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Travel With A Stoma

What you need to know about Travel with a stoma

If you would like more information about travel or any other Ostomy Lifestyle subject, call our Helpline on 0800 731 4264, you can also e-mail advice@ostomylifestyle.org. The following information can be downloaded as a pdf file.

Confidence

Now that you’ve had stoma surgery, you’re probably looking forward to taking a relaxing break. If you are feeling nervous about going away, build up to a longer trip by doing a few shorter breaks first. Many people find it reassuring to carry a mini-kit, containing a spare bag, disposal sack and wipes, with them in case they need to do an appliance change whilst out and about. Some people prefer to use disabled access toilets as there is more room for doing an appliance change and a hand basin beside the toilet. It is perfectly acceptable for people with stomas to use these facilities and keys to access them can be obtained from RADAR.
(see Resources below)

Appliances and medication

Many travellers find it beneficial to pack appliances in more than one piece of luggage. If you are travelling with others they may be able to carry some items for you and you might want to pack some appliances in your hand luggage for convenience and in case of articles going missing. Many people take precut appliances with them for ease.

Changes in water supply and eating habits might mean your stoma behaves slightly differently, so it is worth taking extra bags with you. For those who usually wear a closed bag, it might be useful to take some drainable bags in case of a tummy upset.

Take the details of your supplier and the appliances and medications you normally use, as in some circumstances supplies can be delivered abroad. It is often possible to source products locally too through hospitals or pharmacies. It may also be helpful to carry a copy of your prescription with you in case of customs queries or in the event that you need to obtain further supplies.

Stoma adhesives remain effective in all climatic conditions, and whilst bathing or in the sea. Occasionally excess heat or sweating may affect how well your bag sticks so bear this in mind when packing. Your appliances should be kept at room temperature and can be disposed of via general waste collections.

Food and drink

It is always important to maintain a healthy and varied fluid intake. Alcohol and caffeinated drinks should be consumed in moderation to avoid the risks of dehydration. Sports drinks (such as Gatorade) and rehydration solutions (available from pharmacies) will help replace salts lost through diarrhoea and sweating. The impact of tummy upsets caused by unfamiliar foods and foreign water supplies can be exaggerated for people with stomas so it is worth being extra careful with regards to food hygiene. Always wash your hands before and after eating and drink bottled water as the mineral content of unfamiliar water may upset your system.

Air travel

Airport security measures are in place for everyone’s safety and staff are trained to understand many medical conditions. It is unlikely that your appliance will be visible on an image from a body scanner, however metal items will be detectable. If staff ask to search you or your luggage you may request a private room, if you wish.

If you are searched it is best to remain courteous and allow the staff to do their job. Refusal to comply with security procedures may result in you being forbidden from boarding your flight.

Ostomy Lifestyle provides a free Lifestyle Card. This provides information (in several languages) about your stoma and can help you communicate with people whilst travelling.

Always check with your airline or travel agent before travelling what security measures are in place (e.g. carriage of liquids, pastes, sharp items such as scissors etc, in hand luggage) as these do change. (Air Travel advice) (see Resources below)

Insurance

When arranging travel insurance you must declare any pre-existing medical conditions. You have a choice whether to include these conditions under the terms of your policy or not. If you choose to include them in your policy you may have to pay an extra premium. If you do not wish to include them you will be liable for any medical expenses incurred during your trip pertaining to those conditions. It is worth contacting several different insurance providers for quotes as policies vary. Our insurance facts page gives more information on this subject.

If you are travelling to another country in the European Economic Area it is advisable to have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This will enable you to access healthcare if you become ill during your visit. Remember to check the expiry date of your EHIC before travelling. (See Resources below)

Travellers with mobility issues or other disabilities may find it useful to contact disability charities for further advice.

Resources

A full list of the sources used to produce this document may be obtained by contacting Ostomy Lifestyle.

Original date of issue: July 2008
Reviewed: January 2012
Planned review date: January 2015