Nothing beats returning home to your toilet after not pooping for four days during a trip. Not being able to poop on vacation is actually super common for a lot of people. If you’re wondering, why can’t I poop on vacation? here’s why, and what you can do to help.
Why can’t I poop on vacation?
#1 Time Changes
When we travel, normal schedules and routines go out the window, especially if you’re swapping time zones. This change can make trips exciting, but it can wreak havoc on our digestive system. That comfortable and familiar morning poop may fall (or not) in the middle of the day or at 3 AM in your new destination.
#2 Dietary Changes
Our eating and drinking habits often look different when traveling. We are not going to recommend that you swap out a vacation piña colada for your typical Tuesday salad. But we do want you to know that different intakes can cause different outcomes.
#3 Dehydration
Another culprit of travel constipation is dehydration. Regardless of whether the lack of water intake is intentional or not, it can be a factor in stopping the number two train.
What to do to avoid not pooping on vacation
Step 1: Hydrate
Dehydration is one of the biggest reasons for vacation constipation. Dehydration is especially a factor when flying. While the thought of an airplane bathroom might initiate your gag reflex, staying hydrated is essential.
To keep regular while traveling, drink plenty of water. If water isn’t your preferred beverage, try sipping tea, coffee, or warm water with each meal and snack. This is especially important if you are switching time zones or on a long flight.
Step 2: Eat Prunes
Prunes, prunes, the magical fruit! Did you know that prunes have a natural stool-softening and laxative effect? They travel well and offer constipation relief! Do your future self a favor and pack a few at the ready.
Step 3: Take Probiotics
Probiotics also help aid digestion and keep your gut healthy. If you need to take a probiotic, consider starting before you embark on your next adventure. I consume these daily, and I even travel with them.
Step 4: Poop properly
You all know I am a Squatty Potty evangelist. Unfortunately, you may not have access to your everyday Squatty Potty. Here are a few alternative options to consider:
- First, Squatty Potty makes a lightweight travel stool that folds up! If you can’t add one to your luggage, no worries, keep reading.
- Try placing a bathroom trash can on its side to elevate your feet into the squatting position.
- You can also use your suitcase!
This squatting position helps relax your pelvic floor muscles to empty the tank. If you are new here, it’s important to learn more about proper pooping techniques. Make sure to avoid straining or holding your breath. Instead, exhale like you are blowing out birthday candles.
What to pack so you can poop on vacation
If you’re worried you might get backed up on your next adventure, keep this list handy for things to pack!
- A refillable water bottle
- A portable squatty potty
- Prunes
- Probiotics
- Your workout clothes (exercise helps prevent constipation!)
- Stool softener or magnesium
- Your snacks, such as bananas
What to eat to help avoid constipation
A high-fiber diet full of fruits and vegetables will help you avoid symptoms of constipation. Fiber can also help make bowel movements easier to pass.
Did you know you can pack healthy snacks and take them through TSA when traveling? Fiber rich foods to consider bringing are whole grains and snacks like bananas. Also, avoid fatty, processed foods such as fast food and red meats.
How to poop when you’re constipated
- Exercise and walk – Stay active, or even do some simple stretches and exercises to get your bowels moving.
- Colon massage – An abdominal massage clockwise around your belly can help get things moving. Spend some time on the lower left side, where bowel movements are often backed up.
- A stool softener or magnesium – Stimulant laxatives should only be used when necessary! Instead, try Magnesium – It helps with constipation by keeping your poops soft. My favorite brand is Natural Calm. They have a powder mix or convenient gummies for travel or on the go.
- Consume prunes and probiotics – Two reasons for constipation are not enough fluids, and not enough fiber. I pack my prunes in a zip lock bag, start each day with a cup of warm water and add in a daily probiotic.
- Stay hydrated – Drinking lots of water or try warm water in the morning.
What to do while in the air
Road trips and air travel are synonymous with long bouts of sitting. It can be challenging, but be proactive and walk or stretch as much as possible. Movement is key both in transit and at your destination to keep poop moving through your colon.
Exercise also helps to bring blood flow to support your pelvic floor muscles relax. Here are a few travel-friendly exercises to consider:
- Walking
- Jogging
- Lunges
- Deep squat holds
- Dancing
When on the airplane, choose an aisle seat. I recommend standing and walking around once an hour during flights, so an aisle seat makes this much easier.
Also, you may have to frequent the bathroom to tinkle a time or two. Don’t delay the urge to go.
When the urge to poop arrives, get to the bathroom. If you wait for the urge, that poop will hang out in your body longer, making it harder to empty later. So get to it!
Pooping shouldn’t be hard – in any way! If you’re struggling with constipation, incomplete emptying, or any pelvic floor related issues check out the V-Hive membership. Your first 7 days are free!
