Traveling, to most people, brings joy, peace, and relaxation. However, for those living with inflammatory bowel disease, going away from the comfort of their home can be troublesome. Things that others may not even think about, like their food options and finding restrooms at public places, can fuel their anxiety, which then puts them at a higher risk for a flare-up.
Traveling with IBD can be difficult. But, don’t let the disease ruin your travel plans. Whether you’re traveling for work or leisure, planning ahead can make things a lot easier. Here are some helpful tips to make traveling with IBD easier:
Talk to Your Doctor
This may seem like a no-brainer. But, a lot of people tend to ignore or overlook the importance of talking to their doctor before traveling, especially when they’re going away only for a short time. Never do that. Whether you’re going away for a long holiday or a day trip, always talk to your doctor.
Your doctor can help you set reasonable expectations for your trip, guide you on what medications you should carry, what food to eat and avoid, the kinds of activities you can safely perform, and how to deal with an unexpected flare-up.
Plan ahead
When traveling with IBD, it's important to plan ahead to ensure a comfortable and stress-free trip. This includes making sure you have enough medication and supplies to last the duration of your trip, mapping out bathroom locations and breaks on your route, and researching food options at your destination.
Find an IBD Doctor at Your Destination
With IBD, you never know when things will get out of control. Therefore, it’s best to be prepared for an emergency situation. Do some research on your destination and find a couple of IBD doctors there. Your doctor may also help you with it. Note down their details somewhere you can easily access and have them with you all the time.
Pack a Go-Bag
Packing can be a challenge when living with IBD, but it's important to have all the necessary supplies on hand. Prepare a small go-bag and carry it everywhere. Even if you’re leaving your hotel for an hour, take your go-bag along. Pack in it everything that you may need to deal with an IBD emergency, depending on your condition and symptoms.
Some of the essential items to include in your IBD go-back are:
Medications
Wipes
Extra underwear and/or adult diapers (if you use them or feel you might need them)
Water or oral solutions to prevent dehydration
Wand sanitizer
Tissue
An extra outfit in your go-bag
Choose your mode of transportation wisely
Different modes of transportation can have varying levels of accessibility to restrooms, which is especially important for those with IBD. When planning your trip, consider whether a car, train, or airplane will be the best option for your needs.
Look for Bathrooms
Having IBD means you may need to go to bathroom anywhere, anytime. To save yourself from any emergency or embarrassing situation, it is best that you know where the bathrooms are, at every place you go to. Look around for bathroom signs, ask a local, or download a bathroom locating app. You can also carry a bathroom necessity card to skip lines at public restrooms.
In addition to this, it’s also recommended to book an aisle seat or a seat close to the bathroom on the airplane. If traveling by road, look up for public restrooms on the way beforehand. You will find plenty of trip planning guides with these details.
Stay hydrated
Dehydration can worsen IBD symptoms, so it's important to stay hydrated when traveling. This means drinking plenty of water and avoiding caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.
Communicate with your travel companions
If you're traveling with friends or family, make sure to communicate your needs and any potential issues. Let them know if you need to take a break to use the restroom or if you're not feeling well. This can help prevent misunderstandings and make the trip more enjoyable for everyone.
The Final Word
Traveling with IBD can feel overwhelming. But, don’t let the disease stop you from pursuing your dreams and if that includes traveling, whether for work or passion, there shouldn’t be anything stopping you. Just make sure to plan ahead and use these tips to make your travels a little easier with IBD. By following these tips and being proactive, you can enjoy your travels and have a great trip. Remember to be patient with yourself, and take care of your body along the way.
If you have any additional tips or strategies for traveling with IBD, we encourage you to share them with others in the IBD community. By sharing our experiences and knowledge, we can help each other navigate the ups and downs of living with IBD. So whether it's through social media, support groups, or just talking to friends and family, don't be afraid to share what works for you. Together, we can make traveling with IBD a more manageable and enjoyable experience.
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