Navigating airport security as an ostomate | by Kevin
As someone who travels for work, I thought I would share some of my experiences to support others when it comes to navigating airport security. Whether you are a seasoned flyer like me, or this is your first flight post-surgery these practical tips will hopefully keep you feeling more confident and well prepared.
What to expect at the airport
For me I like to know that the airport experience is going to be a quick one. I always purchase a fast-track security pass this ensures that im not waiting or standing in long queues this can also be achieved by going to the accessibility desk at the airport and discussing with them your requirements. I find it a lot easier to purchase the fast past and make my way to the security area.
I always make sure that I have been to the toilet before this process as I just feel more comfortable that when a security person is checking my bag, it’s not full and doesn’t make me feel awkward.
One thing to remember is the security staff are trained to handle medical devices and support individuals with additional needs. The more I’ve got comfortable the more I’ve spoken to staff about my stoma bag and they are aware of more and more people with these devices.
They have a job to do purely based on safety, it may feel sometimes, as I did, quite personal and an invasion of privacy, but it is their job. I have had differing experiences some airports – I’ve been taken to a room to have this checked and completed a form, while others I’ve just had a swab taken around the waistband I wear. All of this is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about.
In some countries, it’s a lot easier if you carry a travel certificate with you. This explains the medical condition and also the stoma products that you may be carrying with you such as scissors for cutting your bag, or sprays for removing your bag. It can be shown to staff in their language to help avoid lengthy explanations. You can request a travel certificate from your stoma nurse or your healthcare provider. I requested mine from my stoma nurse who completed this for me and had this stamped by the hospital to confirm its authenticity.
5 top tips to remember
- Arrive early
- Think about your clothing
- If needed, make staff aware
- Use fast-track or accessible travel arrangements while at the airport
- Finally, enjoy your holiday or journey
Remember, you are not the first ostomate to fly – thousands of people with stomas fly or travel each year. You are definitely not alone in this experience and although at first you may feel nervous or worried it’s definitely something not to be embarrassed about. My main points to remember are to stay calm, plan ahead and remember where you are going to. This is a minor experience to the one you have overcome.
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