5 Things To Bear In Mind If You’re Visiting An Airport This Summer

With the summer months fast approaching, lots of people are starting to think about booking their summer holidays. Whether you’re fancying a relaxing beach holiday or a fun-filled adventure holiday, you shouldn’t let your stoma get in the way of enjoying your time off this summer.

One of the primary concerns that ostomates have when it comes to travelling, is the time they spend at the airport. However, with just a few things to keep in mind, there’s no reason why your stoma should cause any issues.

Below are the key things to bear in mind when you’re at the airport.

Be prepared…

As with anything, the most important thing when it comes to travelling as an ostomate is to be prepared, simply because it helps to put your mind at ease. Make sure that you pack some supplies in your hand luggage as well as in your check-in luggage. This gives you some extra reassurance that if you need to change your bag for whatever reason you can. It may also be a good idea to change just before your flight so you feel fresher and more comfortable. It may also be a good idea to arrive at the airport early to give yourself plenty of time as this can help to take away any added stress involved with travelling.

Make sure you know where the nearest toilets are

When you’re waiting at the airport it may be a good idea to sit down somewhere near the toilets. This gives yourself some peace of mind that in case of any accidents, you can get to the toilets quickly and easily.

When you register for our GoldCare service, you’ll receive a range of additional items with your orders. One of the items that we supply is a radar key which fits disabled toilets across the UK. This could come in handy when you’re at the airport since you can use any toilet there, giving yourself some extra reassurance.

Going through security

When going through security, many ostomates worry about being searched and pat down. Airport security staff should be trained for these circumstances and there are procedures in place that screening officers should follow to make sure your privacy is maintained. For example, you don’t have to show your pouch or remove any clothing to expose it, instead, you may simply be asked to rub your hand against the pouch on the outside of your clothes.

If you do need to be searched, you can always show them your travel certificate, which explains in 10 different languages what your condition is and what supplies you are carrying.

Be mindful of what you eat and drink

Another thing to keep in mind is that the food and drink you consume can cause ballooning, therefore on the day of your travels, just be extra cautious about what you’re eating and drinking.

As always, it’s really important that you stay hydrated and it may be a good idea to avoid any fizzy drinks.

Try to relax…

Our final piece of advice is to relax and enjoy yourself, as long as you keep the things mentioned above in mind, there is no reason why your stoma should get in the way of you enjoying your time spent on holiday with loved ones.

Also, remember that if you have any concerns or worries you can speak to one of our GoldCare Nurses who will be happy to help and offer their professional advice.