Travelling with a stoma kit | by Louise

Now everyone is different but the one thing we have in common is our stomas and the mental planning for travelling whether abroad or just away over night.

My top tips

Due to my health over the last couple of years, I have had to pack many overnight bags, for hospital admissions or travelling within the UK for a few days.

Here is what I pack when travelling for 3-4 days.

I have a fantastic toiletries bag that was provided by Respond when I joined their delivery service.

• Water wipes ( especially when wild camping)
• 2 packs of dry wipes
• Adhesive remover
• Stoma scissors
• 10 stoma bags
• 10 barrier rings
• Barrier cream
• 10 nappy bags

I typically only change my stoma twice a week, however when going away , I always pack more than I need, just to account for any situation. I also pack a Kylie, it’s a waterproof slip, it’s wide enough for me to sleep on just under my waist to my knees protecting my family’s mattresses should I happen to leak.

Hospital admissions

My last admission for surgery was back in January for my hysterectomy and a late June admission for AKI ( acute kidney injury) and dehydration caused by undiagnosed pancreatitis.

Whilst admitted the stoma nurses see me daily so pack less than if I was to go away for work or on holiday.

• 2 packs of dry wipes ( I have access to running water )
• 1 adhesive remover
• 1 barrier cream
• 5 normal stoma bags (modavi)
• 5 barrier rings
• Stoma scissors
• 5 nappy bags

I always make sure to store my supplies away from any heat source or direct sunlight as that can compromise the base plates and barrier rings.

I also carry spares in a small wash bag with enough for 3 changes , spare clean clothes & knickers in the boot of my car just in case for work as 7 years ago , I had a client ,( I’m a carer in the community ) who accidentally ripped my bag from the baseplate when I was getting her out of bed, as she managed to grab that through my uniform, thankfully I had yet to eat that day so my stoma hadn’t purged.

What do you pack in your kit? Is there anything else that can help whilst travelling?

As always,
Many thanks for reading
Louise
@crohnsfighting