Can You Go to a Water Park With an Ostomy? My Story and the Ostomy Belt That Saved the Day

Can you go to a water park with an ostomy? Absolutely, and I'm living proof. There's nothing quite like spending a sunny day at the waterpark with my kids. But when you've got an ostomy, those carefree days come with a few extra considerations.

The First Time I Tested the Waters

Before I ever brought my kids along, I decided to test myself with a solo trip, and I didn't ease into it. I went straight to Schlitterbahn, one of the largest water parks in the world, to find out once and for all if I could still enjoy every ride with an ostomy. In my younger days, before surgery, I was into wakeboarding, water skiing, and surfing, so I figured a water park should feel like second nature. Instead, I remember being excited and nervous in equal measure, with no idea how my body (or my appliance) would hold up ride after ride.

I got my answer fast. My appliance actually tore loose mid ride on one of the water slides. My first instinct was pure panic, but I had a backup supply stashed in a locker, nearly a mile away across the park. The only reason I could make that walk without an emergency change on the spot was the belt I had on that day, an early design of mine at the time. It kept everything contained enough that I could calmly cross the entire park, get to my locker, and handle it on my own terms, no rushing to find a bathroom, no asking a stranger or a lifeguard for help.

It was stressful in the moment, but looking back, it's one of the clearest proof points I have: a proper support belt isn't just about comfort, it's about buying yourself time and options when something goes wrong. And it proved something bigger, too: that I really could do this.

Now, It's Just Another Day with the Kids

These days, going to the waterpark with my kids is a regular thing, and I don't carry any of that old anxiety with me anymore. When I go to a waterpark, my main goal is simple: make sure everything is contained and concealed so I can just have fun. I'm not trying to stop and explain my situation to curious strangers. I just want to enjoy the slides, the lazy river, and the laughter, without worrying about my ostomy bag.

That's why my support belt is absolutely essential. Picture this: I'm at the top of the giant "Volcanic Wedgie" ride, the one that drops you straight down and spins you around like a human pinball. The last thing I want is for anything to shift, leak, or come loose mid ride. I definitely don't want to be the guy who shuts down a waterpark ride because his ostomy bag ripped off.

Wearing the right ostomy support belt means security, comfort, and confidence. For me, the horizontal style works best in the water because it keeps the pouch flat against my side. It lets me walk around all day, soaking wet, splashing in the wave pool, floating the lazy river, climbing stairs, laughing with my kids, all without that constant "what if" running through my mind.

When I've got the right support, I don't have to think about my ostomy at all. I just get to be a Dad at a waterpark, having fun like everyone else, with no worries at all.

Of course, even with the best belt in the world, I never go to a waterpark without a backup supply. Things happen, and sometimes they happen when you least expect it.

I always bring an extra set of ostomy supplies and an extra support belt, just in case. (I share my full packing system in Traveling With an Ostomy.) Over the years, I've had just one occasion where the actual ostomy bag itself ripped from the seams and it may have been a random defect. When you're in the middle of a crowded park with long lines and security between you and your car, that's the last time you want to realize you left your supplies behind.

If you do need to change everything out, it's a whole lot easier when you already have your backup with you. You can store it in a locker at the waterpark or carry it in a small waterproof bag for the day. That little bit of preparation can make the difference between a stressful day and a smooth one.

Final Thoughts

When I first had my surgery, I honestly didn't think I'd ever get to go to a waterpark again. At the time, just imagining being in a swimsuit, going on slides, or riding something that drops straight down seemed impossible. But now, I know that not only can I go to the waterpark. I can ride all the rides, have a great time, and laugh right alongside my kids.

It does take a little bit of adjustment. There's some trial and error, a few lessons learned, and a lot of preparation. But the rewards (those moments of pure joy and quality time with family and friends) are absolutely worth it.

Living with an ostomy doesn't mean giving up the fun stuff. It just means planning ahead a little differently. With the right support belt and a smart backup plan, I can focus on what matters most: making memories, not worrying about my bag. The UOAA has more practical tips on swimming with an ostomy.

If you've ever hesitated to go on an adventure because of your ostomy, I promise. You can do it. Preparation gives you the confidence to live fully and enjoy the moment.

About the Author

Richard O’Hamill is the founder of O’Hamill Inc.™, a company dedicated to helping people with ostomies live active, confident, and empowered lives. After his own surgery in 2008, Richard made it his mission to create discreet, comfortable support wear designed to keep people moving, living, and thriving. When he's not designing or advocating, you can find him out in nature, enjoying adventures with his kids.