I've learned my packing strategy the hard way. After a concert weekend where I forgot my entire supply bag and had to plug a leak with toilet paper while my partner drove around looking for emergency supplies at hospitals, I don't mess around with packing anymore.
Here's what works for me when I'm heading out for a weekend trip.
The Double-Bag Rule
I pack double what I think I'll need. Three day trip means six bags. It sounds like overkill, but it helps me feel prepared for different situations.
For example, if I go in a pool or hot tub, I always change my bag afterward even if I dried everything properly. Sometimes there's still moisture on my skin that can cause a reaction or weaken the adhesive. Having extra bags means I can swap it out without worrying about running short.
Hot weather is another reason I pack extras. I sweat a lot, and my adhesive can start to fall off when it gets too hot. Beach weekends especially mean I'm going through more bags than usual.
My Essential Travel Kit
These are the things I never leave home without:
- Skin liquid corticosteroid: I try to use it sparingly, but when my skin gets irritated and itchy, this is a lifesaver. Skin reactions can get painful and annoying fast.
- Extra napkins: For cleanup. Always.
- Adhesive wipes: To make sure everything sticks properly when I'm changing my bag.
- Small garbage bags: I've left home without these before and it was not ideal. You need them for disposing of used bags, especially if you have a leak or you're changing in someone else's bathroom.
Keep at least one complete bag change worth of supplies in your carry-on, even if you're driving. You never know when you might need it.
Carry-On vs Checked Luggage
I always keep at least one full bag change in my carry-on, just in case they lose my checked luggage at the airport. I want to make sure I'm always organized and have something ready to go.
It's also helpful to pack a change of clothes and underwear in your carry-on. On airplanes, the cabin pressure can make your bag balloon, and if you don't empty it in time, you can potentially have a leak. Being prepared means I can handle it without panicking.
Different Types of Trips
Beach vacations mean I pack even more extras because of the heat and sweating. My adhesive tends to give out faster in hot, humid weather, so I make sure I have enough bags to change if needed.
City trips are less concerning, but I still follow the double-bag rule. You just never know what situations you'll run into.
Staying with friends or family adds another layer. I've had a few times where I've had a leak at a friend's house that got on their sheets. Having to shower and change everything in the middle of the night is not fun. Now I'm extra careful to pack more than enough supplies and always have my cleanup kit accessible.
Lessons Learned
That concert weekend taught me to never assume I'll be fine with minimal supplies. Having extras doesn't just mean more bags. It means having the cleanup supplies, the skin care products, the garbage bags, and a backup plan.
Packing might feel excessive at first, but feeling prepared is worth it. I'd rather bring home unused supplies than scramble to find a hospital pharmacy at midnight on a holiday weekend.
Travel should be about enjoying yourself, not stressing about ostomy supplies. A little extra planning makes all the difference.