The 3 Best Continuous-Flow Portable Oxygen Concentrators for Holiday Travel
Flights booked? Gifts packed? Now ask yourself one question: where will your oxygen come from tonight? If your doctor prescribes continuous flow, a small pulse-only unit may not be enough. Holiday units and shipping time are limited, so read this guide and call us early.
What is continuous flow oxygen?
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Continuous flow
A steady stream of oxygen during inhalation and exhalation, measured in liters per minute (LPM).
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Pulse/ demand
Delivers a measured dose when a breath is detected. Pulse settings are not LPM.
Why are these POCs larger?
Continuous delivery generally requires greater oxygen-production capacity, a larger compressor and more cooling than a small pulse-only unit
Quick comparison
| Oxlife Liberty 2 by O2 Concepts | Oxlife Independence by O2 Concepts | Zen-O by GCE Healthcare | |
| Continuous flow | 0.5-2 LPM | 0.5-3 LPM | 0.5-2 LPM |
| Pulse/demand | Settings 1-10 | Settings 0.5-6 | Settings 1-6 |
| Weight | About 7.5 lb with one battery | 16.7 lb device; batteries and cart add weight |
About 10.25 lb with one battery, before bag and cart |
| Best for | Compact, wearable | 24/7 continuous flow, wheels | Rolling cart, up to 2 LPM |
| SALE PRICE | $2,600 | $2,800 | $2,900 |
Prescription required. Sale prices subject to availability.
1. Oxlife Liberty 2 by O2 Concepts: compact continuous flow up to 2 LPM
Who may like it:
A compact option for trips when prescribed nighttime continuous flow is 2 LPM or less. May also suit pediatric patients when prescribed, assessed and monitored by their care team.
- Continuous flow: 0.5-2 LPM
- Pulse/demand: settings 1-10
- Weight: about 7.5 lb with one battery
- Design: compact and wearable
2. Oxlife Independence by O2 Concepts: continuous flow up to 3 LPM
Who may like it:
A popular choice with our customers who are prescribed continuous-flow oxygen 24/7. Use on AC power at your destination, with battery power available for outings and travel.
- Continuous flow: 0.5-3 LPM
- Pulse/demand: settings 0.5-6
- Weight: 16.7 lb device; batteries and cart add
- Mobility: rolling wheels and pull handle
3. Zen-O by GCE Healthcare: continuous flow up to 2 LPM 
Who may like it:
An option for travel when you need up to 2 LPM of prescribed continuous flow and prefer a rolling cart.
- Continuous flow: 0.5-2 LPM
- Pulse/demand: settings 1-6
- Weight: about 10.25 lb with one battery
- Mobility: carry bag and pull cart
How to choose: 5 simple questions
- What flow does your prescription list for sleep, activity and flying?
- How much will you carry or roll? (7.5 lb, 10.25 lb or 16.7 lb)
- Are you a light sleeper? Continuous flow can be louder.
- How long will you be away from an outlet? Plan batteries.
- Do you prefer wearing it or rolling it on wheels or a cart?
Flying with a continuous-flow POC
- All three meet FAA acceptance requirements for onboard use.
- Confirm your airline's notification, paperwork and battery rules.
- Plan batteries for at least 150% of the expected maximum flight duration, plus connections.
- Do not rely on aircraft outlets. Your prescription comes first.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I fly with a continuous-flow portable oxygen concentrator?
All three meet FAA acceptance requirements for onboard use. Confirm your airline's notification, paperwork and battery rules, and plan batteries for at least 150% of the expected maximum flight duration.
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Is a pulse setting the same as LPM?
No. A pulse setting of 6 does not mean 6 LPM continuous, and pulse settings vary by model.
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Which one is the lightest?
The Oxlife Liberty 2 is about 7.5 lb with one battery. The Zen-O is about 10.25 lb with one battery, before the bag and cart. The Oxlife Independence is 16.7 lb for the device; batteries and cart add weight.
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Which one lists the longest warranty?
The Oxlife Independence has a 5-year limited concentrator warranty and 1 year on batteries and accessories. Ask us for complete warranty terms on the others.
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Do I need a prescription?
Yes. Equipment, modes and settings must meet your prescribed oxygen needs
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Not sure which one fits your trip?
Tell us your prescription, travel dates and nighttime routine. We can help you compare equipment, plan batteries and organize airline paperwork. Units and shipping time are limited this holiday season, so CALL 800-375-6060 today.
