EasyJet passengers with particular medical conditions may be permitted to bring an additional bag on board for their requirements, on top of their standard cabin bag allowance. The carrier outlines the policy on its website and states customers must notify EasyJet‘s Special Assistance Team no less than 48 hours prior to their flight.

EasyJet allows travellers to carry an extra bag on board for essential medical equipment free of charge, subject to approval and arrangement at least two days beforehand. Size limitations apply, however, as the medical equipment bag must measure no more than 56 x 45 x 25 cm.

The airline states: “Portable medical equipment can be brought on board in addition to your cabin bag allowance. Portable medical devices must be no larger than 56 x 45 x 25 cm, otherwise they will have to travel in the hold.” Such equipment includes small portable medical devices, including:

• CPAP machines
• TENS machines
• Nebulisers
• Portable dialysis machines

The airline states: “This may be carried in addition to your cabin bag allowance, provided that it’s no larger than 56 x 45 x 25 cm and that you have informed our Special Assistance Team, at least 48 hours before your flight, that you require an additional medical bag for your journey. Non-essential medical equipment which exceeds your cabin-bag allowance will be charged in line with our baggage policy and may need to be placed in the hold.”

It adds: “If you need to bring several medical devices or a large piece of medical equipment, please contact our Special Assistance team at least 48 hours before your flight so that they can advise you.”

Passengers are also permitted to bring up to two mobility aids, such as wheelchairs and walkers, which can be carried free of charge. Failure to register medical equipment in advance may result in standard baggage charges being applied should it exceed your permitted cabin bag allowance, reports the Mirror.

The airline says: “If you pack medicines in your hold luggage, we do not require a letter from your healthcare practitioner. However, we do advise you to pack your medication in your hand luggage where possible, especially if it is medication that you may need to take during the flight.”

What is a CPAP machine, and who needs it?

CPAP machines are primarily used by those diagnosed with sleep apnoea to help keep their airways open during sleep. In some cases, sleep apnoea can be managed through lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, giving up smoking and reducing alcohol intake. However, many sufferers still require a CPAP machine. Should you need one, the NHS will provide it free of charge.

According to the NHS, a CPAP machine gently pumps air into a mask worn over your mouth or nose while you sleep. It can help improve your breathing during sleep by preventing your airways from narrowing excessively, enhance the quality of your sleep, help you feel less fatigued, and lower the risk of complications associated with sleep apnoea, such as high blood pressure.

Left untreated, sleep apnoea can give rise to further health issues, including:

• high blood pressure
• a higher chance of having a stroke
• type 2 diabetes
• heart disease
• depression or mood changes
• a higher chance of having a serious accident caused by tiredness, such as a car accident
• difficulty concentrating at work or school

What is a TENS machine, and who needs it?

TENS, which stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, is a technique employed to deliver temporary pain relief. A TENS device transmits a gentle electrical current to your nerves, which can assist in reducing discomfort.

The NHS states TENS can prove effective for numerous forms of pain, whether short-term or chronic. This encompasses pain from period cramps, labour during childbirth, sporting injuries, and ailments such as arthritis or endometriosis.

It is thought to function by encouraging your body to release natural pain relievers called endorphins and by preventing pain signals from your nerves from reaching your brain. “If you want to try TENS for pain relief, it’s a good idea to check with a GP or other healthcare professional first, to make sure TENS is safe for you,” the NHS advises.

What is a nebuliser, and who requires it?

A nebuliser is a medical device that converts liquid medication into a fine mist, which individuals inhale through a mouthpiece or mask. It’s utilised by those with severe asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, or anyone unable to use handheld inhalers to assist with respiratory difficulties.

The NHS says: “A nebuliser can help to loosen phlegm (mucus), making it easier to cough up. This can help clear your airway and may make the delivery of radiotherapy treatment more comfortable.”

What is a portable dialysis machine, and who requires it?

A portable dialysis machine available on the NHS is a compact, home-use haemodialysis device — such as the NxStage System One — that enables patients to manage kidney failure from the comfort of their own home, or even while travelling, rather than being required to attend hospital. The device affords patients greater independence and flexibility, giving them the freedom to opt for daily, gentler, or overnight treatment. The NHS provides full training and all necessary equipment completely free of charge.