This topic is all about getting back to enjoying wilderness camping and kayaking after having an ileostomy. The person who started the discussion had their ileostomy surgery six months ago and is eager to return to multi-day camping and kayaking trips, even in areas without bathrooms or electricity. They are looking for advice from others who have experience with similar outdoor activities to ensure they are well-prepared and can continue enjoying their adventures without letting their stoma hold them back.

Here are some practical tips and insights shared by others:

1. Belt and Support Garments
- Consider wearing an ostomy waistband or a kidney belt to keep your pouch secure during activities like kayaking or climbing.
- Some options include Comfizz support garments, Stealth Belt, Ostomy Solutions belt, Hollister soft belts, and Nu Hope hernia support belts.
- You can also create a DIY solution with a Spandex girdle and a sewn-in pouch pocket.

2. Hard and Soft Protectors
- The Ostoshield stoma protector is a handy option that clips to a belt and provides protection.

3. Supply Management
- Pack a full wafer/bag set for every two days, plus at least one extra, as sweating and water can loosen adhesives.
- Keep supplies in a waterproof Pelican Box inside a dry bag for river trips.
- Minimize bulk by carrying only essential items like a flange, bags, wipes, and a small strip of toilet paper.

4. Emptying and Disposal in the Wild
- Emptying your pouch is often easier than pre-surgery bowel breaks.
- Use a wide-mouth plastic jar for clean, pack-out emptying, or consider commercial "potty-in-a-bag" products.
- If emptying directly on soil, stay away from water sources and cover with leaves or soil.
- Pack out used appliances in small trash bags and avoid throwing them into campground toilets.

5. Changing Appliances on Trail
- Pre-assemble a new pouch with a ring or gasket for quick changes.
- Use fast-dry skin wipes for cleaning and quicker adhesion.
- Extra water bottles can be used for hand-washing or stoma cleaning.

6. Activity-Specific Tips
- Regulate meal timing to predict output during paddling sessions.
- A belt is often essential for kayakers due to the twisting motion.
- No specific limitations are reported for winter sports like skiing or snowshoeing.
- Swimming is manageable with belts that keep the pouch flat.

7. Mindset and Experience
- Many long-time ostomates report no barriers to activities like camping, rock climbing, and skiing.
- Some find camping easier post-ostomy than with active IBD.
- Preparation and supportive companions are key, and confidence grows quickly after a successful trip.

8. Additional Resources and Inspiration
- Check out trip reports and community recommendations for camping sites.
- If insurance denies coverage for support garments, consider having your GI write a "medical necessity" letter.

These tips and insights aim to help you feel more confident and prepared for your outdoor adventures with an ileostomy.