Tips for Flying With IBS

Traveling with irritable bowel syndrome can be incredibly stressful. Adhering to a restrictive diet in a foreign country is difficult but doable, but when you’re on an airplane it’s almost impossible. Eating airline food isn’t an option, so here are some tips to help you fly without inflaming your IBS.

Eat Light

When you have a long flight ahead of you the last thing you should do is eat a large meal beforehand. Try to restrict your diet more than usual to prevent a flare up of your IBS. Stick to safe foods you know won’t cause inflammation and eat light!

Pack Snacks

Flyers with IBS should avoid airplane food at all costs. When the attendant comes by with her cart just wave her past. Instead, pack your own safe foods you know don’t fuel your IBS.

Aisle Seat

When booking your flight, aim for an aisle seat. Even with our best attempts to keep IBS in check, flare-ups happen. The closer you are to the aisle the better, so you won’t be struggling to reach the toilet.

Locate the Restroom

Speaking of which, you should know exactly where the bathroom is at all times. Keep an eye on the line and if you feel a movement coming on, go quickly. Some people with IBS simply cannot wait, so secure yourself a seat close to the toilet and head there at the first sign of discomfort.

Don’t Be Embarrassed

If you blow up the bathroom on your flight, don’t sweat it. These days, people are used to horrible smells on a plane, whether they like it or not.