Did You Know? 7 Surprising Facts About Portable Oxygen

Introduction

Living with a respiratory condition doesn’t have to mean staying home or giving up the activities you love. Portable oxygen therapy has come a long way—devices are now smaller, quieter, smarter, and easier to use than ever before. But there’s still a lot that most people don’t know about how these devices work or how they can change your life.

In this post, we’ll share seven surprising facts about portable oxygen, using the Inogen One G5 as an example of how modern technology can help you breathe better—and live better.

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1. You don’t have to choose between mobility and oxygen therapy

Did you know many patients believe they need to stay tethered to a stationary concentrator or carry heavy oxygen cylinders to get the oxygen they need?

The truth is, devices like the Inogen G5 weigh just 4.7 lbs and can run for up to 13 hours on a single battery. That means more freedom to shop, travel, go for walks, or simply leave the house without worrying about running out of oxygen.

2. Some portable oxygen devices are FAA-approved for air travel

Love to travel but feel grounded by your oxygen needs? You’re not alone. Fortunately, the Inogen G5 is FAA-approved, which means you can bring it on planes. All you need to do is inform your airline in advance and bring enough battery power for the duration of your flight.

Pro tip: We recommend packing one extra battery than you think you need—just in case of delays.

3. Pulse dose delivery works with your breathing pattern—even while you sleep (in some cases)

Not all portable oxygen is created equal. Pulse dose devices deliver oxygen only when you inhale, helping to preserve battery life and reduce device weight. The Inogen G5 features Intelligent Delivery Technology, which can detect even shallow breaths, including during sleep for some patients.*

Still, some individuals may require continuous flow oxygen overnight. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine what’s best for you.

4. You can try before you buy—rentals are available

Did you know that at Respocare, you don’t have to commit to a purchase right away?

Many patients choose to rent the Inogen G5 first to see how it fits into their daily routine. Whether you need it short-term (for travel or recovery) or as a trial before purchasing, rental gives you flexibility without the pressure.

5. Compliance with oxygen therapy is key to staying out of the hospital

Oxygen isn’t just about comfort—it’s about preventing complications. A study published in Respiratory Medicine found that poor adherence to oxygen therapy significantly increases the risk of hospital readmissions in patients with COPD.*

Portable oxygen devices like the Inogen G5 can make it easier to follow your oxygen prescription because they’re designed to support your lifestyle, not restrict it.

6. They’re quieter than you think

Many people worry that portable oxygen devices will be noisy or attract unwanted attention. In reality, the Inogen G5 operates at under 40 decibels—about the volume of a quiet conversation. You can use it in a restaurant, during a movie, or even while talking on the phone without disruption.

7. Some models come with smartphone apps for added control

The Inogen G5 connects with the Inogen Connect app, which allows users (and caregivers) to monitor battery life, oxygen settings, and maintenance reminders—all from a smartphone. This adds an extra layer of peace of mind for patients who want more independence and for loved ones who want to stay informed.

Final Thoughts: Portable Oxygen Is About More Than Oxygen

Portable oxygen isn’t just a medical device—it’s a lifeline to mobility, independence, and peace of mind. Whether you're managing COPD, ILD, or another chronic lung condition, the Inogen G5 offers a lightweight, travel-friendly solution that makes oxygen therapy easier to follow and easier to live with.

At Respocare, we’re here to help you choose the right solution—whether that means renting for a few weeks or investing in long-term support. We’re here for every breath of the journey.