I am definitely in same boat I take my urinal it helps some. Still do not like to travel much still. Flying would be out of the question hope you get some good advice.

I use oxybutin as well as oxytrolforwomenfree ( over the counter ) perhaps a pad? Poise or Tena. Good Luck and have a good trip!

I know exactly where you are coming from. I have a similar problem and tried all the suggestions mentioned. I have actually been online and purchased a "shepee" which is a device enabling you to stand and pee, That's ok if you know you need to go. Other methods I will use are Super strength pads and Depend continence pants. Wearing dark clothing on lower half of body and carrying a long sleeve top which can be tied round the waist if necessary. Good luck Cloudsint. and if anybody has any other helpful ideas I would appreciate reading them. Am waiting for Botox injections into the bladder but that wont be for a few months,

Thank you all for your advice. It sounds like the pads might be what I need for at little peace of mind... I'll keep trying with the oxybutynin for awhile. Some sites on the Internet say that it can take 6-8 weeks for full efficacy.
Do you think I need a super strength pad, or would a medium do? The medium seems like it might be a bit more inconspicuous, but maybe not enough?

I think the medium would work. I use the poise pad light absorbancy with wings & that works well if I am out of the house. I use a panty liner in the house or if I am confident in the bathroom situation. I saw a PT for bladder urgency a few years ago & she helped w/specialized exercises & increased awareness of muscle control. I would really encourage you after your trip to look into a PT for bladder control.

I used Tena underwear combined with max coverage pad for over night.Keeps me totally dry. Highly recommend. Botox is next step and finally sprapubic catheter if it becomes too disabling.

Melanie

If you are finding it a fairly often issue then definately either pads or pants. The advantage of pants is that you don't have to try to make sure they are in the right place too. I would go for the pants for travel & remember you can probably buy them in uk too so I m sure if you ask on here or do a bit of research you will find you can buy them there so wont need to carry enough for the trip. Also I am sure your friends would be able to tell you if/where they are available & source them for you.
A friend of mine has travelled from Australia to Europe (various places), USA, UK, Japan etc & was able to make sure she could get them everywhere before she went. Some hotels/chalet/hostels got them in for her, her friends in USA knew where to get them from etc. Don't let it be a concern.
if you are staying for friends don't be embarrassed about asking them in advance as I am sure they wouldn't mind. (put yourself in their place & you wouldn't mind either).
That would be my idea.

It may be too late to see your urologist but I find it helpful to completely empty my bladder by using a catheter. I have tried oxybutynin and it dried up my throat so much that I couldn't take it. Using a catheter really helps me but I do not have the urgency that most have. But it stops the frequency and need to go as often. Plus I am unable to empty my bladder voluntarily most of the time so I have to catheterize.

My urologist gave me samples of that new bladder drug, Myrbetriq. I haven't tried it yet because I do not want to add it to my prescriptions but he gave me a bunch of free samples and perhaps your doc could do the same for you. It is new and just on the market and supposed to work in a different way and not make your mouth dry.