Traveling with Diabetes

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 Just because you are going on a vacation, doesn’t mean your Diabetes management is too.


As you plan for your trip; booking flights and hotels, where you will visit, you have to also plan your Diabetes management while you are there so that nothing stops you from having fun. 


Before You Travel:


  • Visit your doctor for a check-up and get a prescription for enough medical supplies for your trip

  • Get a medical ID card or bracelet that states that you live with Type 1 Diabetes

  • Get a medical letter written and signed by your doctor that proves that you live with Type 1 Diabetes.

  • Buy travel insurance in case you need medical care


While Packing:


  • Do not pack your medical supplies in your checking luggage. This is because insulin might get cold, your medical supplies can be damaged, and your luggage can be lost. Carry a smaller bag to have at your seat with your insulin, blood glucose monitor, and your other supplies.

  • Carry twice the supplies you think you will need. That is insulin, blood test trips, syringes, and sensors if you use Dexcom.

  • Make sure to carry enough snacks, and glucose tablets in your carry-on bag to treat low blood sugar.


At the Airport & On The Plane


Have your medical ID card or bracelet, and your medical letter close. 

Some of the medical supplies like an insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor are damaged by X-rays. Make sure your supplies are hand inspected at the airport.


Make sure at least one flight attendant is aware that you live with Type 1 Diabetes so they will understand that you might request a cup of juice or any other Diabetes emergency-related service. 


If you are crossing time zones, make sure to have an alarm on your phone for your insulin injections. Make sure your clock is in your home time zone to help you keep track of your injections and meals. You can also keep a hand watch that is in the same time zone as home.


It is important to keep in mind that when you are traveling in the East, the day becomes short meaning you might need less insulin, and when you are traveling in the West, the day is long and you might need to inject your insulin more. Keep in mind that checking your blood sugar while traveling is as important as when you are home.


When You are There


Due to the changing environment, your blood sugar might be out of target range; either becoming very high or very low, but your body should adjust in a few days. Jet lag can also make it difficult to tell if your blood sugar is very low or very high. Another thing to keep in mind is that High temperatures might change how the body uses insulin. If you are traveling in places with high temperatures, check your blood sugar more often, adjust your insulin and stay hydrated, and eat healthily!


Managing Diabetes is challenging but it does not mean that it is impossible. It shouldn’t be stopping you from traveling and seeing the world. The key is to plan, be prepared, go have fun and make memories. 


Don’t forget to take pictures! 

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