Traveling with Catheters

Intermittent catheterization makes it easier to manage your bladder when traveling.

Travel Tips When Using Catheters

You can safely manage your bladder with IC at home and on your travels. Here we have gathered some advice so you can be prepared, and can avoid the need for troubleshooting on your journey.

Tip 1: Bring Extra Catheters

Always pack extra catheters. Your journey home could be delayed or other contingencies could occur that may cause you to need more catheters.

Tip! Bring extra hand sanitizer. Wet wipes are also good to have.

Tip 2: Catheters in Your Carry-on Bag

Ensure that you pack extra catheters in your carry-on bag in case you lose the rest of your luggage. It's a good idea to see if your travel companion can bring catheters on your behalf in their luggage.

Tip 3: If You Run Out of Catheters While Abroad

If you realize that you do not have enough catheters during your trip, please contact your local Wellspect office or our headquarters. We will gladly help you out!

Tip 4: Clean water

If you travel to countries with poor water quality, you can bring catheters with integrated sterile water. Do not forget to wash your hands before IC - and after!

The following LoFric catheters are available with integrated sterile water

• LoFric Elle® is a pre-wet catheter with an angulated handle.
• LoFric® Sense™, LoFric® Origo™, LoFric® Primo™, LoFric® Hydro-Kit™ have enclosed sterile water

Tip: If the water quality at your destination is good enough to drink, always use cold water, with a lower risk for bacteria.

Tip: If the tap water is not good, you can use bottled water. In case of emergency carbonated water will do.

Tip 5: Being discreet

Bring the LoFric travel certificate (Medical Validation Certificate)! This explains in ten different languages why you are carrying catheters in your luggage. There is also a section on the certificate that urges the customs service staff and TSA officials to show discretion. Download the certificate here.

Tip 6: Medication Abroad

If you take any medication, it is wise to pack this in your carry-on bag. Be aware that some medication requires certain certificates. Ask at your pharmacy or your doctor.

Summary - Things to Mark off Your Checklist

• I have packed enough catheters
• I have divided the catheters between my carry-on bag and my other luggage
• I have chosen the catheters considering my travel destination
• I have also brought hand sanitizer and wet wipes
• I have a LoFric travel certificate

 

Download our travel checklist by clicking here!