Traveling with Incontinence: A Caregiver’s Guide

Holidays are meant for relaxation, stress relief and spending time with family. Traveling with a loved one with incontinence shouldn’t stop either of you from enjoying yourselves. All it takes is some extra preparation so that both of you are comfortable and stress free.

We have some practical incontinence travel tips on how to control urine while traveling, to make sure your holiday goes as smoothly as possible.

As we age, many natural changes occur in the body that can impact health and daily activities. Aging in elderly adults can lead to physical and cognitive challenges that impair the ability to control bladder or bowel movements, often resulting in incontinence.

Incontinence, whether urinary or bowel, simply means that someone has trouble controlling when they go to the bathroom. It’s especially common in older adults, and it can show up in different ways. Some people might have a sudden, strong urge and not make it to the bathroom in time (urge incontinence), and others might leak when they sneeze or laugh (stress incontinence).¹ Then there’s overflow, where the bladder doesn’t empty properly or where physical or cognitive challenges get in the way (functional incontinence). Mixed incontinence means that there might be a combination of types.¹

These issues can make travel feel tricky. Worries about long journeys without a bathroom break, changing products during transit, or the stress of managing bladder leaks on the go are completely valid. But it’s worth remembering that many families are navigating the same thing. And the good news? With the right strategies, travel can still be smooth, stress-free, and full of memorable moments.

The more you prepare ahead of time, the easier and more relaxed the trip will feel. Here’s some caregiving travel advice to help get you started:

• Pick the right mode of travel: Cars often give you more control with more stops and more privacy. But flying or taking a train can work well too, as long as you have a plan in place.
• Map out toilet access: Look up rest stops if you’re driving, check where the toilets are at train stations, and find out about accessible bathrooms at airports. Knowing where you can stop brings peace of mind.²
• Keep your schedule flexible: Build in extra time for breaks or a slower pace. That way, no one feels rushed or stressed.
• Have a conversation ahead of time: Talk to your loved one about the trip. Ask what makes them feel comfortable, which incontinence products they prefer, and if they have any concerns. It’s all about making them feel included and heard.

Air travel may seem daunting when dealing with an overactive bladder, but we have a few tips to make it easier for you: 

• Book a seat near the front or back of the plane: Most airlines allow you to book your own seats. Try to book your seats close to the front or back of the plane, where the toilets are located, and try to get an aisle seat if possible. This way, if they feel an urge, they can simply get up and go as fast as possible. 
• Seek advice about medications: Certain medications (such as diuretics) can cause urgency. If the person you care for is on any medication like this, speak to a healthcare professional for advice on how to avoid the risk of incontinence while you’re traveling.
• Reduce alcohol and coffee intake before and during air travel: To avoid the need of frequent visits to the toilet while on the plane, try to reduce the amount of alcohol and caffeinated drinks your friend or relative takes in, as they can irritate the bladder. It’s important to stay hydrated, but it’s best to stick to water. 
• Get ahead of the crowds: Avoid stressful queues and rushing by arriving early at the airport. This way, your loved one will have time to locate and use the toilet in peace before the flight. You could also try to get a pass that allows you to board the plane early, so that you can get settled and comfortable before everyone else boards.
• Go before you fly: Be sure that the one you care for pays a visit to the toilet before the flight. They will be more comfortable once on board. If your family member or friend has fecal incontinence, sometimes a rectally administered laxative before leaving home can help them feel confident and safe on a flight.
• Wear easy-to-change clothing and products: Wearing clothing and travel incontinence products that are easy to change will make life easier when changing in cramped airplane toilets.
• Keep them comfy: A neck pillow and a light blanket can go a long way. Making sure your loved one is sitting comfortably during the flight can help them feel more relaxed and even have a little snooze. Some airlines will provide blankets and pillows on request. If you ask in advance you may be able to save valuable carry-on space by using these. Wearing compression socks will put gentle pressure on their legs and help to improve blood flow and reduce swelling.

• Plan your route: If you’re hitting the road, make sure to plan scheduled stops at service stations. Apps like Google Maps, Toilet Finder and Flush can show you where the available toilets are along motorways and major roads, so you can put your mind at ease in advance.
• Protective wear: When planning a long car trip, try using our product quiz selector. You can also add a protective sheet over the seat to help them feel more at ease.

Once you're on the move, a few smart tweaks can make all the difference in managing incontinence with confidence and ease.

• Dress for quick changes: Go for easy-to-remove clothing like elastic waistbands or loose-fitting trousers. This makes bathroom visits or quick product changes less stressful.²
• Plan toilet stops around departures: If you’re boarding a plane, hopping on a train, or heading out on a long drive, always take advantage of bathroom access before you get moving.³
• Choose seats strategically: If you're booking a flight or train, try to reserve seats close to the toilet.³ It’s a simple way to ease anxiety and make bathroom trips faster and more convenient.
• Handle changes discreetly: Keep a small bag stocked with all the essentials: wipes, fresh products, a plastic or sealable bag for used items, and a change of underwear or clothing.² For extra privacy, use toilet cubicles with hooks or surfaces where you can organize things quickly and comfortably, even in tight or public spaces.

Long trips can be tough on the skin, especially if your loved one is sitting for extended periods or managing frequent changes. A little extra care can help prevent discomfort and irritation.

• Clean and dry after every change: It’s important to gently cleanse the skin to remove any residue and moisture. Products like TENA ProSkin Ultra Adult Wipes are great for on-the-go use and are gentle on sensitive skin.
• Use barrier creams ahead of time: Applying a thin layer of barrier cream before travel can protect the skin from friction and moisture, especially in warm or humid environments.
• Choose breathable clothing and products: Avoid plastic-backed incontinence products if overheating is a concern. Go for breathable fabrics that allow air to circulate.
• Stay well hydrated: It might seem counterintuitive, but staying hydrated helps. Concentrated urine can react with skin and cause irritation.

With the right prep and a few thoughtful tricks, your journey can be as comfortable as it is enjoyable.

A well-stocked travel bag can ease a lot of stress, especially when it’s tailored to incontinence care. Packing smart means you’re ready for anything, without having to scramble.

Here’s a helpful checklist to guide you:

• Absorbent pads, pull-ups, or liners. Bring more than you think you'll need, just in case. TENA’s Incontinence Briefs are a great place to start if you're looking for reliable options.
• Products that protect: Barrier creams, talc-free powder, cleansing wipes, and sanitizing gel to keep skin clean and soothed. The TENA skincare range offers travel-friendly must-haves.
• Waterproof incontinence bed pads. These can be a lifesaver, especially in cars, trains or hotels when you’re unsure about the surfaces you’ll be using. TENA’s Bed Underpads are easy to pack and super discreet.
• Spare underwear and outfit changes. Pack these in a zip bag so they’re quick to grab.
• Disposal bags. To discreetly toss used products.
• Odor-neutralizing spray. Perfect for public restrooms or shared spaces.

Pro tip: Put together a dedicated incontinence kit and keep it in your carry-on or somewhere easy to access. It saves you the stress of digging through bags mid-journey.

Even with the best prep, sometimes things don’t go quite as expected and that’s okay. Staying flexible is part of the journey. Watch out for signs that your loved one might not be feeling their best. This could include:

• Discomfort or changes in skin condition.
• Signs of a possible urinary tract infection in the elderly such as a fever or confusion.¹
• Extreme tiredness or irritability.
• Difficulty moving around, especially if mobility is already a challenge.

If your loved one has complex medical needs, it’s always a good idea to check in with their doctor before traveling. If you need to take more breaks or shorten the trip, it’s not a failure. It’s putting their comfort and health first.

Incontinence isn’t just physical, it can take an emotional toll too. Many feel embarrassed, frustrated, or worried about being a burden. Caregivers play an important role in helping them feel safe and supported. Follow these elderly care tips:

• Stay calm and kind. If there’s an accident a matter-of-fact attitude helps normalize the experience.
• Involve your loved one. When planning and packing, include them to help them feel more in control.
• Use gentle, reassuring language. Validate how they’re feeling but don’t make it the center of the trip either.

Keep the mood light and focus on the little joys of the journey. Dignity, privacy, and a sprinkle of humor can go a long way. Don’t let incontinence stand in the way of your travel plans. With the right prep, a positive mindset, and a bit of flexibility, it can still be fun, fulfilling, and filled with great memories.

As the caregiver, your effort matters more than you know. You’re not just planning a trip, you’re helping someone you care for stay connected to the world.