Traveling with Ulcerative Colitis
Traveling with ulcerative colitis or attending public events can be stressful, but with a few precautions, you can relax and enjoy your trip.
Before You Go
Plan ahead so you can focus on the fun part, your trip.
Check in with your team
Before traveling, check with your medical team about other medication you may need in case of a flare-up, a stomach bug, or other health issues.
Also ask about sun protection: some UC medications make your skin burn more easily.
Travel vaccinations
For some countries it is advisable to consider specific vaccinations. Discuss with your medical team which ones are right for you, as live vaccines are not recommended for people whose immune system is suppressed.
Doctor’s letter
Carry a letter from your physician stating that you need the medication. This can help avoid issues if someone checks your luggage, especially when traveling with injection medication.
Carry prescriptions
Bring prescriptions for all your UC medications, including any injection or backup meds.
Time zones
Plan ahead for managing your medication schedule across time zones so you stay on track.
Medical contacts
Keep your doctor’s and medical team’s contact details with you, saved on your phone and on paper in case your battery dies.
Insurance check
Check if your health insurance covers trips, or arrange extra travel insurance before you go.
Your UC Travel Kit
Bring more supplies than you think you’ll need, and always keep important items in your carry-on.
🎒 Pack these essentials
- All your regular UC medications
- Extra medication in case your return is delayed, about 1 week’s worth of additional medication
- Prescriptions and your doctor’s letter
- If you take injection medication: a chargeable cooler, power bank, and charging cables
- Wipes and tissues in your hand luggage
- An extra set of underwear
- Medical team contacts and your health insurance card
While Traveling
A few smart habits on the go keep things smooth.
Meds in carry-on
Keep your medication close in your purse or hand luggage, and avoid checking it in.
Scout the bathrooms
Know where the bathrooms are and how to get to them most easily.
Pick an aisle seat
Choose an aisle seat when flying, on a bus, at a show, or at the movies, it makes bathroom trips much easier.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water, especially on long trips or in hot climates.
Food and water hygiene
When your immune system is suppressed you catch stomach bugs more easily, so be mindful of hygiene with food and drinking water.
Flare or stomach bug?
Diarrhea or vomiting is not always a flare-up, it can also be an ordinary stomach bug. Have it checked if you develop symptoms while away.