Inside Out (Summer 2008)

Ostomy Travel Tips

Your stoma should NOT prevent you from traveling, but pay attention to these points to avoid problems:

Make note of the size, name, order number and manufacturer of your supplier and the supplier's phone number. Do research in advance and have contacts of places where your supplies will be available in other cities/countries. It may become necessary to make a purchase while you are away.
Colostomates: you may like to order some drainable bags which can make coping with diarrhea a little easier
Two piece users - check that the bag and flange are the same size and fit together properly
When you book your flight ask for an aisle seat near the washroom
To counter dehydration (and jet lag) drink a glass or water or fruit juice every hour

Warm temperatures and sport's activities reduce the wearing time of your appliance. Take enough supplies with you! Pack twice as much as you would normally use Spread it out into two pieces of luggage with the most required material in your carry on
For easier packing you can take your supplies out of the box - as long as they are not convexity products
Take disposal bags for used appliances
Pack wipes, tissues, scissors, tape, pouch deodorant, any medicines you need - properly labeled, and, if it would make you feel more confident when staying away from home take a plastic sheet to protect the mattress
A small travel kit is also useful for short trips in the car or to the shops
Be careful with unusual food, trying small pieces first and chewing well.