Travel Tips for Self-Catheterisation

Travel Tips for Self-Catheterisation

Travelling can be both exciting and unnerving, especially if you catheterise! Reduce the stress of bladder management by being well-prepared. The following are some helpful tips to help ensure you feel confident and prepared for your adventures: 

Pack smart

Ensure you have extra catheters in your hand luggage in case of delayed departures or misplaced luggage. If you are away for an extended period, you may even be able to get products shipped to your destination. 

Think about access

Book an aisle seat close to the bathroom. If in a wheelchair, ask about toilet accessibility when you book your trip. If the trip is long haul, it might even be worth considering an indwelling catheter and bag solution. 

Plan ahead

You should try and stick to your catheterisation schedule as much as possible. Consider travel times and transfer details and when and where you will be catheterising. For example, if traveling by air, you may prefer to catheterise just before boarding rather than on the plane. If traveling by car or bus, it is a good idea to let the driver know you need scheduled toilet stops. You could look these up in advance or ask about scheduled stops if going by bus.

Security 

Given the rules around liquids on flights, if you do need to carry things, like antibacterial hand gels, it is worth asking your doctor to write you a letter confirming your medical need to carry certain liquids or medical devices. You might even be able to request a travel certificate from your product supplier. 

Hygiene 

Unfortunately public toilet environments can be less than ideal for catheterising. It is a good idea to be prepared with additional items to ensure you keep things as clean as possible. You should include extra catheters, gloves, antibacterial gel or handwash, tissues, wipes, plastic bags, a handheld mirror if needed, and disposable pads or spare underwear in case of accidents. Keep everything in the one grab bag for easy access to essentials when you’re on the go. 

We hope these tips help you feel confident and secure, ready for your adventures! If you do have any additional questions not covered in this fact sheet, please reach out to our Team.

Written by Jane Clarke, RN, BSc (Hons), MNurs – Spec, MBA Clinical Nurse Consultant.