Backpacking with an Ostomy: Tips for Using a Waist Belt

Replies
5
Views
1789
Bex3000
Mar 25, 2022 1:17 am

I have an ileostomy and I hike with a small pack, but I'd like to graduate to a big pack with a waist belt so I can hike and pioneer camp. The only thing is, I'm worried the waist belt will be on my ostomy. Does anyone backpack and can share their experience?

AlexT
Mar 25, 2022 4:05 am

Backpack? No, but I do carry duck decoys that have a waist belt on the bag. No real issues, but I'm usually wearing multiple layers and chest waders. I do have a StomGuard belt, and it protects your whole stoma area quite well. You could easily cinch the waist strap from a backpack over it, and you'd probably never feel it. It's very comfortable to wear.

Gray Logo for MeetAnOstoMate

Why Join MeetAnOstoMate?

First off, this is a pretty cool site with 37,504 members who truly understand you.

It's not all about ostomy. We talk about everything.

Many come here for advice or to give advice, others have found good friends, and some have even found love. Most importantly, people here are honest and genuinely care.

🛑 Privacy is very important - we have many features that are only visible to members.

Create an account and you will be amazed by the warmth of this community.

  37,504 members
Bex3000
Mar 26, 2022 10:41 am

Thank you!

BackToCa
Mar 28, 2022 11:34 pm

I have done quite a few multi-day backpacking trips. Most recently, three days in Bryce and three days in Zion. I did not have any issues with my pack. I have had my ileostomy for a long time. I adjust my shoulder straps so the belt is comfortable, and it is fine. Have fun out there!

bryancohnracing
Mar 29, 2022 3:28 pm

I hike some and travel by air a bit, always using a backpack as my carry-on. I've found over time that I have to wear a hernia support belt (Nu Hope) and a bag support wrap (Ostomy Secrets) and have had no problems. To be fair, I am not carrying 60-pound packs on three-day hikes, so my experience and free advice are worth what you paid for it! :)

 

Stories of Living Life to the Fullest from Ostomy Advocates I Hollister

Play
StPetie
Mar 30, 2022 1:14 am
Reply to BackToCa

I'm not much of a hiker but I did do the Subway in Zion about 20 years ago. Hadn't really thought about it for a long while until your post here. Beautiful place. Thanks for the reminder.