7 Essential Travel Tips for People with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

The good news is with the correct preparation, you can confidently enjoy your next trip. 

Here are seven essential travel tips to help you manage your IBD while on the go, courtesy of our board-certified gastroenterology team at Bay Area Gastroenterology Associates, LLC.

1. Plan ahead

Research your destination thoroughly before you leave. For example, if you plan a boating excursion, check if the boat has restrooms aboard. 

Knowing where to find medical help and bathroom facilities can ease your mind and help you respond quickly to flare-ups. 

You can also research the following:

• Identify the locations of nearby hospitals and pharmacies
• Check the menu at restaurants before you visit and avoid foods that may trigger a flare-up
• Choose a hotel close to a grocery store (so you’re not stuck with take-out or fast food)
• Locate a camping site that includes restrooms 

This research goes a long way to reduce anxiety about traveling with IBD.

2. Pack a carry-on bag

While you probably already know you need to bring enough medication for your entire trip, consider packing extra days’ worth in case of delays. Keep your medications in original containers and pack them in your carry-on bag to avoid losing them.

In addition to your medication, consider stocking your carry-on bag with a few toiletry essentials, such as wet wipes, an extra pair of underwear, and a wet bag. If you have a long flight or extended travel, you may feel extra confident with a pair of absorbent underwear. 

If you’d like a doctor's note for travel, let us know before you leave.

3. Maintain your routine

Any vacation can throw off your routine so aim to keep your regular eating and sleeping schedule. If you typically eat small meals every 2-3 hours, stick with that schedule on your trip.

4. Bring a refillable water bottle 

Travel can lead to dehydration, exacerbating IBD symptoms. Drink plenty of water throughout your trip, especially if you're flying, as airplane cabins can be dehydrating.

When offered in-flight beverages, stick with water and avoid caffeine and alcohol.

5. Choose your food wisely and bring snacks

When traveling, the most convenient foods are often the worst for IBD: greasy fast food, dairy-laden or rich meals, or heavily processed snacks. Bring safe foods to tide you over if you can’t find anything besides fast food — often the case in airports!

Beyond snacks, be cautious with unfamiliar meals or foods, as they can trigger symptoms. Stick with well-cooked meals and avoid raw or undercooked foods, particularly in areas where food safety is a concern. 

If traveling abroad, ask in the local language if foods contain your triggers, such as dairy. You can also use several translator apps to assist you. 

If possible, stay at accommodations with kitchen facilities to prepare your meals. You may find it less stressful to shop at a local store and pack easy, safe meals for yourself.

6. Be prepared for emergencies

Have a plan in place for emergencies. Carry a list of your medications, your doctor’s contact information, and health insurance coverage details. 

Bring an emergency bag in your day pack. Load a Zip-loc plastic bag with panties, wipes, extra incontinence underwear, and hand sanitizer to be ready for a worst-case scenario.

If traveling internationally, research how to get medical assistance in the local language and know the local emergency numbers.

Even without IBD, it’s good to carry this information with you. Keep these materials in a safe place, along with your passport.

7. Talk to your travel group

Inform your travel companions about your condition and how they can support you, including locating the nearest restrooms, your dietary restrictions, and patience needed if you have to rest or change plans suddenly.

If you’re traveling with a large group, you don’t need to talk to everyone, though having a private conversation with your tour group leader may be beneficial for review of menus or requesting a seat nearest the on-bus restroom.

If you’re traveling for work, let your Human Resources (HR) or travel coordinator know about your dietary restrictions. 

Bonus tip: schedule a check-up

With thoughtful preparation, you can manage your IBD and enjoy your travels. You don’t need to manage this on your own so before your trip, consider checking in with us to ensure your treatment plan works.

During your exam, our team can review your medications, make medication schedule changes, or recommend travel tips. 

Visit us here in Trinity, Florida, and start your vacation in confidence. You can also click here to contact us online.