What are some tips to make traveling with IBD easier?

I say always be prepared. Bring your emergency kit with foods you can eat, medications, wet wipes, toilet potpourri, hand sanitizer, adult diapers, and extra medical supplies you might need. Be prepared for the worst. Always. You don't need more to stress about. And if you don't feel up for a trip, don't force it. Take a rain check.

As mentioned previously, preparation is key. Outside of items that you can bring with you, it's smart to think about the travel itself. If you are flying, be sure to give yourself plenty of time before your flight departs in case you need some time to rest, need to make a stop at the bathroom, and for those with an ostomy or with other medical supplies in your carry on, it might take longer to get through the security checkpoint. Also, you might choose an aisle seat on the plane, so that you have easy access to the restroom. If you are driving, map out some of your stops ahead of time. Know where the rest stops are in case you need the rest room or just need to rest or stretch your legs. And know where the rest stops AREN'T so you can be sure to stop before you get to a long stretch that doesn't have options to stop. If you are traveling with others, you can talk to them ahead of time so they know you might need to stop more often than they usually do. This can be especially important if another person is driving. Make sure they know that if you ask them to pull over, they need to do so immediately. Planning ahead won't take all of the stress out of the trip, but it can definitely help.

If you are in Europe, my advice is make sure you have a few euros with you at all times. Why? Because the charge you for the bathroom! That's right. You don't pay, you don't go. End of story.

Also, another great tip is to try to plan your meals around times when you will be near a bathroom. For example, if you are on a road trip, don't eat much while driving. Eat more when in your hotel. Then you can hit a bathroom after easily. On the road, you could be in a jam.

There are many others. But that is a start.

Best,
Matt (Team Member)