Navigating air travel and airport security with an ostomy can feel intimidating at first. However, with the right preparation, things shouldn't be too different from before your surgery. Here, we'll discuss what to expect from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), how screenings work, and how to travel with ostomy supplies to help make the experience less stressful.
Quick Overview: Traveling Through Airport Security with an Ostomy
- You can safely fly with an ostomy bag, and most people with an ileostomy, colostomy, or urostomy travel without major issues.
- Ostomy supplies are considered medical supplies, meaning you can bring pouches, skin barriers, and other ostomy care items in your carry-on luggage.
- Airport body scanners may detect an ostomy pouch, but TSA officers are trained to handle additional screening procedures discreetly and professionally.
- Packing extra ostomy supplies and organizing them ahead of time can help reduce stress and make airport security checks smoother.
- Traveling internationally with an ostomy may require additional preparation, including bringing extra supplies, staying hydrated, and researching airport security regulations before your trip.
Can You Fly With an Ostomy Bag?
Yes, you can absolutely fly with an ostomy bag. Many people with an ileostomy, colostomy, or urostomy travel regularly for work, vacations, and family visits without major issues. However, as a new ostomate, the first time through airport security may feel a bit stressful. Therefore, it's good to familiarize yourself with what to expect before flying with a stoma.
Is It Safe to Travel By Plane With an Ostomy?
Airplane cabin pressure generally doesn't harm the stoma or pouching system, although some people may notice a slight increase in gas inside the ostomy pouch during flights. This is normal and can usually be managed by emptying your pouch before takeoff and avoiding foods that commonly cause excess gas. Regardless, if you recently had ostomy surgery or are experiencing complications, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider before flying.
Do Ostomy Supplies Count as Medical Supplies?
Yes, ostomy supplies are classified as medical supplies, which means you can bring them in your carry-on luggage. This may include:
- Ostomy pouches
- Skin barriers or wafers
- Adhesive remover
- Ostomy powder or paste
- Disposal bags
- Medical scissors (if permitted under TSA guidelines)
However, you still need to adhere to the general rules and guidelines set forth by domestic or international flights (i.e., scissor size and liquid limitations). If you do need larger quantities of supplies that must be carried on the plane, you have to declare them at the security checkpoint, and they may be subject to additional screening.
Can TSA Scanners Detect an Ostomy Bag?
Advanced imaging technology used in body scanners may detect an ostomy pouch or the medical supplies attached to your abdomen, but metal detectors don't. If necessary, TSA officers may ask you to perform additional screening procedures, such as a brief pat-down or swabbing your hands or the outside of the pouch for testing. This is a routine part of airport security, but it doesn't mean there's a problem.
Do I Need to Tell TSA About a Stoma Bag?
No, you are not required to tell TSA agents that you have a stoma bag before going through airport security. Many people with an ostomy simply proceed through standard screening without mentioning it unless additional screening is needed.
How to Prepare for Travel With an Ostomy
Preparing ahead of time can make going through security feel far less overwhelming, but it doesn't take a whole lot to get ready. Once you know what to expect, you'll likely feel less stressed and ready to go. The following are some of the most relevant travel tips, whether you're traveling internationally or domestically.
Pack More Ostomy Supplies Than You Think You'll Need
Flight delays, canceled connections, and travel disruptions can happen unexpectedly, so it’s always best to bring extra ostomy supplies. Many travelers recommend packing at least twice the amount of supplies you would normally use during your trip. This may include:
- Extra ostomy pouches
- Skin barriers or wafers
- Adhesive remover wipes
- Disposal bags
- Ostomy powder or paste
- Cleaning supplies
- A spare set of clothing
Keep Ostomy Supplies in Your Carry-on Luggage
When traveling with an ostomy, keep your essential supplies in your carry-on luggage rather than checked baggage. If checked luggage gets delayed or lost, having immediate access to your medical supplies can prevent a stressful situation.
Organize Supplies for Easier Security Checks
Keeping your ostomy supplies organized can help simplify the TSA screening process. Some travelers use separate travel pouches or clear bags to make medical items easier to access if security officers need to inspect them. It may help to:
- Store medical supplies together
- Keep liquids and gels easy to reach
- Separate ostomy supplies from other personal items
- Place frequently used items near the top of your bag
Dress Comfortably for Travel
Loose, comfortable clothing can make traveling with an ostomy easier, especially on longer flights. Tight waistbands or restrictive clothing may place pressure on the stoma or pouching system and become uncomfortable during long periods of sitting. Many travelers also prefer clothing that allows easy access to the ostomy pouch in case it needs to be emptied before boarding or during the flight.
Empty Your Ostomy Pouch Before Security
Before going through airport security, it’s a good idea to empty your ostomy pouch if possible. A less full pouch may feel more comfortable during screening and can help reduce anxiety about leaks or pouch ballooning while waiting in line.
Consider Carrying a TSA Notification Card
Although you are not required to tell TSA agents about your ostomy, some travelers feel more comfortable carrying a TSA notification card, ostomy travel certificate, or a UOAA travel communication card. These cards discreetly explain that you have a medical device or ostomy pouch and may help simplify communication during screening. If you have a travel companion, they can typically be present with you during additional screenings, but airport rules may vary.
According to the TSA website, "You can be screened without having to empty or expose the ostomy pouch during Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT), a walk-through metal detector (WTMD), or a pat-down screening. Please inform a TSA officer that you have an ostomy pouch before you enter the screening area. The ostomy pouch is subject to additional screening and may require you to conduct a self-pat-down of the ostomy pouch outside of your clothing, followed by a test of your hands for any trace of explosives. You may also undergo a standard pat-down of areas that will not include the ostomy pouch."
You can find additional resources at the United Ostomy Association of America (UOAA) website.
Notify TSA in Advance
Some travelers with an ostomy feel more comfortable notifying TSA in advance about their medical condition before arriving at the airport. While this isn't necessarily required, it can help reduce anxiety and make the screening process feel more predictable.
One option is to use TSA Cares, a program designed to assist travelers with medical conditions, disabilities, or special medical needs. You can contact TSA Cares before your trip to ask questions about the screening process and learn what to expect at airport security.
Traveling Internationally With an Ostomy
Traveling internationally may require a little extra planning, but many people are able to fly comfortably and confidently abroad. Here are a few tips to help:
- Research airport security and medical supply regulations for the countries you’ll be visiting
- Carry a TSA notification card or a translated medical travel card if language barriers may be a concern
- Bring a small travel kit with extra pouches, wipes, disposal bags, and a change of clothes for long travel days
- Stay hydrated, especially during long-haul flights or when traveling to hot climates
- Be mindful of unfamiliar foods that could increase gas, diarrhea, or ostomy output
- Store ostomy supplies in a cool, dry location to help protect adhesives and skin barriers during travel
- Know where restrooms are located in airports and during long sightseeing days
- Consider purchasing travel insurance if you have ongoing medical concerns related to your ostomy care
When to Talk to Your Doctor Before Flying With an Ostomy
While most people can safely travel with an ostomy, it's important to talk to your doctor before a trip, especially if you're going somewhere internationally. They can help ensure you're ready for air travel and provide recommendations or references for emergencies. Talking to your doctor ahead of time may also help ease anxiety if you are flying for the first time after surgery or traveling internationally.
Having the right ostomy supplies can help make travel more comfortable and less stressful. Byram Healthcare offers a wide range of ostomy products delivered directly to your door so you can feel prepared before your next trip.
