Does your pre-vacation planning include googling how to ask where the restroom is in the language of the country you're traveling to? Do you always select the plane seat closest to the bathroom? Map out your road trip route using the Toilet Finder app?
Traveling with bladder issues can be stressful. No one wants the fear of bladder leaks, or feeling of constant urgency and incessant restroom searches to overshadow the joy of travel, or deter you from taking your dream trip! Fear not—with some careful planning and a few essential strategies, you can enjoy a worry-free vacation while managing frequent urination needs. Let’s explore how to make your next vacation a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Before embarking on your vacation, consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and treatment options. They can help you understand the cause of your weakened bladder or frequent urination and suggest effective strategies, medications, supplements or exercises to manage your condition. Your healthcare provider can also offer guidance on how to adjust your travel plans and medication schedules to ensure a smooth trip.
Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor
One practice you can work into your routine long before you board your plane to Bali, is pelvic floor exercises. If your leakage is due to a weak pelvic floor, doing kegels or using a pelvic floor training tool regularly can help you hit the beach or far off city streets with increased confidence and peace of mind. We love the musical “squeeze along” kegel videos from Know Your Floors on TikTok.
Choose Your Destination Wisely
Selecting a hospitable destination can significantly impact your travel experience. When dealing with a weak bladder, it's essential to consider factors such as the availability of public restrooms, accessibility of those restrooms and climate conditions. Opt for locales known for their public restroom facilities and make sure they are easily accessible during your travels.
Be Picky About Your Accommodations
Select accommodations that are well-equipped and understanding of your needs. Look for hotels or vacation rentals with en-suite bathrooms, grab bars, and easy accessibility.
Plan Your Itinerary Thoughtfully
Careful planning can significantly level up your vacation experience. Create an itinerary that allows for frequent restroom breaks and avoids long stretches of time without access to facilities. Consider visiting places with a well-maintained restroom infrastructure, like shopping malls, museums, or restaurants, where you can take regular breaks.
Pack Strategically
Wondering how to pack for travel with an overactive bladder? The right items can make your trip that much more comfortable. Here are some essential items to consider:
- Travel-size hygiene products: Carry travel-size hand sanitizers, wet wipes and disposable seat covers for added hygiene and peace of mind.
- Extra clothing: Pack spare underwear and clothing in case of accidents. Incontinence products like leak-proof underwear have come a long way in recent years—there are many stylish options available.
- Medications and supplements: Look for ingredients like Pumpkin Seed Extract & Saw Palmetto from your favorite supplement aisle. Alternatively, bring any prescribed bladder control medications or supplements recommended by your healthcare provider.
-
Travel-friendly portable urinals: Some travel-specific urination devices are discreet and easy to use, making it more convenient to relieve yourself when restrooms are scarce. These have also gotten an upgrade recently from brands like Boom Home Medical.
- Waterproof bags: Use waterproof bags to store your essential items, such as medication and spare clothing, in case of any leaks or accidents.
Stay Hydrated…Mindfully
Hydration is crucial, especially during travel, but be mindful of how and when you hydrate. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, as these diuretics can increase the need to urinate. Instead, opt for water and stay hydrated throughout the day, but consider reducing your intake in the hours leading up to bedtime to minimize nighttime trips to the restroom.
Use Tech to Your Advantage
In this digital age, technology can be a valuable tool for travelers with weak bladders or frequent urination issues. Several smartphone apps are available that can help you locate nearby restrooms, including their accessibility features and cleanliness ratings. These apps can be a lifesaver when you're in an unfamiliar foreign city.
Inform Your Travel Companions
If you're traveling with friends or family, don't hesitate to give them a head’s up on your condition and specific needs. They can offer support and understanding, making your vacation more enjoyable, and can keep an eye out for facilities if you find yourself needing to go. Additionally, having someone aware of your situation can be especially helpful in case of emergencies.
Take Breaks and Practice Relaxation Techniques
While traveling, it's essential to take regular breaks to relieve pressure on your bladder. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or meditation to manage anxiety or urgency when searching for restrooms. These practices can help you stay calm and enjoy your trip without constant worry.
Exploring the world with an overactive or weak bladder may feel like a daunting task, but don’t let it deter you from crossing those top destinations off your travel bucket list. WIth careful planning and a can-do attitude, you can enjoy a worry-free vacation that’s not dictated by an unpredictable bladder. Bon voyage!
