Holiday abroad

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My husband is doing great after having a radical cystectomy and would like to holiday abroad. Do we have to take anything with us to show he has a urostomy bag? He is worried about being stopped at security and searched.

  • Hi Tinker

    I go abroad regularly now with a urostomy and colostomy and have always been treated kindly at airport security. The bags show up going through the scanner, so when I get taken to the side I explain I have two stomas. Then I am taken to a private room, in my case to be checked by a lady. Your husband should be checked by a man. Last time I just needed to lift my top slightly to show where my bags are. On other occasions I have had a quick “pat down” again in a private room. I’ve always had staff being discreet and understanding-they see this all the time. 

    I don’t carry anything with me specifically to show I have my bags although the first time I flew I did take a letter from my nurse to explain my need for the extra medical allowance for hand luggage (all my supplies!). I never needed to show it and don’t bother now.

    Go for the holiday and enjoy!

    Sarah xx


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    1. Thank you Sarah  for that reassuring info. Take care x
  • I have neo & need to take urinary catheters with me. My Specialist nurse (or it might have been GP) provided a card which says I need to carry medical supplies, but I've never needed to show it. I was also advised to take my most recent clinic report letter (partly in case of any issues arising needing medical care). Again, I've never needed it, but it is reassuring to have. 

    Enjoy the holiday!