Courtesy of Liam Robertson

Liam Robertson is a writer and passionate chronic illness advocate living with ulcerative colitis. He shares his experiences and insights on Instagram @livingwithulcerativecolitis and in his book, More Than Meets the Eye: Living With Ulcerative Colitis, which explores the emotional and social impacts of the disease. Diagnosed several years ago, he’s transformed his personal experience into a platform for empowering others. Liam believes in the power of active self-advocacy, particularly in challenging medical norms and encouraging open dialogue about chronic illness. He’s dedicated to breaking down the stigma surrounding UC and fostering a supportive community where individuals feel comfortable sharing their experiences. Liam is a firm believer that understanding and managing UC involves a careful approach, encompassing not just medical treatment, but also physical health, stress management, and prioritizing general well-being. When not advocating for others, Liam enjoys walks with his dog, pushing his physical limits in the gym when able, and cherishing quiet moments of solitude.

What has your experience been with traveling with UC? How does travel look different for you now that you have the condition?

Probably one of the most underappreciated complexities of living with UC is traveling. It’s definitely something that adds a whole new layer of stress to planning trips. For a while, the thought of being far from home, my usual routines, and, frankly, my own trusted toilet, felt quite daunting. However, I’m happy to say that with careful planning and a bit of a shift in mindset, I’ve managed to enjoy some wonderful trips, both here in Scotland and further afield.

My experience has taught me that thorough preparation is absolutely non-negotiable. The more I plan, the more I can anticipate potential issues, and that significantly reduces my anxiety, allowing me to actually relax and enjoy the experience, at least a little bit.

Here are some of my top tips that I’ve found invaluable:

Medication, Medication, Medication

This is always my number one priority. I make sure to pack at least a few days extra supply of all my medications, and crucially, these always travel in my hand luggage. The risk of checked luggage going astray is just too high. I also carry a copy of my prescription and a clear letter from my GP or hospital consultant explaining my condition and the necessity for the medications I carry. This doesn’t have to be a paper print or anything fancy, even just a photo of it in your phone to show someone helps a lot. This is really important for airport security and can be helpful if, heaven forbid, I needed medical attention while away. I also double-check any specific rules for carrying medication into the country I’m visiting.

The “Just in Case” Kit

I have a small, discreet additions to my luggage that I take with me pretty much everywhere when traveling. This contains essentials like spare underwear, a pack of wet wipes, tissues, and hand sanitizer. Just knowing that stuff is there, in my bag, an arm’s reach away, provides an enormous amount of peace of mind.

Toilet Access Is Key

This is a big one! Before I go, and while I’m out exploring, I try to be constantly aware of where toilet facilities might be. Here in the UK, having a RADAR key for access to disabled public toilets is an absolute lifesaver. When traveling abroad, I look for apps that help locate public toilets, and I often research main transportation hubs or attractions online beforehand to see what facilities they have. Choosing accommodation with a private, easily accessible bathroom is also a non-negotiable for me. I also carry a “Can’t Wait” card which can be helpful for discreetly explaining the urgency if I need to access a toilet quickly in a shop or restaurant. Although if I am being perfectly honest, I have never had to use it. Not yet anyway.

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Comprehensive Travel Insurance

This is absolutely essential, and I never travel abroad without it. I make sure my policy fully covers pre-existing conditions like ulcerative colitis, and I declare my condition fully and honestly when getting quotes. It can be more expensive, and sometimes requires looking at specialist insurance providers, but the peace of mind knowing I’m covered for any potential medical emergencies is priceless.

Pace Yourself and Be Flexible

I’ve learned not to overschedule myself when I’m traveling. Building in plenty of downtime, opportunities for rest, and not trying to cram too much into each day really helps to manage fatigue and reduce stress, which can only be a good thing for keeping UC symptoms calm. Sometimes plans have to change, and being mentally prepared for that flexibility is important. Usually if I know I have somewhere to be that day, whether a flight, and excursion, or something else that involves travel, I get up at least an hour earlier than I need to. I use that time to drink water, walk around my hotel room or wherever I am, and get my bowels moving. Making sure I can go to the bathroom before I leave helps a lot and reduces the chance of any accidents.

Communicate With Travel Companions

If I’m traveling with friends or family, I’ll usually have a quiet, straightforward chat with them beforehand about my UC. It just helps them understand that I might need more frequent or urgent toilet stops, or that there might be moments when I’m not feeling 100%. However, the majority of the time, whoever I am traveling with will know my situation well.

Travel definitely takes more effort and forethought than it used to, but for me, the joy and new experiences that traveling brings, especially when I’m feeling well, are absolutely worth that extra layer of planning. It’s about finding ways to explore the world safely and comfortably.

Want to learn more about travel with a chronic condition? Read more, here:

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