Stoma Travel Bags and
Essential Tips for
Ostomy Care on the Go
A stoma travel bag is essential for anyone with a stoma. Travelling with a stoma requires careful planning and the right equipment to ensure comfort and peace of mind. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know to prepare for your journey.
What is a Stoma Travel Bag?
A stoma travel bag, also known as an ostomy travel bag, is designed to hold all the supplies you need for your ostomy in a discreet and convenient manner. These bags ensure you have everything you need, no matter where your travels take you. See below some examples of a stoma travel bag:
Key Features of a Stoma Travel Bag
When choosing a stoma travel bag, it is recommended to consider the following key features:
- Compact design: Small enough to fit into larger luggage or be carried as a standalone bag.
- Multiple compartments: Several compartments and pockets to organise and separate different supplies, such as pouches, flanges and wipes.
- Water-resistant material: Made from durable, water-resistant material to protect supplies from moisture and spills.
- Easy access: Quick access compartments allow for easy access to your supplies.
- Neutral appearance: Designed to look like a regular travel or cosmetic bag, ensuring discretion when needed.
- Portable: Lightweight with a handle for easy carrying. Ostomy travel bags with shoulder straps can be practical and help with transporting your supplies.
- Hygienic: Easy to clean the interior lining.
Essential Contents for Your Stoma Travel Bag
Packing the right items isn’t always easy. Here are some suggestions for your stoma travel bag:
- Extra pouches: Always have backups in case of emergencies.
- Adhesive removers and skin barrier wipes: To keep your skin clean and irritation free.
- Disposal bags: For hygienic and discreet disposal of used pouches. Odour proof disposal bags are popular amongst many ostomates.
- Hand sanitisers: To maintain hygiene on the go, these are useful for public transport and bathrooms.
- Change of clothes: So you are prepared for any leaks or accidents.
- Tissues and a bottle of water: Allows for easy clean-up.
For more information on how to prepare and what to take when travelling with a stoma, read our article here.
Organising Your Ostomy Travel Bag
Organising your ostomy travel bag is crucial for a smooth and stress free travel experience.
First, group similar items together such as pouches, flanges and cleaning supplies, to make them easier to find.
Use the different sections in the stoma travel bag to organise your supplies, so you can easily find what you need. Labelling these sections can further enhance organisation, allowing you to identify each item at a glance.
Keep frequently used items in easily accessible pockets, and store less frequently needed supplies in deeper compartments.
Regularly check and update the contents of your bag to ensure you are always prepared.
By maintaining a well-organised ostomy travel bag, you can focus more on enjoying your journey and less on managing your supplies.
Customising your Stoma Travel Bag
Customising your bag can significantly improve your travel experience. Begin by personalising to fit your specific needs, ensuring it has all the compartments and features you need.
You can add extra compartments or pockets to better organise your supplies and make them more accessible. Consider using DIY tips, such as attaching small pouches or using velcro strips, to create additional storage spaces.
Adding personal touches, like a favourite colour or pattern, can also make your bag more enjoyable to use.
By customising your stoma travel bag, you can ensure it perfectly meets your needs and preferences, making your travels smoother and more comfortable.
Top Tips for Stoma Care when Travelling
Here are some top tips for stoma care on the go to help you stay comfortable and calm.
- Carry-on essentials: Always keep your ostomy travel bag in your hand luggage
- Overpack supplies: Bring more than you think you’ll need, especially for long trips.
- Research destinations: Know where to access ostomy supplies at your destination.
Security and Privacy Tips
- Airport Security: Carry a medical notification card and be ready to explain your condition if needed. You can learn more about where to find these cards here.
- Built-in privacy: Select bags with privacy features to keep your supplies discreet.
Choosing a stoma travel bag that combines a compact design, multiple compartments and discreet features, ensures that all your essential supplies are organised and easily accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions about Stoma Travel Bags
Do you want to know more about Stoma travel bags? If so, read these frequently asked questions from ostomates below and find essential information and practical tips.
How do I know if a stoma travel bag is suitable for air travel?
When choosing a stoma travel bag for air travel, ensure it complies with airline regulations for carry-on luggage.
Additionally, keep essential supplies like extra pouches and adhesive removers readily accessible. Consider packing a medical notification card to present to security if needed.
Are there specific ostomy travel bags designed for different types of ostomates?
Yes, there are stoma travel bags designed to accommodate various types of ostomies, such as colostomies, ileostomies, and urostomies. Some bags come with specialised compartments or features tailored to the unique needs of each type of stoma.
When selecting a bag, consider your specific ostomy type and ensure the bag’s design and compartments can adequately store and protect the supplies you need.
Consulting with an ostomy care professional can help you choose the most suitable bag for your condition.
How can I maintain the hygiene of my stoma travel bag during and after travel?
To maintain the hygiene of your ostomy travel bag, regularly clean the interior with a mild detergent or disinfectant wipe to remove any residue or spills.
If the bag’s material allows, you can also machine wash or hand wash it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
During travel, keep the bag in a clean and dry place to prevent contamination. Consider using disposable liners or pouches within the bag to keep the contents sanitary and minimise direct contact with the bag’s interior.
Can I use a regular travel bag instead of a stoma travel bag?
You can use a regular travel bag, however a stoma travel bag is recommended as they are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of ostomates. Stoma travel bags offer multiple compartments for organising supplies like pouches, flanges, and wipes and are made from water resistant materials to protect your items.
They also provide quick access sections for easy retrieval of supplies and feature discreet, neutral appearances.
Using a dedicated ostomy travel bag can ensure better organisation, hygiene, and ease of access compared to a standard travel bag, making your travel experience more convenient and stress free.
Please note: The information throughout these pages should be used as a guide only. Please consult your GP or medical professional for further information about your condition.
