So starting off knowing what to pack, how much to pack and where to pack it, can be all confusing but here’s what worked for me.
So I packed double of everything and I split it all between my hand luggage and suitcase. I packed more than usual as I know from previous holidays I tend to change my bag a lot more in the heat and being in and out of the pool.
I personally didn’t carry scissors as my bags are all pre-cut (which is so handy). I packed extra Dioralyte and Imodium and this was needed as I had to up how much I took daily whilst away. I also made sure to get travel insurance that covered me with my stoma.
I travelled with my sunflower lanyard, travel certificate, which my stoma nurse signed, and a copy of my prescription.
Going through security I didn’t have any issues. Entering the scanner, I let the security know I had a stoma as this does show up on the scanner. He discreetly passed this on to the female security officer who then asked if I wanted to go into a side room so she could scan my stoma bag. I was happy to do it where I was so I was taken to the side and again this was done discreetly.
I emptied my bag before getting on the plane so whilst I was flying I didn’t have to. My bag didn’t expand like a crisp bag on the flight – nothing changed and I didn’t have to empty throughout the flight either.
On arrival to the hotel, I placed my stoma supplies in the wardrobe and our room was well ventilated and cool as we had aircon. I also carried an emergency kit in my pool bag just in case I needed it, which I didn’t.
I made sure to stay on top of fluids and electrolytes and I was in and out of the sun to make sure I didn’t get dehydrated. I was careful with my choice of food to ensure I didn’t eat anything that would have caused a blockage or caused my output to become high and loose (alcohol can also cause this).
I have now travelled to hot countries many times with my stoma and as long I prepare properly I never have any trouble and enjoy my holiday without worrying about my stoma.
