This topic is about a challenging travel experience shared by someone who attended a Red Hat convention in Montana with a travel companion who was not very understanding or supportive. Here are some insights and advice based on the experience:

1. The travel companion caused embarrassment by arguing with a waitress over a deal and making inappropriate comments in public.

2. The ostomate faced issues with their pouch filling with gas and odor. Despite changing the filter and pouch and using air freshener, some smell lingered. The companion was unsympathetic, spraying freshener toward them while reading.

3. At the U.S./Canada border, the companion drove the new car and lied to customs about purchases.

4. The companion ridiculed the use of a GPS, struggled with navigation, and questioned the pouch issues, complaining about not being informed earlier.

5. The originator decided not to travel with this person again, noting that even her family avoids her. They regretted not booking separate accommodations and meals.

Additional insights and advice from others include:

- Consider ending the relationship with the travel companion. Many suggest refusing future trips and cutting contact with disrespectful people.

- Some recommend confronting or documenting rude behavior, possibly recording comments to address them later.

- For managing odor and leaks while traveling, use deodorizing drops like Ostomist Mint, and consider room sprays such as Limone spray or Dansac Nodor S. Carry diaper bags for disposal and sleep on a large bath sheet with layered clothing to manage leaks.

- Regularly check and empty the pouch, and keep extra supplies handy. Using a GPS can help reduce navigation stress.

- Some have shared their experiences with products like Hollister two-piece systems and Dansac odor products, noting varying effectiveness.

- Emotional support is important, as non-ostomates may not understand pouch odor issues. This experience can reveal who your true friends are.

- Don't let one bad trip deter future travel. Proper preparation and choosing considerate companions are essential for a better experience.