This topic is all about managing a colostomy while traveling, especially for those who spend a lot of time on the road, like truckers and RV travelers. It offers practical tips for emptying and disposing of a colostomy pouch in a way that's clean and convenient.

Here’s a simple routine shared by a traveler:

- Supplies needed: regular-size Ziplock freezer bags and a box of baby wipes.
- Method:
1. Try to empty the pouch before it gets too full to prevent leaks.
2. Find a private spot, like the truck cab or motor-home bathroom, and open a Ziplock bag.
3. Release the pouch clip, squeeze the pouch outlet, and guide it into the Ziplock.
4. Use your other hand to squeeze the pouch from top to bottom, like a frosting bag, so everything goes into the Ziplock.
5. Place the filled Ziplock somewhere stable where it won’t tip over.
6. Use a baby wipe to clean the pouch tail.
7. Re-clip the pouch, clean your fingers and the clip with another wipe, put the used wipes in the Ziplock, seal it, and throw it away in any trash container.

Additional tips and insights:

- Keep your supplies, like Ziplock bags, wipes, and disposal bags, within easy reach. Try to empty the pouch when it’s no more than one-third full to avoid accidents.
- You can use a large disposable coffee cup with a lid as a temporary container for the pouch contents before disposing of it.
- Consider using Velcro-seal drainable pouches instead of old-style clips to avoid breakage and accidental drops. To keep Velcro clean, fold the pouch outlet edge back completely before emptying.
- If you have an ileostomy and deal with watery output, Eakin Cohesive® Stoma Powder/Granules can help firm it up, reducing splash and odor.
- Closed-end ostomy pouches with built-in filters are a disposable option that eliminates the need to empty; just seal the used pouch in a plastic bag and discard it. Scented “Diaper Disposal Bags” can help mask odors when disposing of used pouches.
- In the USA, Medicare typically covers up to two boxes (about 120) of disposable closed-end pouches per month, compared to one box of reusable drainable pouches. Check your Medicare or private plan to see what’s covered and choose the most economical option.
- Always remember to pull over and stop before attempting to empty or change a pouch. Never do this while driving.