If you’re new to living with a colostomy, urostomy, or ileostomy, you might have questions about traveling with an ostomy bag and how to prepare and pack your supplies for a trip. The good news is that your ostomy does not have to hold you back from taking vacations, visiting family and friends, or traveling for work.
Whether you’re hitting the road or taking to the skies, this ostomy travel guide can help you prepare with tips covering how many ostomy supplies to bring, what to keep in your carry-on, and what to expect at airport security.
Quick Checklist Before Traveling with an Ostomy
- Empty or change your ostomy pouch before leaving home
- Keep a backup change of clothes accessible in case of leaks
- Take pictures of your product packaging with the names and item numbers visible
- Pack a few complete pouch changes together in individual grab-and-go bags for easy access
- Try any new ostomy products at home before relying on them during a trip
- Contact TSA Cares at least 72 hours before your flight if you want to request extra screening support
- Look up restroom locations along your route or near planned activities
How Many Ostomy Supplies Should You Pack?
Start by estimating how many pouch changes you would normally expect during your time away from home. Then bring additional complete changes in case of pouch leaks, increased output, travel delays, or an extended stay.
For example, if you typically change your pouching system once a day and plan to be away from home for three days, you’d want to pack at least 6 pouches, along with a few extras, and all your usual ostomy accessories.
You may want to pack even more than that if you’ll be traveling in a place where replacement ostomy supplies may be difficult to find.
What Ostomy Supplies Should You Bring When Traveling?
Think through each step of your usual pouch change and which ostomy products and accessories you might use.
Depending on your routine, your ostomy packing list might include:
- Ostomy pouches
- Skin barriers, wafers, or flanges
- Seals, barrier rings, or ostomy paste
- Adhesive remover wipes or spray
- Ostomy pouch deodorizer
- Clamps for drainable ostomy pouches
- Ostomy belt or wrap
- Ostomy scissors (if you use cut-to-fit skin barriers)
- Disposal bags
- A small mirror (if it makes it easier to see your stoma during pouch changes)
- Extra change of clothes
- Hand sanitizer for when soap and water may not be available
Packing everything needed for one pouch change together in an individual bag can make your supplies easier to grab when you need to use a public restroom.
Tips for Flying with an Ostomy
If you’re flying with an ostomy for the first time, knowing what to expect may help you feel more comfortable going through TSA screening with ostomy supplies.
1. Keep some backup ostomy supplies in your carry-on bag.
If you’re traveling by plane, there’s always a risk that checked luggage will be lost or delayed. It’s best not to pack all your supplies in a single checked bag.
Instead, pack some backup supplies in your carry-on bags and, if you have room, in your checked luggage as well. This gives you more than one option in case anything unexpected happens during your trip.
2. Planning an extended trip? Ask if your order can be shipped to your destination.
If you know you’ll be away from home for an extended trip, reach out to 180 Medical ahead of time before your trip. Depending on your last order date and your insurance requirements, we may be able to have your regular monthly order or a partial order shipped to the address where you’ll be staying (if within the United States).
3. Pack a travel communication card and prepare for screening.
Be prepared for traveling with your ostomy supplies by printing and completing a Travel Communication Card from the United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA).
While this isn’t a pass to skip screening, it can discreetly let security know that you have an ostomy without having to talk about your needs out loud.
Note: According to the TSA, you can request a private screening and should not have to empty or expose your ostomy pouch during Advanced Imaging Technology, a walk-through metal detector, or a pat-down. Need more assistance? Contact TSA Cares at (855) 787-2227 at least 72 hours before your flight.
You may also choose to carry a note from your healthcare provider explaining your ostomy and the need for your supplies, particularly when you’re traveling internationally.
4. Follow TSA guidelines for liquids and scissors
Per the TSA 3-1-1 Liquids Rule, you can bring a clear quart-sized bag containing liquids, such as pouch deodorizing spray or stoma paste, through security checkpoints in your carry-on luggage, as long as each item is 3.4 ounces or less. Only one bag per passenger is allowed.
TSA allows medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities larger than 3.4 ounces. Just tell a TSA officer about these products before screening begins, since they may need to be inspected separately.
Also, if you use ostomy scissors for cut-to-fit skin barriers, the cutting edge must be less than four inches from the pivot point. It may be easier to pre-cut your cut-to-fit barriers before traveling so you don’t have to worry about it later, especially if you’re traveling internationally. Security requirements can vary between countries, so check the rules for each destination in advance.
Skin barriers and one-piece pouches with Convatec Moldable Technology™ can provide a more secure, personalized fit around your stoma without needing to cut at all. If you’re ready to step away from scissors, contact 180 Medical’s Ostomy Specialists. We can help you find the right products for your needs based on your prescription and insurance coverage.
Tips for Road Trips and Days Away from Home
If you’re traveling by car, bus, or train, or if you just plan to be away from home for a while, it’s still important to plan ahead for pouch changes, restroom access, and carrying or storing your ostomy supplies.
When you’re packing your car, keep your ostomy supplies inside the cabin rather than in the trunk. You don’t want your ostomy products to get too hot or too cold, which can sometimes damage them.
You may want to keep a small travel kit or bag within easy reach. This kit can include a few ostomy pouches, skin barriers, adhesive removers, a disposal bag, wipes, and an extra change of clothes in case of leaks. Having these items nearby can make it easier to handle a pouch change or leak without having to dig through your luggage.
And of course, before heading out, make sure your pouch has been changed or emptied.
What to Eat When Traveling with an Ostomy
Travel can disrupt your normal routine, including when and what you eat.
- Stick with foods you know work well for you before you leave and during any long stretches or travel without easy access to restrooms.
- Pack a few familiar snacks for your trip.
- Limit foods or drinks that could cause gas, nausea, or above-average stool output.
- Stay hydrated, especially in hotter weather or when you’re more active than usual.
- Keep following any food or hydration guidance from your healthcare provider or ostomy nurse, even when you’re away from home.
How to Maintain Ostomy Hygiene Away From Home
When you’re away from home on a long trip or just out for the day, it can feel a little more challenging to maintain personal hygiene in public restrooms. Here are a few quick hygiene tips:
- Wash your hands with soap and clean water before and after emptying or changing your pouch.
- Carry hand sanitizer for your hands when soap and water aren’t readily available.
- Keep your clean, unopened ostomy supplies together and protected until you’re ready to use them.
- Use a clean, dry surface to lay out your supplies when possible.
- Bring disposal bags to contain used supplies discreetly before throwing them away.
Prepare for Your Next Trip with Confidence
Your ostomy needs may require a little planning in advance, but your supplies don’t have to get in the way of having a good time away from home. Packing enough complete changes, keeping essential supplies nearby, and knowing what to expect at airport security can help.
If you need help preparing your next ostomy supply order before traveling, or if you’d like to explore your covered ostomy product options, contact 180 Medical. Our Ostomy Specialists are here to help answer any questions and help you explore your product options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling with an Ostomy
Can I travel with an ostomy?
Yes, many people with colostomies, ileostomies, or urostomies regularly travel or leave home for work, school, or visits with loved ones.
If you’ve recently had ostomy surgery and are still healing, please talk with your healthcare provider before planning a trip.
Can I fly with an ileostomy, urostomy, or colostomy bag?
Yes. Many people with ostomies travel with their ostomy bags and supplies. Planning ahead, packing extra supplies, and knowing what to expect may make the trip easier.
You’ll still need to go through airport security, but you shouldn’t have to empty, remove, or expose your pouch.
Do I have to show my ostomy pouch at airport security?
No. TSA states that travelers with ostomy pouches can be screened without removing or exposing their pouch. IF additional screening is required, you may be asked to touch the pouch over your clothing before your hands are tested.
You can also request a private screening.
Should I pack my ostomy supplies in a carry-on bag?
Yes, if you’re flying, keep some of your ostomy supplies in your carry-on bag in case your checked luggage is lost or delayed.
Check your airline’s rules to learn if there is a fee for carry-on luggage.
On many flights, you can usually also bring a small bag or backpack (if it fits under the seat) to hold backup supplies and an extra change of clothes in case of an ostomy leak.
Can you bring ostomy scissors on a plane?
For flights within the United States, TSA may permit scissors in carry-on luggage when the cutting edge is no longer than four inches from the pivot point. International security rules vary, so check the requirements for your destination before traveling.
Can you bring ostomy liquids and sprays through airport security?
Most sizes of ostomy pastes, liquids, gels, and sprays usually follow TSA’s 3-1-1 rule (3.4 ounces or less). Just make sure they’re kept in a clear quart-sized bag.
Disclaimer: Content provided on 180medical.com is for general educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Product and sample availability may vary based on your insurance plan, prescription, and other requirements. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your condition, treatment, or medical supply needs.
