Traveling with an ostomy can be difficult. Ensuring that the ostomy is secured properly, does not smell, and is convenient can be tough without the right planning. Here, we’ll discuss several tips for making the travel experience easier, what to pack when traveling with an ostomy, and how Hy-Tape can help secure the ostomy no matter how long the trip.
Tips for Traveling With an Ostomy
It’s always a good idea to be prepared for your travel and to take extra steps to ensure your medical needs are met. There are several steps you can take to make traveling with an ostomy much easier. Below are some guidelines for ensuring safe and simple travel when using an ostomy:
- Pack the right supplies: It’s a good idea to pack all the ostomy supplies you think you will need for your trip. Having enough supplies for travel days as well as your time away from home can help ensure that you don’t need to worry about obtaining supplies at your destination.
- Use the right ostomy bag: Ostomy users tend to have a preference for the type of bag that suits them best. Choose a bag that’s comfortable and discreet so you can travel confidently.
- Wear comfortable clothing: Loose, comfortable clothing makes traveling with an ostomy much easier. Avoid tight clothing that could push or rub against the ostomy and cause issues.
- Use a deodorizing spray: Bring along a deodorizing spray to ensure that you don’t have to stress out about odors from your ostomy. A small bottle of spray can easily be packed In your carry-on luggage if flying.
- Be prepared for delays: As is common with travel, delays can happen. Be sure to pack enough supplies to handle an extra day or two of travel issues.
- Keep your bag secured: Securing your ostomy may be the most important part of your travel experience. A variety of ostomy supplies can help keep the bag in place and attached properly.
It’s also a good idea to inform anyone you travel with that you have an ostomy. In the event of an emergency, they may need to know how to reattach it or clean things up.
How to Secure Your Ostomy for Travel
Just like any other day, securing your ostomy is essential. Travel can complicate the securing of your ostomy due to the amount of movement experienced when walking, driving, or riding. Be sure to use the right items to secure your ostomy and enjoy an easy and safe travel experience:
- Adhesives: One of the most common ways to secure an ostomy is with adhesive medical tape. Tapes can be used to seal around the stoma and attach the ostomy bag to the skin. Many different tapes are available on the market, such as Hy-Tape which provides flexibility, low skin irritation, and a waterproof seal.
- Support belts: While traveling, a support belt may also be helpful. These belts allow for extra securing of your ostomy bag in addition to tape. They can be helpful for those who don’t want to deal with medical tape or who need extra support for the bag.
- Stoma powder: This powder can help absorb moisture at the stoma site to help ensure a strong bond between the skin and the ostomy. It’s applied before attaching anything else.
- Stoma guards: Guards are small, flexible pouches that fit over a stoma and can be attached with medical tape. They can be helpful for those with a large or protruding stoma and offer extra security and peace of mind.
- Stoma covers: Covers are small, round pieces of fabric that go over a stoma. They help to avoid skin irritation at the opening and to hide the stoma when wearing tighter clothes.
With the right items, securing an ostomy during travel can be easy. Make sure to try different techniques before your trip to make sure you know the most comfortable combination of items.
Use Hy-Tape for a Secure and Comfortable Adhesion
When securing an ostomy for travel, high-quality medical tape can be invaluable. Hy-Tape provides a strong hold and improved comfort compared to many other options.
Hy-Tape is designed to be sensitive to the skin. It features zinc oxide to help protect the skin from irritation. It’s also made with flexible materials so users can move comfortably, which is important for the walking and movement of travel.
Hy-Tape adhesive is also waterproof, helping to ensure a tight seal over the stoma. This can help keep odors and liquid from escaping at the stoma site, providing a sanitary feel for the user.