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Anyone experience using the Travel Cpap devices; Z1 or Transcend

Rajy62

Active Member
Time of past OR future Camino
Frances 2013, Norte/primitivo 2014, vdlp (2015)
I have been using the Resmed S9 APAP (Automatic CPAP) on my Caminos. It weighs about 5 Ibs. Hunting for a lightweight device and came across 1) Z1 Auto CPAP 10 oz $875 and 2) Transcend auto cpap with ezex, $530. Both weighing less than a ib without the charger or battery pack.

Anyone has experience using these or any other similar lightweight models.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
I have been using the Resmed S9 APAP (Automatic CPAP) on my Caminos. It weighs about 5 Ibs. Hunting for a lightweight device and came across 1) Z1 Auto CPAP 10 oz $875 and 2) Transcend auto cpap with ezex, $530. Both weighing less than a ib without the charger or battery pack.

Anyone has experience using these or any other similar lightweight models.

Hi Rajy62,

This is the official account for Transcend mini CPAP. Here is a real user review of the Transcend CPAP and accessories: http://bit.ly/1b3e1XK. You can get feedback from other CPAP users at cpaptalk.com. Also, please feel free to contact us directly with any questions you might have regarding Transcend: 877-621-9626 or info@somnetics.com.

Hope this helps!
-Transcend mini CPAP
 
Have not pulled the trigger yet but I'm looking seriously at the Z1. The non-auto model. I use the same model Resmed you use but had mine reprogrammed to a steady 12lbs of pressure and I sleep much better than when it is in the automatic mode. But that is just me. So for me I'm considering the $575 model.

For travel purposes I could not imagine bringing the Transcend humidification system. I have no clue if the Z1 sponge gizmo actually works to moderate humidification but for travel there is no way I'd backpack with the Trancend system.
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
Have not pulled the trigger yet but I'm looking seriously at the Z1. The non-auto model. I use the same model Resmed you use but had mine reprogrammed to a steady 12lbs of pressure and I sleep much better than when it is in the automatic mode. But that is just me. So for me I'm considering the $575 model.

For travel purposes I could not imagine bringing the Transcend humidification system. I have no clue if the Z1 sponge gizmo actually works to moderate humidification but for travel there is no way I'd backpack with the Trancend system.
I am hesitating also because while the weight may be light these lack in performance. Most of the reviews i read confirm that the Z1 has noise issues. Apparently, a fix is going into production this month. At the $875 prize point, if the Z1 does not perform as good as my S9 it is a rip off. The Transcend, a bit cheaper, seems to be more stable, but still noisier than our Resmed. Will i like these without the humidifier?

I have been in touch with my apnea clinic about this. And they pointed out to me that the S9 model i have can be used without the humidifier at about 3 ibs, it becomes a travel model just like Z1/Transcend.

So, for me these travel versions need more work. May be ok for short trip. But for Camino 6 wks to two months i am not sure it will be enough.

Of the two, Z1 is attractive if it can function like the S9. So, i am not sure when you are walking, you might want to wait till there is a fix for the noise on the Z1. There is also a 21 day trial offer on the Trancend.
 
I am hesitating also because while the weight may be light these lack in performance. Most of the reviews i read confirm that the Z1 has noise issues. Apparently, a fix is going into production this month. At the $875 prize point, if the Z1 does not perform as good as my S9 it is a rip off. The Transcend, a bit cheaper, seems to be more stable, but still noisier than our Resmed. Will i like these without the humidifier?

I have been in touch with my apnea clinic about this. And they pointed out to me that the S9 model i have can be used without the humidifier at about 3 ibs, it becomes a travel model just like Z1/Transcend.

So, for me these travel versions need more work. May be ok for short trip. But for Camino 6 wks to two months i am not sure it will be enough.

Of the two, Z1 is attractive if it can function like the S9. So, i am not sure when you are walking, you might want to wait till there is a fix for the noise on the Z1. There is also a 21 day trial offer on the Trancend.

I use an elite 11 system . Last year I went without the humidifier in an effort to save a few ounces of weight. I felt miserable for the entire trip, my throat dry every morning. Next time I'll leave my extra pair underwear at home but take the humidifier.
Good luck
 
I use an elite 11 system . Last year I went without the humidifier in an effort to save a few ounces of weight. I felt miserable for the entire trip, my throat dry every morning. Next time I'll leave my extra pair underwear at home but take the humidifier.
Good luck
Thank you for confirming my suspicion. Whenever my humidifier runs out of water, i wake up with a dry nasal pathway. The other issue i have with these travel cpap is that its noise can actually affect other persons in the room. And i don't want to do that to fellow pilgrims. My current system is so quiet even the person next to me does not hear much.

My plan B is going ultralite, changing all the heavy items (pack, sleeping bag etc) and eliminating the "nice to have"s, so that i can carry my complete system (-2kg).
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
I have a Transcend portable CPAP by Somnetics. I plan to use it w/o humidifier. I use a nasal spray. Any idea if I will need a battery some nights if no plug in at the albergues? How long of an extension cord?
 
I have a Transcend portable CPAP by Somnetics. I plan to use it w/o humidifier. I use a nasal spray. Any idea if I will need a battery some nights if no plug in at the albergues? How long of an extension cord?
I have used mine without a battery on the Frances, Norte and part of the vdlp. My cpap came with a 3 meter cord. I don't think you need to worry about battery. I had trouble in the city once. Because the apt was programmed to shut off electricity when no movement like those automatic lights. But on the Camino i did not have any issues.
 
I am still trying to decide between the Transcend and the Z1 machines. I see a lot of reviews about the Z1 machine being loud with an annoying hum but the factory specs show it as quieter than the Transcend. I am not sure if those Z1 machines have had the annoying noise 'fix' from the factory or if they were older machines. Both units are SMALL compared to regualr CPAP/APAP machines, both are LIGHT compared to regular machines.

As for humidification, both machines can use a little in-line sponge gizmo that is supposed to help keep throats/nasal cavities from drying out too badly. I have not used one, I'm tempted to buy one and see if I can use it with my current machine at night (obviously WITHOUT the humidification system attached). If that works then taking my home unit would still be larger and heavier than either of the 2 'travel' units but it might still be practical to do so?

Transcend:
Larger/heavier; uses standard 6' hose; power cord comes with international plug adapters​
Z1:
Smaller/lighter; uses shorter 4' hose; uses special smaller diameter hose; requires plug adapters​

Seems to me I will be carrying a larger backpack just to accomidate the machine/hose/mask. I figure with the Z1 machine/hose/etc that I will be carrying an extra 2 pounds and with the Transcend machine I will be carrying an extra 2.3 pounds.

In real terms both machines are roughly the size of pop can, weigh just under 1# and the hose/mask combo is going to take up more space than the machine. So the way I figure it the pack required for a compact travel CPAP machine is going to be about 10 Liters larger in capacity to carry the machine/hose/mask/power.

Now in real terms my home machine is roughly 2 times the size of either of these units, probably weighs (didn't weigh it) twice as much, so maybe 2#, but the hose/mask take exactly the same space, weigh exactly the same, and the power unit is probably the same size/weight. So a home unit, without humidifier, but with an in-line sponge gizmo, might actually be practical???
 
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€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
BTW, I also researched these lightweights and decided to stick with my regular cpap mainly for a) humidifier b) noise which is real. I don't think they have invented a quieter motor for these compacts yet. The noise matters for others in the alberque and the humidifier matters for me for such a long trip. If I go for short trips and stay in hotels then these would be perfect. Just my 2 cents.
 
BTW, I also researched these lightweights and decided to stick with my regular cpap mainly for a) humidifier b) noise which is real. I don't think they have invented a quieter motor for these compacts yet. The noise matters for others in the alberque and the humidifier matters for me for such a long trip. If I go for short trips and stay in hotels then these would be perfect. Just my 2 cents.
Your Camino is probably over by now. I'd like to know which of those CPAP machines you ended up taking and how it worked out for you. I had a Z1 but was completely unsatisfied with it and sent it back and I'm curious about the Transcend.
 
Your Camino is probably over by now. I'd like to know which of those CPAP machines you ended up taking and how it worked out for you. I had a Z1 but was completely unsatisfied with it and sent it back and I'm curious about the Transcend.
Saiprem: I did the Camino François route from St. Jean to Santiago. I took my Transcend but no humidifier.
I used a nasal spray each day and I never got a nosebleed.
I also took the Transcend P4 "overnight" (7 hour?) battery. I used the battery twice.
I only had one complaint on the sound of my CPAP from other pilgrims.
In conclusion, I was glad I had my CPAP even though the extra weight was a small burden.
Blessings on your journey!
Brave Dave
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
Saiprem: I did the Camino François route from St. Jean to Santiago. I took my Transcend but no humidifier.
I used a nasal spray each day and I never got a nosebleed.
I also took the Transcend P4 "overnight" (7 hour?) battery. I used the battery twice.
I only had one complaint on the sound of my CPAP from other pilgrims.
In conclusion, I was glad I had my CPAP even though the extra weight was a small burden.
Blessings on your journey!
Brave Dave

Thank you Brave Dave. I'll probably get one. That was the Transcend review I've been waiting for. Buen Camino!
 
Saiprem: I did the Camino François route from St. Jean to Santiago. I took my Transcend but no humidifier.
I used a nasal spray each day and I never got a nosebleed.
I also took the Transcend P4 "overnight" (7 hour?) battery. I used the battery twice.
I only had one complaint on the sound of my CPAP from other pilgrims.
In conclusion, I was glad I had my CPAP even though the extra weight was a small burden.
Blessings on your journey!
Brave Dave
Curius, what is the total weight of the Transcend + charger + battery pack?
 
Rajy62,
My husband has the Transcend and the charger and battery pack. We bought it for the camino, but he has used it several times this year for camping and traveling. He has the longer life battery. I can tell you it is a miracle for tent camping--very quiet. He has found and now uses the filter/moisture adapters so he does not need the water reservoir. He will not take the battery on the camino as it adds weight and takes a full 8 hours to charge each day. CPAP, hose, and charger weigh about 3 pounds in the case, so I am sure it would be somewhat less if transferred it to a lightweight stuff sack. It comes with adapters for various configurations around the world. He purchased a "reconditioned" one from a company since he knew he would only use it for traveling and it was only $240 through SecondwindCPAP.com. He checked today and they have a factory refurbished for $280-$350 depending on whether you need the auto setting or not. They also sell Z1 used models for $375, but they are temporarily sold out. The battery, car charger, and filter/moisture adapters were extra and he bought them later through our regular CPAP supplier here in town. He keeps the "regular" heavy CPAP here at home.
Good luck!
Janet
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
Rajy62,
My husband has the Transcend and the charger and battery pack. We bought it for the camino, but he has used it several times this year for camping and traveling. He has the longer life battery. I can tell you it is a miracle for tent camping--very quiet. He has found and now uses the filter/moisture adapters so he does not need the water reservoir. He will not take the battery on the camino as it adds weight and takes a full 8 hours to charge each day. CPAP, hose, and charger weigh about 3 pounds in the case, so I am sure it would be somewhat less if transferred it to a lightweight stuff sack. It comes with adapters for various configurations around the world. He purchased a "reconditioned" one from a company since he knew he would only use it for traveling and it was only $240 through SecondwindCPAP.com. He checked today and they have a factory refurbished for $280-$350 depending on whether you need the auto setting or not. They also sell Z1 used models for $375, but they are temporarily sold out. The battery, car charger, and filter/moisture adapters were extra and he bought them later through our regular CPAP supplier here in town. He keeps the "regular" heavy CPAP here at home.
Good luck!
Janet
Janet,
Good to have a positive endorsement on Transcend. I am going to have to try the nasal spray at home before i take it on a long (30-40 day) walk. Good suggestion on getting refurbished unit also.

I ended up taking my regular cpap (Resmed 9) on two caminos. Never needed a battery, My cpap clinic convinced me that my regular cpap could be used withoud the humidifier and the weight then be reduced to 3.5 ibs, very close to a portable device with charger + battery etc.

I sure will pick up a Transcend and try it out.
 
Janet,
Good to have a positive endorsement on Transcend. I am going to have to try the nasal spray at home before i take it on a long (30-40 day) walk. Good suggestion on getting refurbished unit also.

I ended up taking my regular cpap (Resmed 9) on two caminos. Never needed a battery, My cpap clinic convinced me that my regular cpap could be used withoud the humidifier and the weight then be reduced to 3.5 ibs, very close to a portable device with charger + battery etc.

I sure will pick up a Transcend and try it out.

Yes, the adapters for humidity are from Human Design Medical. They fit on the Transcend and you can buy them from Amazon in packs of 10. Each filter lasts about a week. Phil keeps it in a plastic ziplock sandwich bag between uses so it will not draw humidity. This was much better than the nasal spray although you would have to carry several filters along with you on the camino depending on the planned length of your journey. For the comfort he plans to do that. He is also considering some kind of velcro loop or other arrangement for the actual machine so he can attach it to a bedpost. It is so light that pulls off the bedside table easily if you roll around much.
 
Just ordered my Z1 CPAP made by Human Design Medical. Honestly I struggled with this and the price, especially considering that a re-furbished Transcend unit can be had at roughly 1/2 the price. But in a small daypack I honestly thought the smaller size and lower weight were important. I used a full size CPAP machine on a recent hike across England and will never carry that much weight again.

Our Camino doesn't start until June '16 and the Z1 is scheduled to arrive next week. That gives me enough time to test it out a few nights at home before we go.
 
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I traveled with the Z1 for a while and was so dissatisfied with it that left it behind at one stop and eventually sent it back to where I bought it. The Transcend sounded much better to me but due to space (the cpap, hose, mask, and power supply) I gave up on the idea of cpac and am just going to use a dental insert for my sleep apnea on my next Camino, which starts next week.
 
I traveled with the Z1 for a while and was so dissatisfied with it that left it behind at one stop and eventually sent it back to where I bought it. The Transcend sounded much better to me but due to space (the cpap, hose, mask, and power supply) I gave up on the idea of cpac and am just going to use a dental insert for my sleep apnea on my next Camino, which starts next week.
I've heard horrible things about the early Z1 units and am hoping they have fixed the problems.

A dental insert is not an option for me. My apnea is way to severe for trying to do without a CPAP.
 
God bless you from me and everyone else who might be exposed to your snoring. We all appreciate your attempts to control it and, of course, you will be much better rested with a cpap machine.
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
Phil uses his Transcend for all travels now so it has been a good investment. He's weighed his pack and with cpap, meds, and other regular pilgrim items at 16 pounds now which I think is pretty good. My pack weighs 12 pounds so the additional materials for health that he needs do add weight, but will make the journey possible and still not be too heavy.
 
Yes, the adapters for humidity are from Human Design Medical. They fit on the Transcend and you can buy them from Amazon in packs of 10. Each filter lasts about a week. Phil keeps it in a plastic ziplock sandwich bag between uses so it will not draw humidity. This was much better than the nasal spray although you would have to carry several filters along with you on the camino depending on the planned length of your journey. For the comfort he plans to do that. He is also considering some kind of velcro loop or other arrangement for the actual machine so he can attach it to a bedpost. It is so light that pulls off the bedside table easily if you roll around much.
I used my Transcend on all my Caminos. If you let it sit inside its carry bag (left open and on the bed rather than a chair or bedside table) it doesn't fall off the bed.

Only one person complained when I forgot to explain about the machine before bedtime. It helps to choose a noisy dorm, where the snoring of other pilgrims drown out the quiet whirr of a cpap. The machine next to my head is like "white noise" so other people snoring never bothered me.
 
I used my Transcend on all my Caminos. If you let it sit inside its carry bag (left open and on the bed rather than a chair or bedside table) it doesn't fall off the bed.

Only one person complained when I forgot to explain about the machine before bedtime. It helps to choose a noisy dorm, where the snoring of other pilgrims drown out the quiet whirr of a cpap. The machine next to my head is like "white noise" so other people snoring never bothered me.
I used my Z1 and never got a single noise complaint from anyone EXCEPT MY WIFE. On the first night we had a bunk in an alcove of a dorm, there were 4 of us in the alcove. I honestly believe the Z1, in that confined space, was audible enough to cause a minor distraction. In a regular dorm situation it was a non-issue, I think people preferred its whirring fan to the thunderous ruckus of snoring.

I find that the humidity adapters work very well for me. In fact I prefer them to my heated water bath humidifier that sits on my nightstand with my home CPAP machine. Kept in a Ziplock they seem to last for 7 to 14 days, depending upon the relative humidity of where I am using them.
 
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