Travelling with a stoma should never stop you seeing the world, but airport security can feel like one of the more daunting parts of any trip. Explaining why you are carrying scissors, sprays and a supply of stoma bags is not always easy, particularly if you do not speak the local language.

That is where a stoma travel certificate comes in. It is a short, official document that explains, in English and in the language of the country you are visiting, that you have a stoma and need to carry your ostomy supplies with you at all times. It is free, it fits in your passport wallet, and it can take a great deal of stress out of the security queue.

Below, we explain what the certificate is, when you might need one, how to use it, and where to download the Medilink® travel certificate in the language you need.

What is a stoma travel certificate?

A stoma travel certificate is a card or single-page document that confirms you have a stoma and that the items you are carrying are medically necessary. It is written in English alongside a translation, so airport staff, customs officers and hotel or healthcare staff abroad can understand your situation quickly without a lengthy conversation.

It typically confirms that you:

• Have undergone stoma surgery and wear a stoma appliance
• Need to carry ostomy pouches, wipes, sprays, adhesive removers and scissors in your hand luggage
• May need to use accessible or private facilities to change your appliance
• May need to be searched discreetly and in private rather than in an open security area.

The certificate is not a legal document and it does not override airline or airport security rules. It is best thought of as a communication tool, one that removes the language barrier and helps staff understand your needs at a glance.

Why do I need a travel certificate for my stoma supplies?

Most ostomates travel without difficulty. However, there are some situations where having a stoma travel certificate with you may be beneficial:

• Security screening. Body scanners and pat-downs can flag a stoma appliance. A certificate lets you explain the alert without having to discuss your medical condition in a busy queue.
• Scissors and liquids. Many ostomates carry small scissors for cutting a baseplate to size, plus adhesive removers and barrier sprays. These can attract attention at security, and a certificate helps explain why they are with you.
• Language barriers. If you are travelling to a country where you do not speak the language, a translated certificate can help communicate your medical needs to airport staff..
• Peace of mind. For many people, the biggest benefit is simply knowing it is available if you need it.

How to use your Medilink® travel certificate

Using your certificate is straightforward. Here’s how it works:

• Download the certificate in the language of the country you are visiting from the list below.
• Print a copy, and consider printing a second so you have a spare. Saving a digital copy to your phone as a backup is also sensible.
• Complete any personal details on the certificate before you travel.
• Keep it with your passport and boarding pass so it is easy to reach at security.
• If you need to explain your stoma appliance, show your certificate to staff at the earliest appropriate opportunity. This can help make the screening process more straightforward.

If you are travelling to more than one country, download a certificate for each relevant language.

Download your Medilink® travel certificate