As someone who has lived with ulcerative colitis for over 30 years, I know firsthand the unique challenges this chronic condition presents when traveling. However, I’ve learned that with the right preparation and mindset, your inflammatory bowel disease doesn’t have to stop you from seeing the world. I refuse to let ulcerative colitis dictate where I can and can’t explore, and neither should you! Here are my top 10 tips for traveling with ulcerative colitis:
Before You Go
- Consult your gastroenterologist about your travel plans, medication schedule, and any concerns well in advance. Get a letter from your doctor explaining your condition and the medications that you take, which can help with security checks and emergencies. Ask your doctor questions like:
- Should I get any vaccines before I go and should I avoid live vaccines with ulcerative colitis? If your doctor is unsure you can do some research or go to the American Gastroenterological Association and you’ll see recommendations.
- How should I adjust my medication routine for time changes?
- What should I do if I experience a flare-up while traveling?
- Insurance Coverage
Check with your medical insurance provider about coverage for out-of-state or international travel. Ask questions like:- Will my policy cover medical expenses if I have a flare-up while traveling?
- Do I need to purchase any additional medical insurance and who do you recommend?
- Are there any exclusions or limitations for pre-existing conditions like ulcerative colitis while I travel and have a medical emergency?
- If I incur any medical expenses while traveling can I submit a claim and what form should I use?
- Travel Insurance
- It’s really important to buy travel insurance that covers pre-existing conditions like ulcerative colitis and it’s one of the first things to ask along with what is and what isn’t covered.
- Two reputable options are Seven Corners and SafetyWing, which offer travel insurance plans for long-term travelers and digital nomads
- Air Travel Strategies
- If traveling abroad, get any required vaccinations and medications well in advance.
- Request aisle seats near bathrooms.
- Consider getting a World Entry Pass to breeze through airport security lines.
- Look into lounge passes like Priority Pass for domestic travel and Dragon Pass for international trips, which can provide lounge access while waiting for your flight
- Check in advance if your airports have day-use hotels or day-use rooms with beds and shower in case you need to change and lie down.
- Traveling can be stressful, so take advantage of airports that have meditation rooms or quiet areas when available.
- Bathroom Scouting
One of the biggest concerns for travelers with ulcerative colitis is finding a clean, accessible bathroom in a pinch. Thankfully, there are apps like Flush, Sit or Squat, Toilet Finder and Where is Public Toilet that can help you locate the nearest bathroom wherever you are. Make sure to do a Google search for apps that work in the country where you are traveling. - Medication Management
Contact the airline and hotel beforehand to inquire about accommodating refrigerated medication. When you travel you need to have enough medication on hand.- Keep the contact information of your pharmacy handy in case your meds get lost or stolen, so you can have them FedExed right away.
- If you’re on liquid medication or pre-filled syringes that need refrigeration, ask your doctor well in advance if there are other options for travel. If refrigeration is required, get an appropriate travel case with ice packs. (Ie if you take Humira they send you a travel case free of charge)
- Always carry a letter from your doctor explaining your condition and medication needs, which can help with security checks.
- Keep powdered electrolytes, Imodium, or other anti-diarrheal medication in your hand luggage.
- Travel Accommodations
When it comes to where to stay, consider your needs. Western-style hotels may offer more familiar amenities, but local accommodations can provide a more authentic experience. If you’re not staying in a hotel and are doing a hostel make sure to request a room with a private bathroom, not just one close by. If you’re visiting remote areas, consider shorter day trips rather than extended stays, and pack toilet paper, wipes, and immodium just in case. - Pack Smart
When packing, bring extra medication, your doctor’s travel letter, and any required medical supplies. Assemble a travel pharmacy kit with anti-diarrheal like Imodium, electrolyte powders, heating pads, wipes, and anything else to help manage symptoms. Download entertainment like movies on your devices in case you need to stay in bed for a few days while you deal with Bali belly, Montezuma’s revenge, or Rangoon runs. - Food
Contact the airline before your trip to ask about food accommodations and pre-order special meals, whatever works for your body and your colitis (vegan, vegetarian, diabetic, Jain, Muslim, Hindu, etc.). If you’re unsure about safe foods, refer to resources like the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation website.
When traveling internationally, only consume bottled or boiled water to avoid contamination, which can trigger symptoms. Also, avoid ice unless you’re staying at a hotel with a filtration system – contact them in advance to be prepared. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids like water or electrolyte drinks while traveling. Avoid caffeine and carbonated beverages which can worsen UC symptoms.
To be safe, avoid drinks with sugar, caffeine, or alcohol so you won’t be dehydrated. Just in case the airline messes up your food order, or you have a middle-of-the-night layover and no restaurants are open pack safe, portable snacks like:- Crackers, rice cakes, or pita chips
- Bananas
- Single-serve applesauce
- Single-serve peanut butter
- Single-serve oatmeal
- Single-serve hummus
- Single-serve seasoned tofu
- single-serve avocado
*TIP: your single serve hummus, tofu, and avocado can be frozen and will last an extended flight up to 24 hours.
- Local Medical Resources
Research medical facilities and pharmacies at your destination in case you need care while traveling. Keep a list of local doctors who treat IBD, as well as the address of the nearest ER. Program emergency numbers into your phone. Also, look into apps like Rescu which can connect you with mobile doctors for non-emergency situations, and mPassport which connects you to medical care around the world.
The World is Waiting
Ulcerative colitis may add some extra logistics to travel but so does traveling with a baby or children or planning for a cruise. Having ulcerative colitis doesn’t mean you can’t travel and have the best adventure in your life. With some proactive planning and the right tools in your pocket, you can manage flare-ups and enjoy incredible adventures anywhere your spirit calls you. So study up on these tips, get packing, and start traveling – the memories will be worth it.
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