Having a stoma shouldn’t limit your ability to travel in the UK or abroad. It may just take a little more forward planning. The Colostomy Association have developed a useful guide on travelling with a stoma. Here are our top tips. Make sure you have enough supplies Air travel is usually an exciting experience as there is often a wonderful holiday destination at the end! If you already have an EHIC card, it will be valid until the expiry date, after which you’ll need to apply for the New EHIC Card or a GHIC depending on your individual circumstances. This means you’ll be able to access healthcare for the same cost as residents of that country, otherwise you’ll have to pay in full. You will also need Travel Insurance though, as this is specific to healthcare. Don’t be afraid to go sunbathing while you are abroad, either. If you like spending a lot of time in the sun, it is best to ensure your bag is covered as the plastic of the pouch magnifies the heat.

If you are celebrating and don’t want to miss out on a glass of fizz….make sure you give it a good stir to get rid of the bubbles before drinking! Limit yourself to the one glass and keep up your water intake to remain hydrated. Calculate the number of bags you would normally need for each day of your holiday – and double it, with a few extras! The change in climate and environment may mean more bag changes are needed. If the worst happens and your suitcase goes missing at least you will have your ostomy supplies. It can be very difficult and expensive to get hold of additional supplies in a foreign country. It would be worth asking your airline if you can have extra hand luggage, which they can give in certain medical situations. It is advisable to keep this bag with most of your stoma equipment within your hand luggage, so this is always with you and within easy reach. It is safer to have the supplies with you than risk the loss of supplies in luggage which might go astray! It is also a good idea to keep some stoma equipment in your main luggage just in case. Try to divide the load between bags. Try to arrive at the airport early so you are not feeling rushed. When it comes to air travel is a good idea to get your seats booked in advance, then you can plan to be near the toilet onboard the plane. Usually, the aisle seats are easily accessible.In general, it is advisable to keep most of your supplies in your hand luggage so that it remains with you at all times and is within easy reach. However, in case your hand luggage is misplaced, extra supplies should be kept in your suitcase or companion’s luggage as a precaution.

If you usually wear a closed stoma pouch, you may like to consider obtain some drainable versions, in case of tummy bugs and looser than usual output.

Living With a Stoma

Remember, it is very normal to feel apprehensive before air travel and a holiday. By planning ahead it will help you to feel more in control about the situation. If you wear bikinis, a high-legged or high-waisted style may cover your stoma. Alternatively, choose a tankini top (long, vest-style top) to wear with bikini bottoms. If you normally wear a closed bag, a few drainable bags may be useful to take with you. Whether you are travelling abroad or at home, you can catch a tummy bug. Draining a bag can be much more convenient if the stool is loose, and reduces the frequency of changes and the possibility of sore skin. Work out the number of pouches you will need for each day of your holiday and double it and even add in a few extras. Just so you are covered for all eventualities such as possible tummy bugs! This will ease any worries you have. It is a good idea to avoid foods which you know may cause excessive wind; have frequent small meals for 24 hours prior to flying; and try to avoid spiced or fatty foods and fizzy drinks.

You may want to take different sized pouches with you such as stoma caps for swimming (colostomy only), and larger pouches for flights.When you have decided on your destination, you must ensure you have adequate holiday insurance cover. It may be better if you dry the bag well and leave the bag for a few minutes. The adhesive should then return to normal.