Traveling with an Ostomy by Plane

Traveling with an Ostomy by plane can be stressful. A proper and prepared approach will alleviate many of the stresses involved. We have compiled some of the best practices while traveling via plane. While some items may seem like common sense, it’s never a bad idea to create a list to be sure that all possible issues are addressed. There are a few items that you’ll need to purchase when you land like scissors. It’s also never a bad idea to pack vital supplies in two areas in case of lost luggage.

Traveling with an Ostomy by Plane

It is better to be prepared and have more than you need when it comes to ostomy supplies. We will detail those items below the pre-flight and carry-on list. Nothing about flying is particularly comfortable, so anything you can do to make it easier will payoff. An aisle seat can make life easier depending on the length of the flight in case you need to get up once or twice to attend to your ostomy appliance.

Airport Security

Its always a good idea to start your trip with an empty pouch. After checking in, seek out the security person and make them aware of the items in your carry on that may raise a flag, and also inform them that you are wearing an ostomy appliance throughout the process. They may have you checked out through a different line. Keep all your supplies in a clear plastic bag to expedite the process. You may also consider printing and filling out a Travel Communication Card from the United Ostomy Associations of America. Click here to download. Here is a link to read up on the latest TSA Guidelines for traveling with a disability or medical condition.

Ostomy items to keep in your carry on

Odor eliminator drops
Hand sanitizing gel
Ostomy wafers that are trimmed to your specific needs
Extra ostomy pouch
Disposable towels
Waterproof tape or pre-cut strips for bordering the wafer
Ziplock bag for disposing of items
Fruit juice or an electrolyte rich drink (purchase after security check)
A change of cloths in case of a leak

When you make it to the plane, if you feel it necessary, inform the flight attendant that you may need to get up to use the restroom. If you let them know, they will be more accommodating if you need to use the restroom during times when the seatbelt is required. Stress is also something that can make your stomach upset, so embrace the situation, enjoy music or a movie and try not to worry. At this point you have done everything you can to make trip comfortable.

Hy-Tape has pre-cut strips in packs of 4 that are thin and easy to carry when traveling with an ostomy by plane. While Hy-tape is easy to tear, some may have problems trimming tape to size and Hy-Tapes strips are pre-cut making life a little easier. Boarding a wafer is an extra layer of waterproof security and the zinc-oxide adhesive may be soothing to the skin.

Learn more about how Ostomy Patients can benefit from Hy-Tape

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