Essential Travel Tips for People with Diabetes

Preparing for Your Trip

Traveling with diabetes requires careful planning and preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The main challenge is managing blood glucose levels, as changes in diet, activity, sleep, stress, and weather can complicate diabetes management. However, with strategic planning, you can travel safely while managing your condition.

1. Schedule a Visit With Your Provider

Before traveling, it's important to schedule a visit with your doctor, especially if you're going on a long trip or traveling far from home. Your provider can check that your diabetes is under control and provide advice on medication and meal schedules if you're crossing time zones. They may also recommend a letter that outlines your treatment methods, medications, and allergies, which can be helpful during airport security checks or if you need medical assistance.

2. Get to Know TSA Rules

If you're flying, familiarize yourself with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules. Insulin pumps, glucose monitors, and diabetes medications are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags, but there are specific guidelines to follow. You must have insulin with you if you have an insulin pump, and other liquid medications are exempt from the 3.4-ounce limit. Bring medications in their original prescription bottles, and pack them in a clear, sealable bag for easy access during screening. Also, bring medical identification and contact information for your physician.

3. Pack Your Supplies Appropriately

Luggage and the supplies it contains can be lost, delayed, or damaged, which puts you at risk. To minimize this, overpack and split your supplies to create a safety net. Pack twice what you’ll need, including insulin, glucose tablets, snacks, testing supplies, and more. Keep at least half of your supplies with you in your carry-on luggage. Check expiration dates and avoid using expired insulin. Store insulin and injectable medications in your carry-on, not in checked baggage, as temperature and pressure changes can affect them. If you use a continuous glucose monitor, bring a spare in case the one you’re wearing gets damaged.

4. Prep Snacks and Treats

Plan for the possibility that your stops might not have what you need. Bring extra gummies, glucose tabs, juice boxes, and grab-and-go snacks to prevent low blood sugar. Have carb snacks to treat hypoglycemia and protein snacks to help prevent it.

5. Prepare for New Time Zones

Changing time zones can disrupt your routine, meal times, and sleep schedule. Make a plan in advance and consult your doctor about adjusting your insulin doses. The correct adjustment depends on factors such as whether you're traveling westbound or eastbound and how your long-acting insulin is scheduled. For example, patients who take a single shot of basal insulin might be advised to split the dose and take half every 12 hours, starting a few days before the trip.

6. Create a Backup Plan at Your Destination

Research pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics near your accommodations and save them in your phone. Different countries may have different brands of medicine, so plan backups and alternatives if needed.

7. Prepare for Potential Emergencies

Look up local emergency numbers and learn basic phrases in the local language. Save emergency numbers and your doctor’s contact information. Wear a medical ID, especially if you're traveling alone or have type 1 diabetes, as it can inform first responders during a health emergency.

8. Wear a Medical ID

A medical ID, such as a bracelet or necklace, provides essential health information to first responders. It is especially useful when you cannot communicate effectively during an emergency.

While You're Traveling

Travel can present additional challenges, such as long periods of sitting or limited access to food. Here are some tips to stay safe and healthy:

1. Keep Snacks Close at Hand

Carry carbohydrate snacks within reach, such as cheese and crackers, peanut butter snacks, fruit, juice boxes, and hard candy. Choose nourishing snacks like fruit, nuts, sandwiches, or yogurt to keep blood sugar stable.

2. Move Often

Sitting for long periods increases the risk of swelling and blood clots. Stop to stretch or walk every 60 to 90 minutes. If you're driving, take frequent breaks to get up and walk around. If you're flying, walk up and down the aisle or flex your feet while seated.

3. Check Your Blood Sugar Routinely

Don’t let travel disrupt your routine blood sugar checks. Set an alarm to check your glucose regularly. Monitor more frequently, especially during the first 24 to 48 hours of your trip.

4. Go Through Airport Security Like a Pro

Tell TSA officers that you have diabetes and diabetes-related supplies. You can use a TSA Notification Card or verbally inform them. Remove any devices or medications from your bag for separate screening.

5. Enlist Help From Others

Educate your travel companions about your condition and the symptoms of low or high blood sugar. Ask them to help you stay healthy during the trip.

When You Arrive

Once you arrive at your destination, follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition:

1. Store Your Medications Correctly

Store diabetes management supplies properly. Avoid leaving them in hot cars or direct sunlight. Use a cooler with a gel pack if you'll be outside in the heat. Consider using travel packs designed to maintain the right temperature for insulin and medications.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drink water hourly, especially on planes, while driving, or around a campfire. Staying hydrated is crucial for people with diabetes.

3. Enjoy New Foods in Moderation

Try new cuisines in moderation. Choose balanced meals with reasonable portions. Research the typical foods of your destination to estimate carb content and adjust your insulin needs accordingly.

4. Stay Safe in the Heat

Take extra precautions in warm weather. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and choose cooler times for physical activities. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and protect your skin from sunburn.

5. Carry a Mini Diabetes Emergency Kit

Bring a mini emergency kit with fast-acting carbs, a backup meter, a glucagon pen, and a copy of your doctor’s letter. These items are essential in case of emergencies.

6. Wear Comfortable Footwear

Wear shoes that fit well and protect your feet. Bring an extra pair to rotate between and reduce the risk of blisters. Check your feet regularly for any signs of issues.

7. Know How to Handle a Medical Emergency

Know the symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, and share them with your travel companions. Call your doctor if you experience a severe episode or if your insulin pump malfunctions. Seek emergency help if you have symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis.

The Takeaway

Traveling with diabetes requires extra steps to stay healthy and prevent complications. Plan ahead by getting clearance from your doctor, packing extra supplies, and staying hydrated. During your trip, move often, eat balanced meals, and wear comfortable footwear. Minimize the challenges of different time zones by carrying snacks, checking your blood glucose regularly, and adjusting your medication schedule as needed. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your vacation while managing your diabetes effectively.