Travelling with IBD

Keep your IBD specialist or health care providers phone number and your insurance card in your wallet at all times.

In case of an emergency or questions from customs officers, request a signed document from your doctor that outlines your medical condition, any allergies, and a list of your prescriptions and medical equipment.

Ask your health care provider or IBD specialist to write an “action plan” plan for you so that you are aware of the necessary steps to take if your symptoms worsen. Some offices may charge a fee for its creation. You may also want translate the document into the language of the country that you are visiting.

Put your mind at ease by building a list of local doctors and health centres. You could ask your doctor for recommendations, visit the consulate website of the country you are visiting, or do some searching online. Your hotel concierge may also be able to provide helpful information. 

Remember to plan and make arrangements if you require a biologic or biosimilar medication infusion while travelling. Contact your IBD specialist and patients support program for more information. 

Always travel with more medication than you think you will need for the duration of your trip. You never know if you will misplace a pill or encounter flight delays and need an extra day’s worth.

Prescription medications should always be with you in your carry-on bag in case your luggage gets lost or delayed and since temperatures can get freezing cold in the baggage storage area. Ask your doctor about any temperature requirements for storing your medication.

Ensure prescriptions are in their original packaging for security purposes, and bring smaller containers to store pills in throughout the day during your travels.

It is a good idea to keep the original patient information leaflet and a copy of your prescription on hand even though you do not need to present these documents to security.

If time of day is critical when taking your medication, consult your doctor on how best to adjust to the time change. If you are travelling to a different time zone, setting an alarm can remind you to take your medication on time.

Remember to plan and make arrangements if you require a biologic or biosimilar medication infusion while travelling. Contact your IBD specialist and patients support program for more information. 

Pack an “emergency travel kit” with your own supply of toilet paper, tissues, wipes, ointments, a change of underwear and clothes, plastic bags for disposal, odour spray, and hand sanitizer (small enough to carry on the plane) to keep with you.

You should also pack sunscreen and insect repellant.

If your medication requires refrigeration, bring a small cooler, ice packs, and ziplock bags to last throughout your travels.