13 Tips For Traveling with IBD

Traveling with IBD is tough

You want to participate and enjoy, but unfortunately you have more on your plate to worry about than the average bear. Fact is, for a lot of us traveling can cause a lot of stress and anxiety. Over the years I've learned a few things about traveling with IBD. Some things that have helped overcome some of the anxiety I usually face with the whole traveling business. I hope this helps you too!

1. Plan It Out:

   Obviously if you're traveling you won't be able to plan for everything. Plan as much as you can. Even having an idea of the places you will be each day can ease a lot of the worry.

2. Emergency Contact:

   Always keep your emergency contact information on you. You never know what can happen, better to be over-prepared than under.

3. Doctor's Information:

   I always have my doctor's information in my wallet and phone in case of an emergency. If something happens, its always good to have the information of the physician who knows your medical history best.

4. Bathroom Apps:

   Having bathroom apps on your phone can help give you quick guidance for those unanticipated, urgent bathroom trips. - Usually they are free and downloadable right from your app store!

5. Medicine Organizer:

   You can get these right from your local dollar store. They are super convenient and helpful when it comes to storing your medications on the go.

6. IBD Bathroom Pass:

   You can order bathroom access passes on IBD websites like the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation. These passes can be shown in locations that may not (normally) offer public restroom access.

7. Snacks:

   Pack diet-friendly snacks just in case you're stuck somewhere you can't eat or don't like what the flight attendants offer.

8. Bags:

   Always keep extra bags for various reasons, (including throwing out clothes). Don't be ashamed; we've all been there.

9. Water Bottles:

   You can't bring drinks through security before your flight so it's helpful to have an empty water bottle handy to fill before you board the plane.

10. Be Comfortable:

    Try to avoid doing things that cause you stress, anxiety or overall make you uncomfortable. Stress can certainly be an easy trigger leading to a flare.

11. Heating Pad:

    I can't speak for anyone else, but my heating pad has been a lifesaver when it comes to resting after a long flight / day of travel. Sitting up for long periods of time can make my stomach very uncomfortable and just cause my body a great deal of pain all together. Packing my heating pad helps to relieve those aches and pains.

12. Make Lists:

    Before you start packing, make a list of things you need including medications and supplies. Put the things you use / take most often at the top of the list. This way you won't forget them and they'll be the first thing in your bag.

13. Don't Forget Your Moisturizer!:

    After having surgery the skin on my stomach is super raw and gets especially bad with climate changes. I have a tendency to forget to take care of my skin on the road, but sometimes simply packing my non-scented moisturizer does the trick!