Worried about loo trips when out and about? Learn how to prepare for the journey, and travel in comfort with advice and tips from incontinence experts at TENA.
Tackle toilet trips on the go, confidently
Whether you’re nipping to the shops or jetting off somewhere sunny, travel can be stressful. For those living with disabilities, many unique challenges can make travel tougher, like needing the loo.
TENA understand managing bathroom breaks on the go can be tough. You might need to change a TENA pad or locate the nearest disabled loo in a new, unfamiliar place. But that shouldn’t mean you miss out. With the right planning and products, you can travel with confidence and comfort.
Here are some practical tips to help you travel smoothly and focus on enjoying the journey, wherever you’re heading, and whatever challenges you face.
- Planning, Booking and Seating
Proper planning makes all the difference when travelling. It can be the difference between endless delays or smooth, stress-free sailing. If you’re planning to take a longer trip or are travelling by plane or train, consider booking an aisle seat if there is one available, or a choose seats that have good access to the restroom. This will make it as easy as possible to get to the toilet if you need to. Another top tip is to check that the toilets aren’t out of order, so you aren’t caught out when nature decides to call! If you’re travelling by car, make a note of service stations or places you can make a pit stop to relieve yourself.
- Dress for success
Choosing appropriate travel attire is key to staying comfortable when travelling. It’s best to pick an outfit that is loose fitting, or that reduces pressure on your bladder while sitting for extended periods. Loose fitting clothing can also help you stay cool. Dressing in several easy to remove layers will make it easier to regulate your temperature whether it gets too hot or cold.
- Create a travel kit and include the right incontinence products for you
Packing a travel kit will help you stay organised and prepared when on the move with incontinence (or other loo-related concerns). Packing essential supplies will both ease anxiety and help you deal with any unexpected leaks. Be sure to include:
- Spare incontinence products to suit your needs, such as (TENA Discreet Ultra Pads or TENA Men Active Fit)
- Cleansing wipes
- Intimate moisturiser
- A small plastic bag for easy and discreet disposal
- Extra underwear
- Extra clothing
It’s a good idea to keep a travel kit like this together in one place so that you don’t forget any other essentials (i.e an extravagant assortment of bathing suits/sundresses/sandals if you are going abroad!) while packing.
When you are in the process of travelling, make sure to keep these essentials close at hand. This will give you peace of mind and help you manage your personal hygiene with discretion wherever you are.
- Pay attention to fluid intake
Staying hydrated is important, and drinking smaller amounts regularly can help you control incontinence by reducing feelings of urgency. Drinking large amounts all at once isn’t recommended as this can increase the urge to use the bathroom.
Its also important to be mindful of what you’re drinking, as certain beverages can irritate the bladder or make you need to use the toilet. Avoid highly caffeinated beverages unless you have easy access to bathroom facilities, as the diuretics in these drinks can increase feelings of urgency and increase the risk of incontinence.
- Consult your Doctor
If you’re worried about travelling with incontinence, make sure to speak to your healthcare provider. They may be able to offer personalised advice, medication or even just reassurance to help you travel worry free.
It’s natural to feel some anxiety about travelling with incontinence, but being prepared will ease your concerns and ensure you don’t miss out. Empower yourself with the right products and strategies, so you can live life to the fullest.
Safe travels!
For more information, visit TENA’s website here.
