Traveling with Catheters: 10 Tips from Real Catheter Users

Travel Tips for People Who Use Catheters

Here are 10 practical travel tips from real people who use catheters every day, including our customers.

Tip 1. Don't give up on traveling just because you cath.

Using intermittent catheters doesn't mean you have to stay close to home. With some preparation, you can take day trips, visit family and friends, or travel on vacation when you're ready.

One member of the 180 Medical Community, Duane, regularly travels by car and plane with his wife to conventions and outings across the country. He wants others who self-cath to know that they can travel, too.

If privacy or the ease of packing supplies is a concern, compact catheter options can be easier to pack and carry while you're away. We offer more ideas for how to discreetly carry your catheter supplies.

Tip 2. Calculate how many supplies you need to take with you before you leave.

Before any trip or short outing, figure out how many catheters you'll need based on your prescribed schedule. Then pack extras just in case you're away from home for longer than expected.

For a day trip, count how many scheduled catheterizations will need to happen during the time you'll be away.

For a long trip, multiply the number of catheters you use each day by the number of days you plan to be traveling. Remember to include any other items you use, such as antiseptic wipes, hand sanitizer, or lubricating jelly. 

For example, if you self-cath four times per day and you'll be away for about seven days, you'll need to take along at least 28 catheters based on your usual schedule, plus extras just in case.

Tip 3. Keep backup supplies on hand.

Delays, lost luggage, and the unexpected can happen when you're traveling, leaving you needing more supplies than you planned for. Pack extra catheters and, when possible, divide your backup supplies among your carry-on bags, suitcase, purse, or another secure place.

Michele, a 180 Medical customer who shared her story of surviving bladder cancer, says she carries a separate bag of catheters in her carry-on luggage or purse at all times. Also, she never leaves home without extras.

Tip 4. Stay hygienic when using catheters in public restrooms.

Good hygiene matters wherever you cath, but public restrooms can sometimes make it more challenging. 

Our customers have shared a few ways they keep their supplies clean and organized while traveling or leaving the house for a while.

When cathing in a public restroom, some customers like to bring a small kit of supplies in a purse or bag. Include whatever you need to cath, like travel-size hand sanitizer, gloves, antiseptic wipes, a drape or clean paper towels, and disposal bags.

Washing your hands before and after catheterization is a good habit to keep, no matter where you go.

Richard shares that he loves horseback riding regularly, but it can leave his hands dusty or dry. He says he keeps some extra supplies in his car to clean up his hands before cathing when a restroom isn't readily available.

Tip 5. Ask about shipping your order to where you're staying.

Are you planning an extended vacation or a long stay in the United States? Would you rather not have to pack a large number of catheter supplies in your luggage? Contact 180 Medical ahead of time to see if your order can be shipped to your vacation destination.

Our specialists are happy to help, and we'll go over available shipment options so you can prepare in advance.

Tip 6. Carry a medical ID if needed.

For some people, a medical ID can communicate important information about their needs and medical condition in case of an emergency. 

Anthony, who caths through a stoma due to an Indiana pouch, says he wears a medical ID necklace when traveling. His ID lists:

• Name and date of birth
• Relevant medical information (in Anthony's case, he lists urinary diversion and Indiana pouch, along with the location of his stoma)
• Allergies
• Emergency contacts, including his healthcare provider's phone number

Depending on your situation, carrying a medical ID may bring some peace of mind when you're traveling with catheters.

Tip 7. If you're flying, get familiar with TSA guidelines before leaving.

When you're planning to travel by air, catheters and related medical supplies can be packed in carry-on and/or checked luggage. 

Donald shares, "I just keep a separate pouch in my briefcase or carry-on that holds what I need when I travel."

Before your trip, review the TSA guidelines, especially if you need to carry liquids such as catheter lubricant, sterile water for bladder irrigation, or hand sanitizer.

If you have questions or would like additional screening assistance, contact TSA Cares at least 72 hours before your flight.

Tip 8. Set reminders to stay on your prescribed cathing schedule.

Travel days, sightseeing, and changes to your normal routine can make it easier to lose track of time.

Setting an alarm on your phone or a smartwatch can help you stay on your prescribed catheterization schedule and give you time to find a restroom or a private place to cath.

Tip 9. Use a discreet pocket catheter or another travel-ready option.

Compact and pocket catheters come in various types, including uncoated pocket catheters and ready-to-use hydrophilic options. These can be especially helpful when traveling because they may be easier to carry or use while away from home. 

Pocket catheters are usually smaller than standard catheter packages, so they may take up less space in your bag or luggage.

No-touch catheters with handling sleeves can also be a great option for traveling because they help limit direct hand contact with the catheter tube. This is especially helpful in public restrooms or other places where clean space is limited.

Leanne, mother of 180 Medical customer Cooper, uses the GentleCath Glide™ catheter with an attachable urine collection bag when cathing her son Cooper through his stoma. For her, this makes cathing when they're traveling or away from home a little easier.

Tip 10. Pack trash bags for discreet disposal of supplies on the go.

When you know you'll be away from home, pack a few disposable bags with the catheter supplies you carry throughout the day. You can also keep extras in your carry-on, checked luggage, backpack, or purse.

Duane separately purchases some small kitchen trash bags to keep in his suitcase with his catheter insertion supplies, including BZK antiseptic towelettes, a container of antibacterial soap, toilet paper, underpads, and gloves.

Some people like to use gallon-size zippered plastic bags. Others prefer brown paper bags since they're opaque. Either option can help keep your used catheter supplies until they can be discarded.

Some closed system catheters with insertion supplies, like the Rusch MMG H2O Hydrophilic Closed System Catheter, include a bag for easy, discreet disposal.

Other catheter options have convenient packaging that doubles as a disposal bag. For example, the GentleCath Air™ for Men comes in a pocket-sized package that's easy to open and close. After you're done cathing, you can pop the catheter back into the package and close it. Then you can discreetly toss it for quick, tidy disposal.

Plan Your Trip with Our Catheter Travel Guide

Need more tips for traveling with catheters? 180 Medical offers a complete guide, including a printable packing checklist, travel and restroom communication cards, and practical tips for managing your catheter supplies while you're away from home.

If you need help comparing your travel-ready catheter options, contact our specialists.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling with Catheters

Can you travel with catheters?

Yes. Many people who use intermittent catheters travel for work, vacations, family visits, and everyday outings. Planning ahead, packing extra supplies, and knowing how to cath hygienically away from home can help make travel easier.

Can you bring catheters on a plane?

Yes. Catheters and related medical supplies can usually be packed in carry-on or checked luggage. Many people prefer to keep catheter supplies in their carry-on bag in case checked luggage is lost or delayed.

How many catheters should I pack for travel?

Start by calculating how many catheters you use each day based on your prescription. Multiply that by the number of days you’ll be away, then pack extras in case of delays, emergencies, or changes to your routine.

Can I bring catheter lubricant or sterile water through TSA?

TSA allows medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities for a trip. These items may need to be screened separately, so tell a TSA officer about medically necessary liquids or gels at the checkpoint.

Should I pack catheter supplies in my carry-on?

Yes. If you’re flying, it’s a good idea to keep catheter supplies in your carry-on bag so you still have what you need if your checked luggage is lost or delayed.

Can TSA Cares help travelers with catheters?

Yes. TSA Cares provides support for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, and other special circumstances. TSA recommends contacting TSA Cares at least 72 hours before your departure.

How can I discreetly dispose of catheters while traveling?

Many catheter users carry disposal bags, zippered plastic bags, or opaque bags for discreet disposal. Some catheter products also include packaging that can be used for disposal after catheterization.

What catheter types are helpful for travel?

Compact catheters, pocket catheters, hydrophilic catheters, pre-lubricated catheters, and closed system catheters may be helpful for travel because they can be discreet, portable, or easier to use away from home. The right option depends on your prescription, needs, and insurance coverage.

Can 180 Medical ship catheter supplies to my travel destination?

If you’re planning an extended trip within the United States, contact 180 Medical ahead of time to discuss whether your order can be shipped to where you’ll be staying.

What should I include in a travel catheter kit?

A travel catheter kit may include catheters, lubricant if needed, gloves, antiseptic wipes, hand sanitizer, underpads or paper towels, disposal bags, and any other insertion supplies recommended by your healthcare provider.

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.