I have been using a cpap for about 12 years now. Prior to being diagnosed, my snoring was horrible. I struggled to stay awake all day (and on my drive home from work) and fell asleep minutes after sitting on the couch after work. Looking back it is easy to see the mood swings, memory issues, etc. At the time I didn't really notice. When I finally went for a sleep study, I was diagnosed with extremely severe sleep apnea. I stopped breathing 82 times per hour on average. My blood oxygen dropped into the 70s at times. The nurse that monitored my sleep said it was the most uncomfortable night of sleep she ever watched. I was not obese.
Using a cpap device is not optional for me. I honestly think I might be dead by now (I am 50) if didn't get diagnosed. On the rare occasion that I fall asleep without using my cpap, I wake up feeling like someone beat me up in my sleep. I don't know how I went so long without it.
Strapping yourself to a cpap machine sucks, but you get used to it and it can make a huge difference. I have my battery back up and my camping setup. It goes with me no matter where I am staying.