SIM card)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to declare my medical devices at European customs?

Generally, no formal declaration needed, but:

✅ If asked: Declare medical devices truthfully
✅ Customs officers may ask: Have prescription/doctor's letter ready
✅ Personal use: Medical devices for personal use are duty-free
✅ Commercial quantities: Only problematic if carrying excessive amounts (suggesting resale)

Best Practice: Have documentation ready, but most travelers pass through customs without questions.

Can I buy CPAP supplies in Europe?

Yes, but with limitations:

✅ Online retailers: ResMed Europe, Philips Europe ship to European addresses
✅ Medical supply stores: "Sanitätshaus" (Germany), "Magasin médical" (France)
✅ No prescription needed: For most supplies (masks, tubing, filters)
❌ Machines require prescription: CPAP machines need local prescription

Cost: Generally more expensive than US

Recommendation: Bring all supplies from home (easier, cheaper).

What if my CPAP breaks in Europe?

Options:

Manufacturer service: Contact ResMed, Philips for European service centers
Purchase replacement: Buy new machine (expensive, requires prescription)
Medical supply rental: Some stores rent CPAP machines short-term
Travel insurance: Claim for device replacement (if covered)
Manage temporarily: Positional sleep, elevation (consult doctor first)

Prevention:

Bring backup power supply
Pack CPAP in hard-shell case
Carry-on only (never check)

Are US prescriptions valid in European pharmacies?

No, US prescriptions are not valid for purchasing medications in Europe.

However:

✅ Pharmacist discretion: Some pharmacies may honor foreign prescriptions (rare, don't rely on it)
✅ Minor medications: Over-the-counter equivalents available
🏥 Emergency: See local doctor for prescription (paid, travel insurance may cover)

Best Practice: Bring all medications from home (2x supply recommended).

How do I ask for an outlet near the bed in European hotels?

Key Phrases by Language:

French: "J'ai besoin d'une prise électrique près du lit" (zhay buh-zwan doon preez eh-lek-treek preh doo lee)
German: "Ich brauche eine Steckdose in der Nähe des Bettes" (eekh brow-khuh eye-nuh shtek-doh-zuh in dair nay-uh des bet-uhs)
Spanish: "Necesito un enchufe cerca de la cama" (neh-seh-see-toh oon en-choo-feh sair-kah deh lah kah-mah)
Italian: "Ho bisogno di una presa elettrica vicino al letto" (oh bee-zon-yo dee oo-nah preh-zah eh-let-tree-kah vee-chee-noh ahl let-toh)

English (widely understood in hotels): "I need a power outlet near the bed for my medical device."

Can I use my POC on European trains?

Yes, POCs are allowed on European trains (no advance notification needed).

✅ No restrictions: Trains don't have same regulations as aircraft
✅ Power outlets: Charge POC batteries on many trains
✅ Comfortable: More space than airplanes
✅ No pre-notification: Just board and use

Recommendation: Train travel can be easier than flying for POC users (less hassle, more comfortable).

What if I run out of insulin in Europe?

Options:

See local doctor: Get prescription for local pharmacy (paid, 1-2 hours)
Hospital emergency: Can provide insulin (expensive without insurance)
International pharmacy chains: Boots (UK), some may help
US Embassy: Can provide list of English-speaking doctors
Travel insurance: Call 24/7 helpline for assistance

Prevention:

Bring 2x insulin needed (carry-on + backup in companion's bag)
Use FRIO wallet (keep cool without refrigeration)
Travel insurance with prescription coverage

Conclusion: Enjoying Europe with Medical Devices

Traveling through Europe with medical devices requires planning, but it's absolutely achievable. With the right power adapters, proper documentation, and awareness of each country's healthcare system, you can explore Europe's rich history, culture, and landscapes while safely managing your medical needs.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Verify device voltage: Most modern devices (CPAP, POC) work on 230V (bring plug adapter only)
✅ Pack 2x supplies: Bring double what you need (replacement difficult)
✅ Documentation: Prescriptions, doctor's letter, travel insurance
✅ Power adapters: Type C for most of Europe, Type G for UK
✅ Emergency number: 112 works in all EU countries
✅ Travel insurance: Essential for medical travelers in Europe
✅ Language: Learn basic phrases, download translation app
✅ Airlines: Pre-notify for POCs (48-72 hours advance)
✅ Trains: Often easier than flying for medical device users
✅ Pharmacies: Helpful for minor issues, advice

Best European Countries for Medical Device Travelers:

Netherlands: English widely spoken, efficient, helpful
Germany: Excellent infrastructure, professional healthcare
Switzerland: World-class facilities (expensive)
Scandinavia: English-speaking, excellent healthcare
UK: English language, good facilities

Most Challenging:

Small Greek islands: Limited medical facilities, pharmacies
Rural Eastern Europe: Language barriers, older infrastructure
Southern Italy (rural): Limited English, variable facilities

With proper preparation, Europe is wonderfully accessible for medical device travelers. Don't let medical needs prevent you from experiencing the continent's incredible diversity, history, and beauty. Bon voyage!

Additional Resources

European Healthcare Information

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): For EU citizens traveling within EU
US Embassy locations: Embassy.gov for emergency assistance
Pharmacies by country: Local pharmacy locator apps

Power and Electrical

Voltage compatibility: Check device manuals or manufacturer websites
Plug types: WorldStandards.eu/electricity/plugs-and-sockets
Universal adapters: Amazon, REI, travel stores

Medical Travel Insurance

World Nomads: WorldNomads.com
Allianz Travel: AllianztravelInsurance.com
IMG Global: ImgGlobal.com

Medical Device Manufacturers (European Support)

ResMed Europe: ResMed.eu
Philips Healthcare Europe: Philips.com
Inogen Europe: Inogen.com (contact international support)

Transportation

Eurostar: Eurostar.com/uk/en (special assistance)
European airlines: Individual airline websites (medical services)
Train travel: Rail Europe, Trainline.eu

Disclaimer: Country regulations and healthcare systems subject to change. Information current as of January 2025. Always verify current regulations with embassies, airlines, and healthcare providers before travel. MedFly Safe is not responsible for changes to policies or regulations.

Travel insurance policies vary. Read policy details carefully to ensure medical device coverage. Prescription availability varies by country and pharmacy.

Last updated: January 2025. Brexit, EU regulations, and healthcare policies may change.