On the Go Travel Tips

Travelling with a colostomy, an ileostomy or a urostomy? Here are tips to help you prepare for air, ground or cruise travel with a stoma.

Enjoy a trouble-free transit with these travel tips.

If you’re travelling by airplane, car, bus, train or cruise ship, you might be stressed about your ostomy needs during the trip. Don’t worry. With a little preparation, everything can go smoothly. 

It’s also a good idea to start with short trips away from home to build up your confidence. Once you’re reassured that your pouching system stays secure during normal day-to-day activities, you can start to venture farther.

Here are a few tips to help you be fully prepared and comfortable, no matter how you travel.

Luggage weight limits: Are you travelling by air with a lot of supplies? Check with your airline for the luggage weight limit. Weigh the luggage before you go. It may be helpful to use a portable luggage scale. If you’re over the limit, check to see if your airline has a special allowance for medical supplies.  

Forbidden items: All airlines forbid dangerous items on board airplanes. For example, ether, methylated spirits or flammable aerosol adhesives and removers are considered fire hazards. Scissors also may not be allowed in carry-on luggage – check with your airline or pre-cut all of your skin barriers before travelling.  

Pre-boarding security checks: At airports, your carry-on luggage will be inspected at the security baggage check before boarding. If you have medications, get a card from your healthcare professional that explains why you need them. Some countries do not allow certain medications, such as codeine, to cross their borders.  

Get an ostomy travel certificate in the language of your choice: This should explain why you need pouches, skin barriers, and medications to customs and security personnel at checkpoints. The certificate is also helpful if you need supplies while traveling internationally. Even with such documentation, it’s also a good idea to have a letter from your Stomal Therapy Nurse (STN) explaining your medical condition to help you be ready for searches or checkpoint questions.

Using airplane toilets: During a long flight, there can be long lines for toilets, especially after meals. Be alert for a chance to use the toilet when most people are in their seats. It’s also a good idea to request a seat near a toilet. 

Car travel: Your car seat belt should sit across your hip bone and pelvis, not your abdomen and stoma. If you want to give your stoma extra protection from the strap, you can buy a seat belt pad. You can also use an extension bracket to lower the angle of the belt across your body.

Cruising with a stoma: Are you worried about taking a river, lake or ocean cruise? Don’t be. If you’ll be away from land for a few days or more, just pack double the supplies you need. Plus, follow these simple precautions and you’ll have a trouble-free voyage.

View or print the full PDF booklet: Living with an Ostomy: Travel