Joined in 2023 
82 
63 About this deal
If you usually wear a closed stoma pouch, you may like to consider obtain some drainable versions, in case of tummy bugs and looser than usual output. The same applies to liquids on board, it might be an idea to exchange your adhesive remover and skin protective sprays to wipe versions. If you wear bikinis, a high-legged or high-waisted style may cover your stoma. Alternatively, choose a tankini top (long, vest-style top) to wear with bikini bottoms. Try to arrive at the airport early so you are not feeling rushed. When it comes to air travel is a good idea to get your seats booked in advance, then you can plan to be near the toilet onboard the plane. Usually, the aisle seats are easily accessible. All of these medications are available on prescription or over the counter from the pharmacist or local supermarket.
A separate small travel kit containing items needed for a bag change should be kept close at hand to make visits to the toilet simple and discreet. If the worst happens and your suitcase goes missing at least you will have your ostomy supplies. It can be very difficult and expensive to get hold of additional supplies in a foreign country. It would be worth asking your airline if you can have extra hand luggage, which they can give in certain medical situations.
Products
Make sure you have plenty of fluid stops and always carry a bottle of water. Isotonic sports drinks such as Lucozade Sport or equivalent are excellent for combating dehydration. This may involve completing a medical questionnaire or perhaps a telephone call with a medical advisor. You must disclose any medical history, surgery and any pre-existing conditions. You may want a larger capacity for a long flight, or a smaller bag for swimming. Ask your Stoma Care Nurse for advice. It is advisable to keep this bag with most of your stoma equipment within your hand luggage, so this is always with you and within easy reach. It is safer to have the supplies with you than risk the loss of supplies in luggage which might go astray! It is also a good idea to keep some stoma equipment in your main luggage just in case. Try to divide the load between bags. If you already have an EHIC card, it will be valid until the expiry date, after which you’ll need to apply for the New EHIC Card or a GHIC depending on your individual circumstances. This means you’ll be able to access healthcare for the same cost as residents of that country, otherwise you’ll have to pay in full. You will also need Travel Insurance though, as this is specific to healthcare.
Before insurers agree to provide cover, you will have to go through the insurer’s screening process. You may want to take different sized pouches with you such as stoma caps for swimming (colostomy only), and larger pouches for flights.
Living With a Stoma
It is always a wise move to avoid any foods, especially fatty foods or fizzy drinks, or any other foods which usually upset your stomach in the few days before your flight. This will reduce any excessive gas you may experience during the flight. This way, you can request an aisle seat near the toilet. You may also be able to request this in advance with your travel agent. Air travel can make some people a bit ‘windy’. Take a large bottle of water on board with you and keep sipping to keep you fully hydrated. The humidity in the cabin is low which causes us all to feel dehydrated. Work out the number of pouches you will need for each day of your holiday and double it and even add in a few extras. Just so you are covered for all eventualities such as possible tummy bugs! This will ease any worries you have.
Hopefully before you step on board a plane, you will have done other more local trips away from home which will have built up your confidence in managing your stoma when you are out in public.
Sign up for regular updates
When choosing swimwear, try and choose a boldly patterned costume which will camouflage any bulges. When you have decided on your destination, you must ensure you have adequate holiday insurance cover. Remember, it is very normal to feel apprehensive before air travel and a holiday. By planning ahead it will help you to feel more in control about the situation. Having a stoma shouldn’t limit your ability to travel in the UK or abroad. It may just take a little more forward planning. The Colostomy Association have developed a useful guide on travelling with a stoma. Here are our top tips. Make sure you have enough supplies
Great Deal 
New Comment