Embarking on a journey is an exciting adventure, and for those managing incontinence, it can present unique challenges. But fear not! With a bit of careful planning and a positive outlook, you can make the most of your travels without letting continence care become a roadblock. In this blog post, let’s dive into some practical tips and strategies for navigating these challenges while on the road. 

Plan Ahead: 

Before setting off on your adventure, take some time for thorough planning. Look into restroom locations, their accessibility, and availability at your destination. Consider accommodations with private bathrooms and proximity to public facilities. Pack more supplies than you think you’ll need, including absorbent continence care products, to cover the entire length of your trip. It also would be a good idea to pack the more absorbent version of your chosen incontinence product. This thoughtful preparation ensures that you’re well-equipped to manage comfort and absorbency throughout the duration of the travel, contributing to a smoother and more relaxed travel experience. Check out our blog post on the “Understanding the different stages of incontinence and choosing the right products” for support on the different options available. 

‘Just Can’t Wait Card’  

The ‘Just Can’t Wait Card’ is a free and widely recognized tool supported by many businesses. It grants you access to restrooms not usually available to the public. It is a simple, discreet way to let others know that you may urgently need access to a restroom. By ordering this card at Just Can’t Wait Cards from Bladder & Bowel UK – Bladder & Bowel UK (bbuk.org.uk), you’re equipping yourself with a tool that can make a real difference in everyday situations.  

Choose the Right Transportation: 

Select modes of transportation that make restroom access convenient. Trains often have onboard facilities, while airlines can offer accessible restrooms. When flying, consider reserving an aisle seat and choosing a seat in the front or end of the plane for easier access to restrooms on the plane. If you’re driving, plan your route with regular rest stops in mind. 

Pack a Travel Kit: 

1. Spare Underwear: 

Pack enough pairs to cover the duration of your trip, plus a few extras.  

2. Wipes: 

Carry a travel-sized pack of gentle, fragrance-free wipes for a quick and refreshing clean. Look for wipes that are suitable for sensitive skin to prevent irritation. 

3. Disposable Bags: 

Include small, discreet disposable bags for the hygienic disposal of used incontinence products. This ensures a discreet and odour-free solution when proper disposal facilities are unavailable. 

4. Hand Sanitizer: 

Maintain hand hygiene with a travel-sized hand sanitizer. Choose one with a high alcohol content for effective germ elimination, especially when restroom facilities may not have soap and water. 

5. Moisturizer or Barrier Cream: 

Protect your skin by including a moisturizer or barrier cream. This helps prevent irritation and promotes skin health, especially during extended travel periods. 

6. Laundry Facilities Nearby:  

Before your journey, take a moment to identify nearby laundromats or laundry facilities along your route. Knowing their locations can be especially handy for longer trips, ensuring you have access to laundry services if needed. For longer journeys, also pack a small amount of travel-sized laundry detergent. This allows you to wash and refresh your underwear as needed, ensuring a constant supply of clean options. 

Stay Hydrated, but avoid Triggers: 

Staying hydrated is essential, particularly while traveling. However, it’s important to be mindful of triggers that may affect your incontinence. To minimize the frequency of bathroom visits, consider moderating your intake of caffeine and alcohol. Instead, choose water-rich foods to support hydration, and keep a reusable water bottle on hand. This way, you can stay properly hydrated without overindulging in beverages that might exacerbate incontinence. Read more about the vital link between proper hydration and urologic health, understanding its significance and benefits – Why is good hydration important for urologic health? (id-direct.com) 

Utilize Technology: 

Make technology work for you. Smartphone apps and websites can assist in finding nearby restrooms, planning routes with accessible facilities, and even offering real-time information on restroom availability. This tech-savvy approach is especially useful in unfamiliar areas. For example, “Restroom Finder” is a user-friendly app designed to assist you in finding clean and accessible restrooms. With this app, you can easily locate facilities based on user reviews and ratings, ensuring a more informed and comfortable restroom experience while on the go. 

Stay positive and enjoy your trip! Traveling with incontinence demands thoughtful preparation, but it certainly shouldn’t hold you back from exploring the world. By planning ahead, staying organized, and maintaining a positive attitude, you can navigate incontinence challenges and relish the enjoyment of travel without compromise. Remember, with the right mindset and strategies, the world is still yours to explore. Safe travels!