Living with a lung disease brings many challenges, especially when you need supplemental oxygen and you want to travel. Here's what you need to know before you leave:

Planning Your Trip / Before Leaving

Long before your trip, talk to your doctor. Discuss your travel plans, especially your mode of transportation. There are limitations and restrictions that your doctor may need to inform you about. Your doctor can also assess whether you are healthy enough to undergo the mental and physical stresses of traveling.

Traveling By Air

When traveling by plane, even people with lung disease who don't necessarily use oxygen at home may require in-flight oxygen because the air pressure in an airplane cabin is lower during flight than on the ground. However, before you can travel by air, you will need your doctor's approval.

The airline will need information about your requirement for oxygen. The airline's medical department will then evaluate your needs and determine if and how they can accommodate you. If they can accommodate you, they will provide the oxygen and any other equipment you may need.

Airlines will not allow you to transport your own oxygen, however some will allow you to transport empty cylinders. Check with the airline prior to traveling if you wish to transport an empty tank.

Airlines will not provide on-ground oxygen and equipment. Therefore, you may want to try to get a direct flight or you will have to arrange for oxygen rental between your flights.

Traveling By Land

Tell you doctor about any altitude changes you may encounter during your trip. Your flow rate prescription may need to be altered.

When traveling by car, be sure to safely transport and store your oxygen tank. Keep it away from heat and flame and do not store it in the trunk where it may get hot. Keep in mind that your oxygen tank releases small amounts of gas periodically, so you should keep a window cracked.

If you will be traveling by bus or train, check with the bus or train company to see if they have any rules about carrying oxygen on board. Also, make sure your equipment can be used independently of the train's electrical power.

Traveling By Sea

Check with the cruise line about their oxygen policy. Some cruise lines will provide supplemental oxygen. If not, you will need to arrange for refills at ports of call or your oxygen supplier may be able to provide you with an oxygen conserving device.

International Travel

Be sure to have the right electrical conversion adapters for your respiratory equipment. You may also need metric threads for liquid oxygen adapters.

Article provided by About.Com(Lung Disease)

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