How to stay comfortable, prepared, and symptom-free during holiday travel.

Holiday travel is stressful enough — long lines, delayed flights, crowded airplanes, nonstop family events. But for people managing GERD, IBS, or IBD, travel can also mean worrying about flare-ups, bathroom access, or uncomfortable symptoms far from home.

The good news? With the right preparation, you can travel confidently and keep your digestive system as calm as possible.

Below are expert-backed tips from the gastroenterologists at Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey (GANJ) to make your trip smoother and more comfortable.

1. Bring a Travel-Ready GI Kit

Pack a small, easily accessible pouch with essentials such as:

  • Prescription medications
  • Antacids or anti-gas medications
  • Electrolyte packets
  • Heating pad patches (great for cramps)
  • Safe snacks that won’t trigger symptoms
  • A refillable water bottle
  • Wet wipes / pocket tissues

Keeping everything together helps prevent emergencies — especially during flights or long car rides.

2. Follow Your Routine as Close as Possible

Travel disrupts everything: sleep, meal timing, bathroom habits, meds schedules. Try to stay consistent with:

  • Mealtimes
  • Water intake
  • Timing of medications
  • Fiber intake (don’t suddenly increase or decrease)

Your gut thrives on rhythm. When travel throws that rhythm off, symptoms can follow.

3. Choose Travel Snacks Wisely

Avoid high-fat, heavily spiced, or high-FODMAP foods while traveling. Instead, opt for:

  • Bananas
  • Rice cakes
  • Plain crackers
  • Oats
  • Pretzels
  • Low-fat yogurt
  • Simple sandwiches

Small, frequent snacks are gentler on the gut than large meals while on the go.

4. Map Out Bathroom Access Before You Need It

This is crucial for IBS and IBD travelers.

  • At airports, check terminal maps.
  • On road trips, note rest stops ahead of time.
  • If staying with family, choose sleeping arrangements near a bathroom.
  • Don’t hesitate to politely excuse yourself — your health comes first.

5. Stay Ahead of Stress (Your Gut Will Thank You)

Holiday travel comes with… holiday emotions. Stress can trigger GERD, IBS, and IBD symptoms.
Try simple tools during your trip:

  • Deep breathing exercises
  • Short walks after meals
  • Listening to calming music or guided meditations
  • Avoiding long periods of sitting in cramped positions

Your gut and brain are deeply connected — keeping one calm helps the other.

6. Beware of Common Holiday Triggers

These foods and drinks often worsen symptoms:

  • Alcohol
  • Coffee
  • Chocolate
  • Fried foods
  • Heavy cream-based dishes
  • Carbonated drinks
  • Spicy foods

If you know certain foods trigger you, avoid them during travel days.

7. Talk With Your Doctor Before Traveling

For those with IBD, frequent flare-ups, or chronic symptoms, a pre-travel check-in can help:

  • Adjust medications
  • Provide rescue prescriptions
  • Offer dietary or symptom-management strategies
  • Ensure you have enough medication for the entire trip

Planning ahead is key to staying well.

When to Seek Medical Care

If you experience severe abdominal pain, dehydration, bloody stool, persistent vomiting, or symptoms lasting more than a few days, seek medical attention. Don’t wait until you return home.

We’re Here to Help You Travel with Confidence

Managing GERD, IBS, or IBD shouldn’t hold you back from enjoying the holidays. At GANJ, our specialists help patients create personalized plans for symptom control — whether you’re staying local or flying across the country.

📞  Schedule a consultation today with one of our gastroenterologists. Call 888-452-0022 or request an appointment online.