I have to admit that after having my stoma in 2012, I was nervous about travelling in general but even more anxious about how I would cope with the whole airport thing. Having travelled abroad quite a few times since then, to various different countries, I think I can safely say that I have conquered any fears I had. The secret is in the planning and careful preparation; remember the 4 ‘P’s…
Top tip 1: The paperwork
- Sort out travel insurance. It is crucial that you are honest about your condition and that your insurance is fit for purpose.
- Flight booking – ensure that when you book your flight, any assistance you may require at the airport is factored in. Also selecting your seat in advance might be helpful if you think sitting in an aisle seat would help you should you need the toilet on the flight.
- Get a GHIC card – this is free and you can order it online. This allows you to access state provided medical care in EU countries.
- Keep a copy of your latest repeat prescription and a list of the products you require for your ostomy as well as the supplier’s details.
- A travel certificate, a fantastic thing to have with you when you travel. This little document can be obtained from your supplier and all you need to do is have your details verified by your GP, (my surgery stamped and signed the first page where required) and then information regarding your ostomy is explained for airport staff in many of the world’s languages. Check here for a digital download or a physical copy.
Top tip 1: Packing
- Have enough supplies to hand – there’s nothing worse than finding out you haven’t got enough pouches or removal spray to take away!
- Pack at least a few days’ worth of supplies in your carry-on luggage – you don’t want to be without your supplies if your hold luggage gets lost. If you check with the airline you may be able to carry your medical supplies on in addition to another piece of hand luggage.
- Accessibility check – make sure that any supplies you are taking on the plane with you are easily available for airport staff to check them if necessary. It might be worth checking the liquids rule too as the 100ml allowance has been updated it some airports.
Top tip 3: Pre-travel (i.e. at the airport)
- Be prepared for security – I have been fortunate enough to take part in staff training sessions recently at Cardiff Airport to see the new CT scanners that are being rolled out and have seen first hand how they work. It is important to remember that the body scanners are there to identify any potential threat to the plane and its passengers. A ‘gingerbread man’ type image appears on the screen as you walk through the scanner and if there is an anomaly, a yellow rectangle appears in the place where it has been detected. This means that those of us with an ostomy will probably need to be checked further.
- Wear a two piece outfit for travelling – this will make security checks less stressful. Last year I went through one of the new CT scanners in Heathrow and was asked to wait at the side for a medical practitioner to conduct a check. But as I was able to produce my travel certificate and show my bag, I wasn’t asked for anything further. On the return from Belgrade, I wasn’t asked to show anything so it really is a matter of where you are travelling to and from. But be prepared as in future you may be required to go into a room to be checked privately although this will be discreet and non-invasive.
- Empty your pouch before going through airport security – there are not likely to be toilets in the security area so long queues could mean that you won’t have a chance to do so until the other side. You don’t want to lose your place in the queue by having to return to landside!
- Ensure supplies and your travel certificate are easily accessible – this saves a lot of fuss and stress!
Top tip 4: The plane
- Empty your pouch before boarding – this will make you feel more comfortable and you wont have to visit the aeroplane toilet for a while, if at all.
- Stay hydrated – try to avoid fizzy drinks to reduce the risk of your pouch ballooning; stick to water or even an isotonic drink.
- Stick to light meals or snacks – even before you fly, this will give you peace of mind and make you feel more comfortable during the flight.
The important thing to remember is that while your ostomy means a new way of life, this doesn’t mean that life is any more restricted than you make it. Travel is possible, it’s fun, it’s important and enjoyable. Try not to overthink the Airport scenario and as long as you are prepared there really is nothing to worry about. My advice? Don’t let having a stoma ruin what should be a fantastic holiday and an amazing experience.
