Traveling to Iceland with an ileostomy can be a smooth and enjoyable experience, as shared by someone who recently made the trip. They managed to use just one ostomy pouch for the entire 3½-day journey from New York to Reykjavík. Here are some helpful tips and insights from their adventure:

- Pack wisely: Keep at least one complete pouching-system change in your carry-on bag, and pack additional changes in your checked luggage for each day of your trip.

- Use supportive gear: A Stealth Belt can help keep your pouch flat and discreet. Adding barrier extenders along the belt line, plus an extra crescent-shaped extender at the top, can provide extra security.

- Air travel tips: The flights were smooth with no ballooning issues, and airport security was hassle-free, with no pat-downs or questions. The only challenge was emptying the pouch in the cramped airplane lavatory.

- Enjoy activities: The traveler enjoyed a full day of city walking, a "Golden Loop" bus and hiking tour, over two hours in the Blue Lagoon's geothermal waters, and a two-hour horseback ride, all without any issues.

- Post-trip experience: They wore the appliance for an additional day after returning home, and upon changing it, found a clean seal with no seepage.

- Trip highlights included strolling through Reykjavík, visiting the Icelandic Phallological Museum, exploring the Golden Loop with its volcanic crater, geysers, waterfalls, and tectonic plate divide, relaxing in the Blue Lagoon, dining at KOL Restaurant, and going on a horseback tour near the city.

Additional insights:

- The traveler has an ileostomy due to Crohn’s disease and colon cancer, following a colon resection and chemotherapy. They report a much-improved quality of life and do not plan to reverse the ileostomy.

- When visiting the Blue Lagoon, take advantage of the lockers, which offer both private and communal changing options. Barrier extenders and a supportive belt can help maintain the seal during extended water exposure.

- Tours around Reykjavík, like the Golden Loop and horseback riding, are manageable with an ileostomy. Plan for restroom breaks, but rest assured that facilities are available at major attractions.

- For those looking to explore more of Iceland, consider visiting Akureyri, known for its milder climate and stunning waterfalls.