Hello everyone,
I don’t believe I have read any threads that specifically talked about the logistics of airplane travel with the NxStage machine. I am scheduling my first flight, and it has proven to be challenging.
- The box that is provided by NxStage will not fit in my car. I am going to have to bungee the box in the trunk and then assemble the machine in the box when I arrive at the airport.
2.) Finding a transport company that can transport the machine (oversized and overweight) to/from the hotel seems almost impossible. I have so far found one company that can transport it for $80 each way.
So far my costs have been: $100/ each way for airline oversized baggage.
plus possibly another $200 (rounded up) for transport to/from the hotel.
I did not have much luck with any airline having pity on me and waiving the fee. $400 total and climbing…
Yikes. I am not renting a car, so that isn’t a transport option. Do any of my dialysis friend have suggestions or helpful hints on how to transport the machine?
What about a scale? Did anyone bring one from home? I am looking into if there is one at the hotel.
Other lessons I have learned:
- I also learned that ancillary supplies should be shipped at least a week ahead of time because of the cost, but some hotels will not accept packages more than a day before arrival, so planning is a key aspect. I now will have to transport these items in my suitcase. Ugh, saline is heavy (collectively!).
- The Skycap curbside are extremely helpful, and necessary so I don’t have to lug my baby through the terminal.
I look forward to thoughts, comments and suggestions!!