A guide to our best incontinence supplies for traveling

Chad Birt

Written by Chad Birt on Fri Nov 08 2024.

A guide to our best incontinence supplies for traveling

Traveling is a lot of fun, but if you’re managing incontinence symptoms, there’s an additional layer of planning to consider. Delayed flights, long train rides, or limited access to restrooms may mean you’ll need to change or refresh incontinence products on the go.

To make planning easier, we’ve created this shoppable list of our best incontinence supplies for travel. It briefly covers each product category and highlights some of our top picks to keep you comfortable and confident on your trip.

Incontinence Product Categories: A Brief Introduction

Before you start shopping, it’s important to understand the different types of incontinence products. Here’s a quick overview:

Incontinence underwear with tabs (AKA: tab-briefs)

Also known as tab-style briefs, these incontinence products have velcro-like tabs on the sides that can be adjusted for a custom fit. Tab-style underwear is typically recommended for people with heavy incontinence or those who need assistance with changing. 

Pull on incontinence underwear (AKA: pull ons)

Pull-on incontinence underwear looks similar to regular underwear. It has two leg holes and an elastic waistband. Pull-ons are made of clothlike fabric and protect against mild to moderate incontinence. They’re a great option for mobile people who can handle changes themselves. 

Booster pads

Booster pads are supplementary incontinence products. They can be inserted inside pull ons or tab-style briefs and increase their overall capacity. Since booster pads increase a product’s absorbency, they’re great to have on hand when traveling.

Bladder pads

Bladder pads are worn inside regular underwear. They’re stand-alone products that protect against mild to moderate urinary incontinence. Bladder pads capture urine and prevent it from leaking onto clothing.

Underpads

Underpads or “chux” are large, rectangular mats with an absorbent core. They can be draped over bedding, seating, or mobility devices, and provide a waterproof barrier that protects against urine, feces, and other messes. 

Wipes

When changing incontinence products, it’s important to remove urine, stool, and bacteria from the skin to prevent irritation and infection. High-quality alcohol-free wipes make changes quick and convenient while helping to maintain the skin’s natural barrier. 

Gloves

Changing incontinence products can be messy, but nitrile exam gloves protect your skin from harmful bacteria and help maintain a clean environment. They can be tossed immediately after use and the box fits into most purses, backpacks, and carry-on bags for convenience. 

How We Chose the Products On This List

The items featured on this list are a mix of our top-rated and best-selling incontinence products. Whenever possible, we’ve included real customer feedback under the heading, “Hear It From a Caregiver/User.” 

Carewell’s 8 Best Incontinence Supplies for Traveling

Here are our recommended incontinence travel supplies:

1. Seni Super Quatro Adult Diapers with Tabs

These Seni Super Quatro adult diapers with tabs are heavily absorbent and support urine and bowel incontinence. They’re a great option for those taking long road trips or extended flights because they provide up to 12 hours of protection. The super absorbent core locks in moisture and reduces bacterial growth to prevent odors.

Key Benefits & Features

  • The double-wetness indicator changes color to help caregivers know when it’s time for a new diaper.

  • The fully breathable outer layer allows humidity to evaporate, keeping the wearer’s skin dry and comfortable.

  • The tabs are adjustable and secure snugly around the waist, reducing the risk of leaks and accidents.

Pros

  • These diapers support urinary and bowel incontinence.

  • Perfect for those with low mobility who need heavy incontinence protection. 

  • These diapers come in five sizes: small, regular, medium, large, and extra large.

Cons

  • Some users say the material is too thick and rubs against the skin.

  • Some users say these diapers run small. (We recommend trying two sizes first so you can compare and contrast).

  • Some users say the adjustable tabs don’t stick well.

Hear It From a Caregiver: “Excellent diaper, very similar to wearing a cloth diaper. Very comfortable and absorbent. They cost a bit more but [are] worth the money in my opinion.” - Brandon W. 

Seni Super Quatro Adult Diapers with Tabs
Seni Super Quatro Adult Diapers with Tabs

Price: $16.22 - $59.98

2. Tranquility Premium Overnight Disposable Absorbent Underwear

This pull on style Tranquility incontinence underwear is a customer favorite. It’s made of 100% breathable materials and supports urine and bowel incontinence. The elastic kufguards draw urine to the center and the absorbent core can hold up to 34 ounces of urine –– the equivalent of three voids. Most importantly, the core locks in moisture, preventing leaks, and allowing the wearer to sleep soundly through the night.

Key Benefits & Features

  • The clothlike material is gentle on the skin and quiet when you move.

  • These pull-ons feature a form-fitting elastic waistband and leg elastics for a comfortable and secure fit.

  • The tear-away sides make changes easier, whether you’re stopped at a gas station or inside an airport bathroom.

Pros

  • The built-in odor reduction technology neutralizes the smell of urine and stool. 

  • The fabric is latex-free and hypoallergenic, so it's safe for people with sensitive skin.

  • The full-rise waist panel reduces the risk of leaks when the wearer is lying down.

Cons

  • Some caregivers report that these diapers are bulky. 

  • Some users find that these pull-ons don’t hug the legs well, which can lead to leaks.

  • Finding the right fit may require trying several sizes.

3. TENA Intimates Overnight Incontinence Pads, Maximum Absorbency

These TENA overnight incontinence pads are designed to support the female anatomy. They can be slipped inside regular or incontinence underwear, providing extra protection against wetness, odor, and leaks. The 3D technology quickly wicks away moisture and protects sensitive, intimate skin, reducing the risk of rash and irritation.

Key Benefits & Features

  • Trusted by millions of women worldwide to protect against urinary incontinence.

  • Designed for overnight use so you can sleep soundly and limit nighttime toilet trips.

  • The exclusive 3D technology wicks away moisture and keeps skin protected.

Pros

  • The super-absorbent core protects against heavy bladder leakage, whether you’re standing up or lying down.

  • Each pad is individually wrapped for discretion and easy transport.

  • Protects skin, clothing, and furniture from heavy urinary incontinence.

Cons

  • These incontinence pads are for women only. 

  • These pads only protect against urinary incontinence (not bowel).

  • These pads are one size fits most.

Hear It From a User: “The absorbency is excellent. The thickness is appropriate for the use and the moisture is seldom noticeable, even after overnight use. I often use this Tena pad when I know I will be in the public for over two hours. I have always remained confident in its dependability. Best option out there.” - Chantal D. 

4. TENA Men Maximum Guard Incontinence Pad

This TENA maximum guard is designed specifically for the male anatomy. It has a comfortable, curved cup shape and can be worn inside regular or incontinence underwear. The ultra-absorbent dry fast core provides hours of protection for mild to moderate urinary incontinence.

Key Benefits & Features

  • An adhesive strip keeps the incontinence pad securely in place when worn with brief-style underwear.

  • The pad contains super-absorbent polymers that retain liquid and keep it locked in.

  • Shaped to support the male anatomy, the cup provides a discreet and comfortable wearing experience.

Pros

  • Each male incontinence guard comes individually wrapped for discretion and easy transport.

  • Provides several hours of protection from mild to moderate urinary incontinence.

Cons

  • These incontinence pads are for men only.

  • Some users report that these incontinence pads don’t absorb much urine, so leaks may occur.

  • Some users say these pads aren’t big enough to provide protection when doing physical tasks, such as golfing and yard work.

Hear It From a Caregiver: “Yay! These really helped take care of my husband’s incontinence issues.” - Wilma F.

TENA Men Maximum Guard Incontinence Pad for Men, Maximum Absorbency,
TENA Men Maximum Guard Incontinence Pad

Price: $13.99 - $57.19

5. Tranquility TopLiner Contour Booster Pads

These Tranquility TopLiner booster pads provide an extra layer of incontinence protection to both pull-on and tab-style diapers. They’re especially beneficial when traveling because once the pad is full, you can easily pull it out and dispose of it without having to change the entire diaper. The wide hourglass shape is highly absorbent and comfortably accommodates larger bodies.

Key Benefits & Features

  • These booster pads support urine and bowel incontinence.

  • The Peach Mat Core locks in moisture, keeping the wearer’s skin dry and comfortable.

  • An ideal, economical solution for extending the life of incontinence underwear.

Pros

  • Individually wrapped for discretion and easy transport.

  • Great for incontinence protection while traveling.

  • Safe for sensitive skin. These pads are made without rubber or latex.

Cons

  • These underpads must be worn with incontinence underwear. If worn with regular underwear, they leak.

  • These underpads don’t have an adhesive strip, so some users say it’s difficult to keep them in the correct position.

  • Some users with heavy incontinence report that these booster pads don’t provide enough leak protection.

Hear It From a Caregiver: “I love these pads as much as I do the Tranquility slim super booster pads. These will work great for the long airline flights that I will be taking in the future. You just place them in your disposable brief/disposable underwear, and you’re ready to go.” - Samantha

Tranquility TopLiner Booster Pads
Tranquility TopLiner Booster Pads

Price: $8.99 - $70.76

6. Prevail Total Care Underpads, Super

These Prevail Total Care underpads are great to have on hand if you’re waiting at the airport, train station, or bus depot. They provide extra protection for any seating or mobility device exposed to leakage. They come in multiple sizes and soak up moisture quickly, providing peace of mind while traveling. 

Key Benefits & Features

  • An affordable and effective way to protect furniture, clothing, and bedding from incontinence.

  • These underpads can be used for ostomy bag changes, wound care, and other caregiving purposes.

  • The soft topsheet is comfortable and easy on the skin.

Pros

  • The plastic backing traps liquid inside the underpad so furniture and bedding stay dry.

  • The underpads come in two sizes: 30 x 30 inches and 30 x 36 inches.

  • The underpads are disposable. Once you’re done using it, throw it in the trash.

Cons

  • Some caregivers report that these underpads don’t protect against heavy incontinence, so some leakage is possible.

  • Some users say the fabric isn’t very strong and rips easily.

  • Some caregivers note that the underpads are slippery, causing them to shift if someone is lying on top.

Hear It From a Caregiver: “[These underpads are] always reliable. Good size for both the bed and wheelchair. It has a plastic backing so there are no leaks.” - Robin A.

Prevail Total Care Underpads, Super,PV-410,30 x 36" - Pack of 10
Prevail Total Care Underpads, Super

Price: $6.69 - $43.50

7.  Prevail Adult Wipes with Lotion, Unscented

High-quality adult wipes make changing incontinence products easy. These Prevail wipes clean the skin of urine, feces, and bacteria, and leave behind a soothing mix of chamomile, aloe, and vitamin E that moisturizes and protects the skin. The single-hand dispenser makes grabbing one wipe at a time easy, whether you’re in an airport bathroom or changing a diaper in the back of your rental car.

Key Benefits & Features

  • Each wipe is 12 x 8 inches, allowing for quick, hassle-free diaper changes and cleanups.

  • These wipes are strong and don’t easily tear.

  • Each wipe contains hypoallergenic lotion that supports skin wellness.

Pros

  • These wipes are unscented, so they’re a great option for people with sensory sensitivities.

  • The wipes come in a soft pack with an easy-open lid for stress-free dispensing.

  • The wipes are made of hypoallergenic fabric and infused with aloe and vitamin E to reduce the risk of diaper rash and other skin irritation.

Cons

  • Some caregivers report that the wipes aren’t very moist out of the package.

  • Some caregivers note that the wipes are too thin and the packaging can make it difficult to remove one wipe at a time.

Hear It From a User: “I like the size and quality of the cloth. [I’m] very satisfied in all respects.” - Judith H.

Prevail Adult Wipes with Lotion, Unscented
Prevail Adult Wipes with Lotion, Unscented

Price: $3.97 - $43.19

8. McKesson Confiderm 3.8 Powder-Free Nitrile Exam Gloves

Changing incontinence products can be messy at any time, especially when you’re on vacation. Keeping disposable gloves in your travel bag makes changes easier and provides a more sterile environment for you and your loved one. These McKesson nitrile exam gloves are a customer favorite and include 100 pairs per box.

Key Benefits & Features

  • Nitrile is a strong material that can withstand punctures and chemicals. 

  • These gloves can be worn on either hand and are easy to put on and take off.

  • The beaded cuff keeps the glove securely on your hand and prevents slippage.

Pros

  • These gloves are made without rubber or latex, so they’re safe for people with allergies.

  • These gloves are available in four sizes: Small, medium, large, and extra-large.

  • The textured fingertips provide excellent textile sensitivity and dexterity.

Cons

  • Some caregivers report that the gloves are too thick and can affect finger dexterity.

  • Some users report that the gloves have an unpleasant smell.

Hear It From a Caregiver: “The quality is as good as more expensive gloves [that I've] purchased at drug stores and for half the price. I’m satisfied with the overall performance of these gloves.” - Debra T. 

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Have Questions About Incontinence and Travel? We’re Here For You!

If you’re preparing to go on vacation and are managing incontinence symptoms, you probably have questions. Our friendly Care Team speaks English and Spanish, is available 24/7, and is here to help. They can answer your questions and make product recommendations. Call (800) 696-2273 or email support@carewell.com. We’re here to support you!

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Chad Birt
Chad Birt

Chad Birt is a freelance medical writer who resides in Astoria, Oregon. When he isn't behind a keyboard, you can find him hiking, camping, or birdwatching with his wife Ella and their two dogs, Diane and Thoreau.