Flare survival kit 💛

When you’re having a flare, little things can make a big difference. Having a few things ready can help you feel more comfortable, confident and prepared — especially when you’re going to school, seeing friends or leaving the house.

🎒 Keep a small flare bag

You could keep a small bag packed with things you might need:

• Spare underwear

• A change of clothes

• Toilet paper or tissues

• Gentle, unscented wipes

• A waterproof bag for dirty clothes

• Hand sanitiser

• Your water bottle

• Any medicines you need to take while you’re out

• A familiar snack if you’re able to eat

  
  

You don’t need to carry everything. Choose the things that make you feel prepared.

🚽 Know where the toilets are

When you arrive somewhere new, have a quick look for the nearest toilet.

Knowing where to go can take away some of the worry about “What if I suddenly need to go?”

If you’re at school, make sure the adults who need to know understand that you may need to use the toilet without waiting.

👕 Wear clothes you feel comfortable in

During a flare, you might feel bloated, sore or uncomfortable.

Choose clothes that feel comfortable and are easy to get on and off quickly. You don’t have to dress differently — just wear what makes you feel good.

💧 Keep a drink nearby

Keep your water bottle with you so you can drink regularly, especially if you’re having frequent diarrhoea.

If your healthcare team has recommended an oral rehydration solution, you may want to keep some available too.

🛋️ Give yourself somewhere to rest

If you’re tired or having tummy pain, having somewhere comfortable to sit or lie down can help.

At school, this might mean having a quiet place where you can take a break when you need one.

🎧 Bring something that helps you relax

Flares can be stressful.

You might feel more comfortable having something familiar with you, such as:

• Headphones

• Music

• A book

• A game

• Something small to keep your hands busy

  
  

📱 Keep someone you trust close

Having your phone or knowing who you can contact can make you feel safer when you’re away from home.

Make sure you know who you can call if you suddenly feel unwell or need help.

🗣️ Have a plan with the people around you

You don’t need to tell everyone about your IBD.

Choose a few trusted people who know what you need when you’re having a flare — such as a parent, teacher, school nurse or friend.

You could even have a simple phrase that means “I need to leave now.”

🧻 Don’t be afraid to prepare for accidents

Having spare underwear and clothes with you might feel embarrassing at first, but being prepared can actually make you feel less worried.

And if an accident does happen, remember:

It’s not your fault. You have IBD.

💛 Find what works for you

There’s no perfect flare kit and no right way to prepare.

Think about the things that make you feel comfortable, safe and confident.

Being prepared isn’t about expecting something to go wrong. It’s about knowing you’ll be okay if it does.