The summer is well and truly on its way and now is the time that lots of people are starting to plan their summer holidays. Whether you’re planning a city break, an active and adventurous holiday or just a relaxing beach holiday in the sun, you should be able to enjoy yourself without your stoma getting in the way.
The main thing to remember when it comes to travelling with a stoma is to be prepared, plan ahead and take enough supplies with you. Whatever you decide to do on your summer holidays, with just a few things in mind, there’s no reason why you can’t relax and have a great holiday with your family or friends. Below is our advice for travelling as an ostomate.
Advice for flying
First things first, when it comes to booking your plane ticket, it’s a good idea to select a seat that’s located as close to the toilets as possible. By doing this, you’re giving yourself some extra reassurance, taking away any concerns you may have, and helping you to feel more relaxed and comfortable throughout the flights. Just make sure that you carry your supplies with you in your hand luggage!
During your flight, there is a potential risk that the air pressure will cause your bag to balloon if this happens you just need to go to the toilet and let the air out. Another thing to bear in mind is that the food and drink you consume can cause ballooning, so on the day of your travels, just be extra cautious about what you’re eating and drinking.
It may also be a good idea to choose a product that makes you feel the most comfortable. Our Primo range provides extra security and reassurance, along with the soft cover and anatomical shape for added comfort. Available in both drainable and closed options and in mini, midi and maxi sizes.
The impact of warm weather
If you’re expecting hot weather in your chosen holiday destination, you’re likely to perspire slightly more than you usually would. If this happens, all you need to do is change your pouch a bit more often than you typically would.
Just another thing to bear in mind, when you’re applying a new bag make sure your skin is dry and free from sun cream to make sure it sticks as it should.
When you’re away on your holidays, we suggest keeping your supplies in a cool place and out of the sun to prevent damaging the adhesive.
Tips for beachwear and swimming
If you’ve decided on a holiday in the sun this summer, you may be unsure about what to wear to the beach or pool. The most important thing is to wear something that you’re comfortable in and that makes you feel good. Some people aren’t too bothered about showing their bag, whereas others would rather hide it. If you do want to cover your bag, a great way to do this is with a sarong or a wrap.
If you fancy a dip in the pool or sea during your holiday, you just need to make sure that the wafer is stuck down properly before you dive in. Bear in mind as well that the water can affect the adhesion, so be sure to change your bag more often than you usually would.
It’s even more important that you keep yourself hydrated during your holiday in hot weather, so make sure that you’re drinking enough liquids! Additionally, if you’re going somewhere you’ve never been before, spend some time doing some research to make sure you’re aware of where the nearest toilets are in case of any issues.
Wherever you decide to go this summer, don’t let your stoma stop you from relaxing and enjoying your holiday. As long as you keep a few things in mind, you’ll still be able to have a great time with your friends and family this summer.
Visit our website to order your FREE samples today, https://www.oakmed.co.uk/ or call us on Freephone 0800 592 786
