Blog Traveling With an Ostomy: get the right when you need one

Having an ostomy can drastically alter your daily routine, but that shouldn't stop you from experiencing the world. No matter what kind of ostomy you have—colostomy, ileostomy, or urostomy—you can still enjoy the activities you love, including excursions abroad.

Ostomies shouldn't prevent you from traveling, whether to see family or friends or take a break from your busy schedule. You may put your worries about your ostomy supplies and your trip aside when you give yourself plenty of lead time and pack plenty of spare supplies. Here are the top hints for starting your first trip using an ostomy.

Leaving Preparations with an ostomy 

Preparation is the key to having a good time on your trip. Making sure you've planned for every eventuality before you leave can help you relax and enjoy your trip more. Your focus can shift away from your ostomy and onto the world around you. The following are examples of excellent pre-trip planning:

1. Make a List of What to Take

Create a detailed list of what you need to bring before packing. Start this process early so you can add items as you remember them. In addition to the obvious things like ostomy bags and pouches, skin barriers and skin care products, ostomy paste, stoma powder, extra seals, barrier film wipes, adhesive remover, pouch cleaner, odor management products, ostomy scissors, ostomy belts, a small mirror, medications, gauze, sterile wipes, hand sanitizer, disposable bags, gloves, toilet paper, and hand wipes are all must.

Ensure you have enough ostomy supplies to last the duration of your vacation, twice the amount you normally use in a day. When traveling to a foreign nation, it's best to pack more than you think you'll need.

2. Make Sure You Need a Carry-on

If you have an ostomy, you should bring your supplies in a carry-on bag whenever you fly. If all of your necessities are in your checked bags and they are lost or delayed, you'll be in a tough spot. If you must travel with ostomy supplies, we advise putting at least half of them in your carry-on and the rest in your checked bags. Stick to the 3-1-1 liquid rule, which states that a quart-sized transparent bag containing liquid goods, gels, creams, and aerosols can pass through security as long as each item weighs 3.4 ounces or less. Ostomy scissors must be no longer than four inches to be checked in as carry-on luggage.

3. Pre-Cut Barriers

Pre-cutting, all of your skin barriers is a good idea if your ostomy scissors are longer than 4 inches or if you want to make switching out your pouch easier while you're on the road. Only those with customized barriers can use this. It isn't required but will facilitate pouching in challenging circumstances.

4. It's a Good Idea to Take Travel Insurance

Traditional insurance should cover you anywhere in the United States if you're merely traveling within the country, but you should still call your carrier to be sure. International trips require additional coverage in the form of travel insurance, which may be purchased before leaving home.

5. Buy a Travel Communication Card

The United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) has created a travel card for those who have to carry ostomy supplies with them at all times. This is useful information while going through security checks since it may prevent you from undergoing additional checks. If you want to avoid unnecessary hassle and maintain your privacy while traveling with an ostomy, show your ostomy travel card to a TSA agent in the security line.

6. Make a Contingency Plan

To avoid panic in an unexpected situation, it's a good idea to pack more supplies than you think you'll need. Find out who the best doctors are, where you're going, learn where to buy what you need, and have a backup plan ready in case of an emergency by gathering information in advance.

If you have any concerns or further questions, you should see a doctor before you depart. It is a good time to inquire about recommendations in various regions of the country. Even if you don't anticipate needing medical attention while away from home, it's good to know you have a dependable resource nearby.

How to Make the Most of Your Trip Despite Your Ostomy

It's time to get into a more normal routine once you've reached your final destination. You'll have a private space to put your belongings and a daily schedule. With proper planning, you may still enjoy your favorite activities when traveling with an ostomy. Consult your physician if you have concerns about participating in particular activities. Follow these guidelines if you want to make sure your ostomy is good for your vacation.

1. Research Bathroom Locations

When you get there, inquire about the closest restrooms with the front desk or a tour guide. It will help if you familiarise yourself with the location of the resort's public toilets in case of an unexpected necessity. If you want to have fun when you're out and about without having to worry about locating a bathroom, read up on the area before you leave the hotel.

2. Get in Shape for Water Fun

If you have an ostomy, you can still swim and enjoy water sports, but you may need to take some precautions to feel safe and secure. Because of the tight seal and empty pouch, your pouching system can withstand water. You can use barrier strips or an ostomy belt whenever needed, especially if it makes you more comfortable.

3. Stay Hydrated and Adhere to Your Diet

However, your digestive system may not appreciate your adventurous spirit while sampling new foods. We will only judge if you try some of the regional dishes. You should be aware that there may be unpleasant side effects. Stick to your regular diet and drink lots of water throughout the day if you play it safe.