A big concern for anyone with IBS is where to find restrooms when traveling. Here are some tips for finding the restrooms, and planning your trip so you're never without one.
- If you're taking a car trip, contact tourist boards or an auto club to find restrooms on your route.
- Learn how to ask for the restroom in the native language (even if that language is English!).
- Obtain a good map of the city you're visiting, and make a note of areas that may have public restrooms: tourist info centers, shopping malls, hotels, and restaurants.
- Carry extra tissues or wet wipes in case there is no toilet paper available (this tip is important whether you're traveling across the world or just to your local supermarket).
- When traveling by plane, ask for a seat near the restroom, and don't be afraid to ask a flight attendant for help if there is a line.
- Some countries have pay toilets, so be sure to have change on hand just in case.
- Be sure your travel companions are aware of your condition, and ask them to scout for restrooms for you.
- If all else fails, don't be afraid to ask to use the restroom, even if there is no public one available. A polite request and an explanation that you are feeling ill usually does the trick (after all, no one wants you to be ill in the middle of their store or restaurant!).
