Planning your Holiday 
For some people with a stoma they have a plan for each and every time they leave
their home. This article is for travel advice for ostomates. That could be going to work, a day out shopping or a social evening out.
Having everything they need for a stoma pouch change (or clothing) is necessary.
The thoughts of travelling in a Car, Taxi, Bus, Train, Aeroplane or Boat are for many
Ostomates an impossible dream. In the early days after surgery, it makes sense to
start with short trips away from home while you build up confidence again.
There is no reason why you cannot jet off to the opposite side of the world : head
for warmer ( or colder ) climes on a cruise, take a car, bus or train to tour around
Ireland or to another European country. It is understandable that Ostomates who
have recently had Stoma or Internal Pouch surgery associate even some short
journeys with a great amount of anxiety. By simply being aware of potential issues
before your start to contemplate your holiday you can certainly alleviate, or in most
cases, dispel the stress completely.

Travelling Abroad
If you are planning your first trip abroad and have had surgery in the last six weeks,
check with your surgeon or GP prior to booking in order to make sure you are able
to travel. Also, seek medical approval if you have been in hospital during the last six
months.

 

Supplies
Your comfort in travelling is most important, so you need to make preparations both
for travelling and for when you reach your destination. Remember in hot climates
your skin will perspire. You might also like to go swimming. Likewise, your diet may
change and so you may need to change your pouch more often than usual.
• Order extra quantity of your usual supplies. It is advisable to take between
one and a half to two times your normal limit.
• It is useful to take a roll of small pedal bin liners ( as well as the disposal bags
supplied with your appliances )for use in your hotel room. When securely tied
they will enable you to discreetly dispose of your appliance disposal bags.
• If you are advised against drinking local water, and if you normally irrigate your
Colostomy, you will need to use still bottled water.
• If you have a Colostomy it is recommended you take some drainable pouches
with you as well, just in case you suffer from an upset stomach.
• If you have a Urostomy consider bringing a folding night drainage bag stand
with you, it may well be a very useful thing to bring with you.
How to help yourself
• Watch what you eat, especially the day before you travel. You know yourself
the types of food that cause you problems so be careful to avoid these before
travelling. Try to avoid skipping meals too, as this can cause excess wind and
fluid.
• If your stoma is in an awkward position consider buying a protector to prevent
your pouch from getting trapped or rubbed by the safety belt in a plane or on
a coach. On longer journeys you can be strapped for a while if there is a lot of
turbulence on your flight.
• If you are flying, it is advisable to check in as early as you can. This way you
can request an aisle seat near to the toilet. You may even be able to reserve
this seat at the time of booking.
• It is advisable to wear comfortable loose fitting comfortable clothes.
Particularly on a long air journey cabin pressure can cause swelling of your
feet, ankles and waistline. It is most important to drink plenty of water and
walk about when you are able to.
• Avoid ice in drinks unless the cubes are made from bottled water. Watch out
with salads too, as these may have been washed in tap water. For similar
reasons, it is also recommended best to avoid ice cream.

Bon Voyage
Leaks
Nobody wants to have a problem with a leak, but they do occur. Some Ostomy
companies provide complimentary disposable bed pads, which you might want to
consider taking with you.
Fluids
Fluids are very important. In hot countries you lose fluids through perspiration.
Moderate your intake of alcohol and caffeine drinks as they can lead to dehydration.
If you do become dehydrated, sports drinks and rehydration powders are useful to
replace lost salts. Avoid drinking very cold water as this remains in your stomach
longer and takes longer to be absorbed by the body. It is also advisable to drink
bottled water unless you can be sure that the tap water is safe.
Remember
If you irrigate and the quality of the tap water is questionable, make sure you irrigate
with bottled water.
Useful Medication
It is a good idea to take an electrolyte replacement solution with you in case you become
dehydrated. It is also worth speaking to your stoma nurse, GP or pharmacist prior to
travel about medication for firming things up if your stoma output increases or loosening
if you become constipated. Depending on where you are planning to go on holiday it is
also good to bring some medication tablet or cream to protect you from insect bites.

Hints and Tips when Travelling
Travelling by Road

Travelling by road usually does not cause any
problems because there are many roadside service
stations that have Toilet facilities if you need them.
You are entitled to use disabled toilet facilities and
the reverse side of your membership card clearly indicates you are an Ostomate.
If you are travelling in a bus or luxury coach many now have a toilet facility that you
can use if you need to and especially so if you are travelling on a long journey it is
reassuring that there is a facility.
As with all types of travel, remember to pack a travel bag and avoid leaving it in the
car / coach in warm weather to avoid the risk of adhesive melt. If you have an
insulated bag it is better if travelling in hot weather to protect your ostomy products.
Do not store items in the glove compartment as this heats up considerably.

Try and ensure that your seat belt sits across your hips rather than your abdomen
where your stoma usually lies. For extra protection there are low cost cushion
devices that slip onto the seat belt. These will make you more comfortable whilst
retaining the level of protection you need.

Travelling by Train

Most trains have toilets facilities with the exception of some local trains, Dart trains and
Luas. Irish Rail intercity trains have a disabled toilet which allows you some space and
comfort if you need to change your pouch. As with all other types of travel remember to bring a travel bag with you and avoid leaving it where it can be easily taken or lost. Not all trains have a buffet carriage or catering trolley service, so make sure you have plenty of fluids to drink and something to eat –it is really important to remain fully hydrated.

Travelling by Sea

Travelling by boat / ship / cruise liner should not be a problem as there are more than
adequate toilets available including disabled toilet.
On cruise liners the facilities usually
include medical staff that may be
able to help you in an emergency.
As with other types of travel,
remember to pack a travel bag and
avoid leaving this where it can be
easily removed or lost.

Planning to travel by air for the first time
can be a worry and we imagine all kinds of
difficulties may happen e.g.
Q. Will my pouch blow up because of
variations in cabin pressure ?
A. NO. Your pouch will behave as normal.
However, eating and drinking sensibly will
lessen the chance of wind in your pouch.

Q. What if I have to change my pouch while on the plane ?
A. Have everything you need readily accessible during the flight. Some people prefer
to wear a drainable pouch which can be drained down the toilet. If you prefer to wear
your usual closed pouch it is acceptable to wrap it well and dispose of it in the bin in
the toilet cubicle.
When booking your flight check the baggage allowance, for both ‘checked’ and
‘cabin’. If you have both, consider splitting your stoma supplies between each bag. If
you are travelling with a family member or friend consider putting some of your
stoma supplies in their check in bag in case any of your luggage goes missing.
Remember to always keep some of your ostomy appliances in your hand travel bag
and the balance in your checked-in luggage. Have your pouches pre-cut or
mouldable because scissors can only go in checked-in luggage. Airlines will vary in
relation to extra baggage allowance. Depending on each person’s circumstances, it
is important that at the time of booking you check out the baggage allowance they
are offering you. Look for the airline’s policy on extra luggage allowance for medical
supplies, this might be a subsection of Medical Equipment.
Pack as many ostomy appliances and accessories as you would normally use. There
is nothing like feeling safe to help you enjoy your holiday,
Should you be unlucky enough to suffer from diarrhoea and you normally use closed
pouches, it might be wise to pack a few drainable versions in case of emergency.
Taking an over-the-counter diarrhoea medication at the first sign of trouble will
usually stop diarrhoea in its tracks.
It is always tempting prior to flights to miss meals …do not, it simply knocks your body
out of sync. Do drink lots of fluids but avoid alcohol and fizzy drinks because the change
in air pressure, whether you have a stoma or not, can often cause wind to be an issue.
When booking your flight, if you are pre-selecting your seat, would an aisle seat suit you
better, so if/when you need to go to the toilet you are not disturbing anyone, and you can
also see where the nearest toilets are. Before flying it is recommended to empty your
drainable pouch in the departure lounge toilet whilst you are waiting to board your plane.
Seat belts must always be worn as requested. They are for your safety but try to
position yours above or below your stoma, not across if at all possible.
If you become dehydrated, sports drinks or rehydration powders are useful to
replace lost salts from perspiration and diarrhoea. Plan ahead and pack some with
your emergency supplies.

Packing your Ostomy Products
It is good to make a list of all Ostomy Products that you need to bring with you when
going on holiday. Making a prepared checklist of what you need to bring with you will
make packing your suitcase a straightforward operation.

In general it is wise to keep some of your Ostomy supplies together as hand luggage
so that you have them within reach at all times; a second more substantial quantity of supplies put in your suitcase; and a small ‘Travel Bag ‘that you can use discreetly at any toilet facility as and when needed. Some people with an Ileostomy or Urostomy pouch might be prone to anxiety about leakages during the night, Ensuring you have a plastic mattress cover or sheet will prevent the mattress being damaged and give you peace of mind.

Food and Drink
Everyone should be able to go away on holiday and indulge themselves. With an
element of planning and being sensible about food and drink, there is absolutely no
reason why you should not too.
Remember, always drink plenty of fluids especially if you are holidaying in a hot climate.
Moderate your intake of alcohol and caffeine drinks as they can lead to dehydration.
If you do become dehydrated, sports drinks and rehydration powders are useful to
replace lost salts.
Always wash your hands before and after meals to minimise the possibility of
transferring germs to your system. Always check whether the water is suitable for
drinking, if there is any doubt then use bottled water.
Wash all fruit and vegetables with bottled water and be wary of eating salads as these
might have been washed with local water. Ice cream, if traditionally made rather than
a commercial brand, can often be the cause of tummy upsets . If in doubt, it is better
to avoid it.
If you follow these tips and with a little forward planning you should have a problem
free holiday.

Airport Security and Screening
It is most important to understand that airport security is there to protect us and
ensure that we have a pleasant flying experience. Safety standards and security
screening checks are a necessary part of reassuring us that we are in a safe travelling
environment.

Medical items are separate from the usual cosmetic/toiletries allowance and
should be placed in separate transparent bags. Each bag should contain a
maximum of 1 litre of liquids/gels/sprays – 100ml size.
Please also remove all items from your person (belts, loose change from pockets)
and any other item likely to activate the security scanner. If you are required to have
additional screening you can ask to move to a more discreet area.
The OCS meet and assist service is available should a passenger require it ( a care
agent would be assigned to meet you and provide a walk through assisting with
security and on to the boarding gate. DAA (Dublin Airport Authority ) aims to offer
assistance to any passenger that requires it. They include ‘hidden disability’ in their
policy. OCS ( One Complete Solution ) is contracted by the DAA to carry out the
assistance policy. If you make your request directly with DAA or OCS, any assistance
offered will only relate to Dublin Airport. This service should be booked 48 hours in
advance if required.
You can contact DAA by phone 01 8144717 ( Customer Experience ) or by email
prm@daa.ie , or contact OCS on 01 9446104.

 

Insurance
Travel Insurance is a must when travelling abroad. Check carefully to ensure you are
not excluded by age limits or pre-existing medical conditions. If you are in any doubt
about travel insurance cover, see your insurance broker or travel agent.
Ostomates who have Health Insurance can obtain Travel Insurance on their Health
Insurance Policy.
Ostomates who do not have Private Health Insurance can obtain Travel Insurance
through
Allianz Assistance Insurance Company, 18b Beckett Way, Park West Business Campus,
Dublin 12, D12 R297. Single Trip Travel Insurance is available through Allianz for all
residents in the Republic of Ireland. There is No Age limit. However, you must be aware
that the Travel Insurance Policy will NOTPROVIDECOVER for any claims related to pre existing conditions. Allianz offer 3 levels of Travel Insurance Cover Bronze, Silver and
Gold to obtain a Quotation for Travel Insurance visit the Allianz website with the
following link – Get A Quote – Travel Insurance (allianz-assistance.ie ).You may also call
Allianz Customer Services Team on 01 6193681. For further information go to FAQ –
Frequently Asked Questions Section on the website by clicking – Travel Insurance FAQ’s /Allianz Assistance ( allianz-assistance.ie ) . Sometimes when applying for Travel
Insurance you may be requested to complete a Medical Screening Questionnaire where
you provide details of your Medical History. At present Allianz do not request Medical
Screening to obtain Travel Insurance but it may be reinstated as a condition in order to
obtain Travel Insurance Cover in the near future.
When travelling within the EU and also EEA ( European Economic Area) Iceland,
Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland your health cost is covered by your EHICCARD
( European Health Insurance Card ) or at a reduced cost. You are only covered for
treatment in a Public Hospital and repatriation would also not be covered by the EHIC
CARD.
You can obtain your EHIC CARD from your local
HSE Health Centre.
The EHIC CARD will not replace travel Insurance.
It only covers necessary healthcare.
You do not need a EHIC CARD if you are visiting the UK.
Showing proof that you are an Irish Resident ( for example, your Passport or Driving
Licence) is enough and you are covered under the NHS in the event you need medical
attention or hospitalisation

Holiday Packing
Holidays are great but packing for them can get really stressful. Worried you have
forgotten something? Cannot fit everything in you bag?
Here are the key things to make your packing hassle free!
√ Check your Passport is valid and not due to expire.
√ Book your Insurance. Insurance offers specialist
insurance for people with medical conditions.
√ Check you have enough Ostomy supplies – and extra in case you are delayed.
√ Check baggage allowance for both checked in and carry on luggage. Some
airlines allow Free of Charge a 5kg Bag containing medical supplies.
Airlines offering Free 5Kg Check in Baggage for Ostomy Medical Supplies
To avail of a free 5Kg check in bag for your Ostomy Supplies you should obtain
from either your GP, Pharmacist or Stoma Care Nurse a Declaration form of your
Ostomy Products and Medical Supplies which you need to carry with you. A
Declaration Form is available on the OAI Website or from the OAI Secretary. To
be Valid it should be dated, signed and stamped by either your GP, Pharmacist or
Stoma Care Nurse.
As all Ostomy Products and Medical supplies must travel on the same aircraft as
the customer. Air Canada will accept Ostomy Product and Medical supplies over
and beyond the normal free checked baggage allowance they are not subject to
space availability. However, if checked in as a piece of baggage which is not
required immediately on arrival they are subject to applicable excess baggage
charges. Extra baggage will be approved at the check in desk on receipt of a
Declaration Form signed and stamped by a Doctor, Pharmacist or Stoma Care
Nurse indicating the need fort he Ostomy Products and Medical supplies. This is
applicable to checked bags, carry on is limited to the regular allowance

Aer Lingus require you after making your Flight Booking and have received your
Booking Reservation Number to contact Aer Lingus Customer Services a
minimum of 48hrs before you are due to fly. Aer Lingus Customer Service
Number (01) 761 7835 In the event you are having to fly at short notice call
Customer Service at your earliest opportunity. This allows Customer Service
time to endorse your booking reservation with a note that you will have baggage
with Ostomy supplies to bring with you which will be checked in as Free Baggage
Allowance. When Checking In have your Declaration Form with you in case you
are asked to Produce it.
In the event you were unable to contact Customer Services before going to the
airport you produce your Declaration for Ostomy Products and Medical Supplies
you need to bring with you when checking in for your flight.
Ryan air request you to contact their Customer Services before flying if possible
48hrs before your departure.
A Medical Declaration Form is required to carry on Medical Supplies/Medical
Equipment onboard a Ryanair Flight,
On provision of a Medical Declaration Form certified and signed by either a
General Practitioner, Stoma Care Nurse or Pharmacist a Medical Waiver letter will
be issued.
Only items which are listed on the Medical Declaration Form will be accepted for
carriage Free of Charge.
Please ensure that these items are packed separately and available for inspection
at the airport.
Ryanair Customer Services Contact Number is
(01) 5825932
Monday to Friday 09.00 – 19.00Hrs
Saturday 09.00 – 18.00Hrs
Sunday 09.00 – 18.00Hrs

Holiday Check List
Get Prepared. A list helps you remember those important items
and plan what to take.
• Pack your Ostomy supplies in your hand luggage, some pre-cut for the
journey. Make sure you have double your normal supplies to last for the
holidays plus some extra for emergency or delayed return.
• Disposable Bags in hand luggage.
• Pack any liquids you need to take in your hand luggage
in containers that hold
no more than 100ml and put them
in a single transparent, resealable plastic
bag approximately 20cm x
20cm. Use separate bags
for Ostomy products –
gels, liquids, sprays and
separate bag – toiletries,
cosmetics. Remember
there are restrictions on
the amount of liquids you
can take in your hand
luggage.
• Take wet and dry wipes in
your hand luggage.
• Scissors in bag to go in the check in luggage.
• Pack liquid cleaners and Deodorants in your check in luggage.
• Currency • Passport
• EHIC CARD • Check your holiday insurance is adequate.
• Travel Certificate • Medication to stem diarrhoea
• Rehydration sachets

Disclaimer
The information in this article has been compiled with professional advice and every effort has been
made to provide accurate and expert information. There will not be acceptance of liabliity to any person
or entity if there is a loss or damage to any person caused directly or indirectly by the information
contained within this booklet