Your ostomy shouldn't stop you from travelling. However, you do need a little extra preparation, especially in the beginning.
Bring a changing bag
Whether you are travelling by car, ferry, train or plane, it is important to pack a small changing bag, where you can keep extra pouches and any other supplies you may need with you.
How to avoid seat belt chafes
If you travel by car you might also find it helpful to bring a small cushion. Place it in your lap between the seat belt and your pouch. That way you can avoid having the seat belt rub against your pouch.
Travelling by plane? Get a Travel Certificate!
Are you worried about going through the security at the airport and having to explain your condition to security personnel? If so, one of the things you can do as an extra preparation to keep surprises at a minimum, is to get a Travel Certificate.
A Travel Certificate a simple document, explaining your medical condition. This can be shown to your security officer, to eliminate the need for you to try and explain this yourself in front of fellow travelers.
Simply fill out some personal information and let the Travel Certificate do the talking for you.
Do you need additional insurance?
Before you travel abroad, you need to check how your condition and circumstances are covered by your travel insurance policy. Maybe you need to look for additional insurance coverage – if so, make sure to declare your ostomy.
It shouldn't result in a large premium. The insurance company will probably be more concerned about the condition that lead to your ostomy surgery in the first place. In any case, be sure to ask more than one insurance provider, as specialist insurance companies might save you a lot of money on travel insurance.
Sometimes, crossing a certain threshold (e.g. 12 months since surgery) will make insurance significantly cheaper, so that could impact your travel plans.
Getting supplies and help at your destination
It is also well worth the trouble to find out in advance where and how you can get medical assistance at your travel destination.
If going on a longer trip, you should check whether it is possible to get the ostomy care supplies you need locally where you're going. Your regular supplier might even arrange delivery abroad for you, if you ask well in advance.
