If you're about to take your first flight with an ostomy, it's natural to have questions about how to prepare and what to expect. Here are some friendly tips to help make your journey smoother:

1. Carry-on strategy:
- Keep all your ostomy supplies, like pouches, wafers, seals or rings, tape, medications, and a change of clothes, in your carry-on bag. This way, if your checked luggage goes missing, you'll still have everything you need.
- Use large ziplock bags to organize your supplies, label them as "Ostomy Supplies," and keep them together for easy inspection.
- Airlines are required to allow an extra carry-on specifically for medical equipment. Let the desk know it’s for "medical/cabin" use so it won’t be counted or charged.

2. Wafer & pouch preparation:
- Pre-cut several wafers before your trip. This will make changes quicker and means you can avoid carrying scissors if you prefer not to.

3. Scissors & TSA rules:
- In the U.S., scissors with blades under 4 inches are allowed in carry-ons. However, international security might have stricter rules, so it's good to check local regulations.

4. Security screening tips:
- Print and carry an ostomy information card from the American Ostomy Association, which is ADA compliant.
- Even with the card, you might face extra pat-downs or bag checks. It helps to politely inform security agents about your ostomy in advance.

5. In-flight comfort:
- If the seat belt crosses your stoma, you can ask the flight crew for a belt extender.
- Try to empty your pouch before boarding, as airplane lavatories are small and can be tricky to use during the flight.
- Pack at least three times more supplies than you think you'll need, just in case of unexpected delays.

6. Recommended resource:
- Consider reading "Yes We Can! – Traveling With an Ostomy" by Barbara Kupfer and others. Many have found it helpful for international travel.