General Tips for Vacationing with IBS

Vacationing can be quite stressful if you have IBS. There are a lot of things we have to think about and consider. I think the biggest points of our anxiety lie with bathroom access and what foods will be available.

I know for some, when you are in a bad flare, vacationing is an impossibility. I was once in a flare during a time where vacation was scheduled. Just to save face, I pushed through and forced myself to attend. Big mistake. I was absolutely miserable and didn’t enjoy even a second of the vacation.

So one of my big tips is, if symptoms are bad and creeping into severe, cancel. Just cancel. You don’t always have to be a hero and it’s better to get over the flare at home relaxed than try to survive during a vacation in an unfamiliar place.

As I write this, I am actually getting ready to pack for vacation. I leave tomorrow and have a large list of to-dos but I thought I would share some tips that I stick to whenever I leave on a get-away:

Make restaurant reservations

This is huge! Anyone who has IBS knows what they can or definitely cannot eat. It is a source of major anxiety when traveling somewhere new. So my big tip is to research restaurants in the area, look at menus and make reservations. Making a reservation is key! This takes away major anxiety, as you know where you will be eating will accommodate your food intolerances and it’s great knowing you will for sure be seated.

For this upcoming trip, I did my research made multiple reservations and now can enjoy the sense of ease that brings. The best part also, is you aren’t tied down. If things change and perhaps you decide to stay in for a meal, you can always cancel.

Bring safe foods

I always pack safe foods with me when I leave out of town. Easy snacks that I know sit well with my digestion so that if I am ever a bit hungry I have something to munch on. Don’t forget zip-lock bags so you can put some goodies in your purse.

Always pack extra underwear and bottoms

So I know the goal with packing is to not over-pack but when you have IBS this is a big mistake. I ALWAYS have more underwear than I need, along with a good amount of bottoms for options. You never know if things get testy and an accident occurs so always, always be prepared in that aspect.

Pill case

If you take medication for IBS, and/or other supplements, organize them in a pill case. It makes taking your meds seamless and it’s easy to keep track of what you have taken for the day.

Emergency/flare kit

In the event that you experience a flare at your destination, it is always a good idea to have the essentials to get you through. For me, I always pack Peppermint essential oil. This helps me with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and cramping. I also pack Copaiba essential oil, as it helps calm down pain and cramping as well.

Basically, bring your go-to tools for getting through a flare, because there is nothing worse than being out of town and not having anything to turn to when you aren’t feeling well.

How about you? What tips do you have for those traveling with IBS?  Share below!