Backpacking with an Ostomy: Tips for Using a Waist Belt

I have an ileostomy and I hike with a small pack, but I'd like to graduate to a big pack with a waist belt so I can hike and pioneer camp. The only thing is, I'm worried the waist belt will be on my ostomy. Does anyone backpack and can share their experience?

Backpack? No, but I do carry duck decoys that have a waist belt on the bag. No real issues, but I'm usually wearing multiple layers and chest waders. I do have a StomGuard belt, and it protects your whole stoma area quite well. You could easily cinch the waist strap from a backpack over it, and you'd probably never feel it. It's very comfortable to wear.

Thank you!

I have done quite a few multi-day backpacking trips. Most recently, three days in Bryce and three days in Zion. I did not have any issues with my pack. I have had my ileostomy for a long time. I adjust my shoulder straps so the belt is comfortable, and it is fine. Have fun out there!

I hike some and travel by air a bit, always using a backpack as my carry-on. I've found over time that I have to wear a hernia support belt (Nu Hope) and a bag support wrap (Ostomy Secrets) and have had no problems. To be fair, I am not carrying 60-pound packs on three-day hikes, so my experience and free advice are worth what you paid for it! :)

Words of Encouragement from Ostomy Advocates I Hollister

I'm not much of a hiker but I did do the Subway in Zion about 20 years ago. Hadn't really thought about it for a long while until your post here. Beautiful place. Thanks for the reminder.