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Erin D. VAD Coordinator

Packing HMII LVAD equipment for air travel

Wed, 10/26/2011 - 5:28PM

What are patients using to pack their Power Modules, Battery Charger and batteries to fly?

12099 reads
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Richard O.

Wed, 10/26/2011 - 8:34PM

I have been using a Eddie Bauer carry on luggage with wheels where all of the equipment fits in the luggage tightly but does. It is heavy so when you have to put it in the overhead bin ask for some help! I have flown several times and for me the important thing is to ask for a wheel chair which expedites your trip and does not wear you out. I keep my meds in the same bag at least a couple days worth and maybe a extra shirt. If you take your time ask for a wheelchair once you check in it will go much smoother. Glenn

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Melody T.

Tue, 11/01/2011 - 11:03AM

We have two carry on bags one for the power module and one for the batteries and charger. Since they are in two bags, it makes it easier to lift up into the overhead bin. Glenn is right, always ask for a wheel chair it is so much easier getting through security with someone assisting you. Also, you can be one of the first people to board the plane which makes it easier to get everything in the overhead bins. Melody & Jerry

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Roseanne S.

Sun, 04/22/2018 - 4:17PM
Has anyone ever traveled to Aruba with an Lvad?
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Glen R.

Sat, 05/05/2018 - 9:20AM
We have not gone to Aruba yet. We have taken a cruise to Cozumel on a Carnival ship. We r getting ready to fly to Seattle to cruise to Alaska. We have gone to our airport in Little Rock and paid to be prescreened to travel with his medical supplies. The Dr. has written a letter for us to present to the people who screens us at the airport. We bought us a small check on suitcase to pack all of his supplies . I have called Amrican Airlines to let them know we would be flying. So just make sure you u let the airline know that u r flying with them and that u have an LVAD. Mt husband has a Heart Mate Three . It will be a year this month. His Dr. also will be checking him one more time before we leave. So happy travels to u. Just make sure that you don't forget anything.
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Roseanne S.

Sun, 05/13/2018 - 1:47PM
Thank you! We have asked our LVAD coordinator to check into Aruba for us. I also can't seem to find one in Las Vegas. These are our two favorite vacation spots so we are hoping we can still be able to go there. Looks like Ft. Lauderdale has a few so we are planning to go there in the winter.
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Carol D.

Mon, 05/14/2018 - 3:29PM
Never check your LVAD Equipment. It must go in Carry on Bags and brought onboard, with your driveline sterile kits and your meds.
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Susan P.

Wed, 03/06/2019 - 9:03PM

 I'm a single 73 year old woman who is flying from Raleigh, NC to Champaign, IL.  I have a carry-on bag that will hold all my equipment and batteries.  The problem is it won't fit under the seat and is too heavy to lift it over my head for the bin.  I have thought about dividing it between two suitcases but I don't know how I would juggle 2 bags.  I called American Airlines for assistance and they suggested I  ask a fellow traveler; the steward or stewardess can't lift it for me.

I would appreciate any and all suggestions.

 

 

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Cindy R.

Thu, 03/07/2019 - 11:43AM
I have flown many times with my LVAD. I keep the battery charger and 4 batteries intact, as a carryon. I have the power module in a carryon bag. It is difficult to carry everything with you, but it is something that must be done. People are good and you will be helped, so don't be afraid to ask. Security will always take longer, so be prepared, and give yourself plenty of time to get to your gate. I always make sure my INR is in range before flying. Happy Travels!