Flying with a Stoma: Tips and Concerns

Hi, I flew to Spain recently from the UK. There were no issues with ballooning. I found loose clothing helped. I ate normally on the plane.

You can ask your consultant to send you a hidden disability lanyard that will help fast-track queues.

However, I did get stopped by security as my stoma bag showed red on the body scanner. I discreetly whispered to the guard that I have a stoma. I was then privately searched in a separate room. They did ask to see the stoma through the peep window of the bag, which I thought was a little unnecessary. They also asked me to flatten the bag by running my hand over it, which was not a problem as it was empty, but if it had outputted, I wouldn't have been pleased with this request.

Overall, flying was a positive experience. Hope you have a great time 👍

Spain was the first destination I flew to since my operation. It was only 3 hours and was a good test before I plan a long-haul flight.

Thanks, Queenie. I thought it would also be a safe bet rather than chance a 12-hour flight.

I have traveled all over the world with my ileostomy. Sometimes my bag would slightly balloon on takeoff. Nothing that would create an emergency. I was always able to wait until the seatbelt light went off to head to the restroom! Make sure to carry your supplies with you on board. Luggage can and does get lost. Have a great trip.

Had my ileostomy for 62 years (since 2 days old) and have flown multiple times - Australia, Canada, Bali, Iceland, Arctic Norway, Malta, Greece, Croatia, North Macedonia, and never once had an in-flight issue with my stoma or dressing. You'll be fine.

My Ostomy Journey: Bruce | Hollister

Hi Marco,

No hyperinflation in my experience. I have flown both to Europe and beyond and have never had any problems. This may be indelicate, but I have always thought that if this did happen, I could find the loo and "burp" the bag. Yuck, I know, but...

Enjoy your trip...

Has anyone here known adhesions and a history of SBO and flown with no problems?

I became an ostomate in 2015, and since then, I have traveled to Europe, Mexico City, and the East Coast (I live in the San Francisco Bay Area). I spent the 10th anniversary of my surgery walking the Camino in Spain. In all honesty, I have never had an issue with my ostomy while in flight. As an insurance policy, I do make it a point to visit the restroom a couple of times while in flight and refrain from fizzy drinks. Remember, the cabins are pressurized!

I will be seventy-one for a few months more and am a two-time blood cancer survivor with ulcerative colitis complications caused probably by chemo or colon involvement.

Safe travels!!!!

I took my first cross-country flight this summer to Norway for my stepson's wedding and had no issues! No ballooning or TSA issues.

I do empty my bag before going through TSA. I don't have anything carbonated or chew gum. I brought all my supplies as carry-on, including an empty plastic squeeze bottle that I could fill in the bathroom sink to help flush everything down.

I did wear a sunflower lanyard that I had ordered so people knew I might need extra help, and I took advantage of early boarding with it.

Have a great time on your travels!