Your stoma doesn't have to prevent you from travelling.

Warm climate

If the climate is warm or humid enough to make you perspire more than usual, your stoma barrier might lose adhesion and you may need to change your pouch more frequently.

Make sure your skin is completely dry before you apply a new barrier for good adhesion. It can be a bit tricky if the weather is very hot and humid – if drying your skin is difficult, you can use a hairdryer on low heat to dry the area (but be careful that it does not get too hot and keep it away from the stoma itself).

Sun lotion

Apply sunscreen after you put on your barrier, as the lotion could affect the baseplate and make it harder to stick. Read about applying sunscreen in the 'use sunscreen' section.

Storage

We recommend that your supplies are stored in a cool place, it's best not to leave your ostomy products in the car for long periods during hot weather, since the heat may damage the adhesion.

Talk to your stoma nurse – and get the products you need

When spending time in a warmer climate you might need a few more products than usual. For some people a skin barrier that helps the adhesive stick better can be very helpful, and if it is the edges not sticking properly an elastic tape can be a possible solution. Some benefit from using an antiperspirant on the skin in the area to be covered by the adhesive.

It is always a good idea to talk to your stoma nurse before going if you have any questions. You are also welcome to contact one of our call specialists on 1800 653 317.

What should you wear to the beach or to go swimming?

The most important thing is that you wear something that makes you feel good. Some people do not mind showing their stoma pouch when going to the beach, whereas some prefer covering it up. Do what makes you feel the best. Unfortunately, buying specialty swimwear is no guarantee of a good fit. On the other hand, you might be able to find regular swimwear that fits your needs perfectly. 

On the beach, a sarong or wrap can be a great way to gracefully cover up without feeling out of place.

And if you would like to wear a bikini – you should.

Swimming

Always make sure that the baseplate is sticking properly before going swimming – give it some time after applying. Be aware that the water can affect the adhesion negatively, so make sure to change your product more frequently if needed. For some people it can be helpful to use accessories when going swimming – using a skin barrier that helps the adhesive stick better can be very helpful, and if it’s the edges not sticking properly an elastic tape can be a possible solution.

It is always a good idea to talk to your stoma nurse before going swimming  if you have any questions. You are also welcome to contact one of our call specialists on 1800 653 317. 

Before you go

When selecting your seat, it might be a good idea to request a seat near the toilet as it might help take away some of your concerns and make you feel more confident as well.

You will not be allowed to take scissors in your hand luggage so we recommend that you cut all your baseplates to the right size before you fly.

Going through security

The security scanner might detect your pouch, but you do not have to show it, and security should not ask you to remove clothing to see it or ask if they can touch it. You may be asked to rub your hand against the pouch on the outside of your clothes, but that should be the extent of the examination. If you sign in to get the travel certificate available on this page, it will explain your condition, the medical supplies you are carrying and why you might need support and privacy.

In the air

There is a slight risk that the pressure will cause the pouch to balloon. If this should happen all you need to do is go into the bathroom and take out the air. And remember that just as often ballooning is caused by something you ate or drank – so when you're flying be extra careful with carbonated drinks. If you are a little self-conscious about noise from the pouch, you will be pleasantly surprised by how noisy an airplane cabin is.

Did you know that skin can burn in just 15 minutes in the summer sun?

Staying in the shade is an effective way to reduce sun exposure. You can use trees or built shade structures, or take your own umbrella.

Whatever you use for shade, make sure it casts a dark shadow. Even though you are trying to stay in the shade, it is still recommended that you use other protection such as clothing, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.

These guidelines are not exhaustive and you should always seek advice and guidance from professional if you have any doubts.

What you need to know about sunscreen

• Slop on broad spectrum, water resistant SPF 30+ (or higher) – SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays.
• Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors.
• Apply every two hours afterwards.
• Apply sunscreen liberally – at least a teaspoon for each limb, front and back of the body and half a teaspoon for the face, neck and ears.
• Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen resulting in only 50-80% of the protection stated on the product.
• Sunscreen should never be used to extend the time you spend in the sun.

What does SPF and water resistant mean?

• SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and is a measure of how well it protects the skin from sunburn. A 30 SPF sunscreen would provide 30 times the protection of no sunscreen. Sunscreens need to be applied liberally to achieve the SPF protection claimed on the label.
• Water resistant means that it does not come off the skin during swimming or exercise, provided it is not wiped off. The FDA defines water resistant sunscreen as meaning that the SPF level stays effective after 40 minutes in the water. While a label may state a sunscreen is '4 hours water resistant', sunscreen still needs to be applied every two hours to maintain the same level of protection and if you are taking a dip regularly you also need to reapply.

These guidelines are not exhaustive and you should always seek advice and guidance from professional if you have any doubts.

How do you know that your sunglasses are UV-blocking?

UV-blocking sunglasses are important for protecting the delicate skin around the eyes, as well as the eyes themselves, so here are a few tips before buying new ones.

• The ideal sunglasses should block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
• There will most likely be a label on the glasses stating they protect against UV rays – if in doubt ask an optician.*
• Darker glasses are not necessarily better because UV protection comes from an invisible chemical in or applied to the lenses, not from the colour or darkness of the lenses. 
• Sunglasses should be worn outside during daylight hours.
• Sunglasses are as important for children as they are for adults. 

*The standards may differ from country to country so it's best to ask at home before you go overseas.

These guidelines are not exhaustive and you should always seek advice and guidance from professional if you have any doubts.