Make sure to pack your lubricating drops, pouch deodorizers, stoma paste, barrier ointment or sprays, and any other liquids like your shampoo or skin cleansers in compliance with the guideline. This may help you avoid any potential hold-ups at TSA security checkpoints. If you use ostomy scissors for your cut-to-fit skin barriers, scissors are allowed in your carry-on baggage as long as the cutting edge is no longer than 4 inches.
No need for cutting or trimming! Be ready for any potential delays or hold-ups by printing and filling out a Travel Communication Card courtesy of the United Ostomy Associations of America. While it may not be necessary, it could prove helpful if you need to communicate your medical needs to any TSA agents or flight attendants.
Just keep it with your other flight documents. The Transportation Security Administration offers passengers with medical conditions, special needs, or disabilities a special support line called TSA Cares. You can get help and find out more about what to expect at the security checkpoints. Be sure to include all the accompanying ostomy accessories that you commonly use. Experiencing new things is often the reason for traveling — but when it comes to feeling secure and comfortable, it would be nice to keep the surprises to a minimum.
Leaving your home base requires that you make some extra preparations for both your journey and stay — but it doesn't have to hold you back. If the climate is warm enough to make you perspire more than usual, the barrier might lose adhesion and you may need to change your pouch more frequently. Make sure your skin is completely dry before you apply a new barrier for good adhesion. It can be a bit tricky if the weather is very hot and humid — if drying your skin is difficult, you can use a hairdryer on low heat to dry the area but be careful that it does not get too hot and keep it away from the stoma itself.
Apply sunscreen after you put on your barrier, as the lotion could affect the baseplate and make it harder to stick. Read about applying sunscreen in the 'use sunscreen' section. We recommend that your supplies are stored in a cool place — do not leave your ostomy products e. When spending time in a warmer climate you might need a few more products than usually.
For some people a skin barrier that helps the adhesive stick better can be very helpful, and if it is the edges not sticking properly an elastic tape can be a possible solution. Some benefit from using a antiperspirant on the skin in the area to be covered by the adhesive. It is always a good idea to talk to your stoma nurse before going if you have any questions.
The most important is that you wear something that makes you feel good — feel as you. Some people do not mind showing their bag when going to the beach, whereas some prefer covering up.
Do what makes you feel the best. Unfortunately, buying specialty swimwear is no guarantee of a good fit. On the other hand, you might be able to find regular swimwear that fits your need perfectly. On the beach, a sarong or wrap can be a great way to gracefully cover up without feeling out of place. Always make sure that the barrier sticks properly before going swimming — give it some time after applying. Be aware that the water can affect the adhesion negatively, so make sure to change your product more frequently if needed.
You are also welcome to contact one of our call specialists on When booking your ticket: it might be a good idea to book a seat near the toilet as it might help take away some of your concerns and make you feel more confident as well.
You can bring as much as you can in your hand luggage within the requirements of the airline, but since you will not be allowed to bring scissors in your hand luggage we recommend that you cut all your baseplates to the right size before you fly. The security scanner might detect your pouch, but you do not have to show your pouch, and security should not ask you to remove clothing to expose it or let them touch it.
You may be asked to rub your hand against the pouch on the outside of your clothes, but that should be the extent of the examination. You can always show them your travel certificate , which explains your condition, the medical supplies you are carrying and why you might need support and privacy. There is a slight risk that the pressure will cause the pouch to balloon. If this should happen all you need to do is go into the bathroom and take out the air.
And remember that just as often ballooning is caused by something you ate or drank — so when you're flying be extra careful with carbonated drinks.
If you are a little self-conscious about noise from the pouch, you will be pleasantly surprised by how noisy an airplane cabin is. Staying in the shade is an effective way to reduce sun exposure. While potentially bulky, it is still safer to have the supplies with you then to risk the loss of supplies in stowed luggage that may go astray.
If you are using a cut-to-fit appliance, recent restrictions with carrying sharp items, such as scissors in hand luggage, can be problematic. You may want to consider pre-cutting some flanges prior to your trip, and putting scissors in your stowed luggage. Even if your luggage goes missing, purchasing a pair of scissors at your final destination should not be problematic. Also be aware of differences in luggage allowances between regular carriers and charter flights: charter flights tend to be more restrictive with the amount and the weight of hand and stowed luggage that is allowed per person.
Your travel agent should be able to confirm luggage allowances prior to your trip. Travelling by bus or train usually allows you to have your luggage close at hand, so the risk of loss is not as worrisome.
If you plan on travelling for extended periods of time, taking all of your ostomy supplies as hand luggage may not be realistic. Most of the main ostomy product suppliers ConvaTec, Coloplast, and Hollister have international directories of stores or distributors in many places around the world. You can contact the company prior to your travel date and ask for a directory or for the name of suppliers at your destination.
You should prepare a record of your product name, size and order numbers to take with you on your travels as this will make the potential purchase of items easier. During air travel, you may find that there is increased gas in your pouch for the duration of the flight.
To prevent additional gas formation, avoid drinking carbonated beverages or beer during the flight. If you are travelling to cooler climates, store your supplies at a normal room temperature such as 18 degrees Celsius. If you are travelling to warmer, more humid climates, then store your supplies in a cooler bag, and place away from any direct sunlight.
Finding suitable bathrooms to empty your appliance can be challenging when travelling.
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