Attending a festival with your stoma may require some extra preparation and considerations, but it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the experience. Here are some top tips to help you have a comfortable and enjoyable time:

1. Plan your supplies: Make sure you have an adequate supply of your stoma supplies, including pouches, seals, and other accessories that you use. Pack more than you think you’ll need to be prepared for unexpected situations or emergencies. Try eakin Cohesive^® seals and eakin freeseal^® to help prevent leaks occurring giving you confidence to enjoy the festival and may help to extend your pouch weartime.
2. Stay hydrated: Festivals can be hot and crowded, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, which can affect your stoma output.
3. Comfortable clothing: Wear what makes you feel comfortable. eakin freeseal^® is our thinnest ever seal to help you stay comfortable in whatever clothing you decide to wear.
4. Find the closest toilet facilities: Locate the festival’s designated accessible toilets or facilities. Carry a small travel kit bag with your supplies for discreet transportation. You could consider eakin Perform™ solidifying agent to help thicken your output if you have limited access to toilet facilities. You can also consider a drainable pouch where there’s limited access to waste areas for disposal of closed pouches.
5. Take breaks when needed: Festivals can be physically demanding, so listen to your body and take breaks when necessary. Resting can help reduce fatigue and allow you to manage your stoma care effectively.
6. Stay mindful of food and drink choices: Be mindful of your diet during the festival, as certain foods and drinks can affect stoma output.
7. Carry odour products: If you’re concerned about odour, consider using a deodoriser to help neutralise any unwanted odours. Our eakin Release™ adhesive remover and eakin Protect™ barrier film have a fresh spearmint fragrance to help mask odours too.
8. Inform your friends: Let your friends know about your stoma and any specific needs or concerns you may have. They can provide support and understanding if any situations arise.
9. Take care of your skin: Proper skin care around your stoma is essential to prevent irritation and maintain a healthy stoma site. Cleanse the area gently and thoroughly, and ensure it is completely dry before applying a new pouch. Consider using eakin Contour™ flange extenders to help your pouch stay in place letting you get on with your day with that added security, whilst our eakin Protect™ barrier film can aid with pouch adhesion and protect your skin at the same time, making sore skin last thing on your mind.
10. Enjoy yourself and have fun: Remember that attending a festival is about having a great time. Don’t let your stoma hold you back from enjoying the music, atmosphere, and connecting with others. Embrace the experience and make unforgettable memories!