How To Travel With Diabetes

Travelling when you have diabetes may lead to a set of distinctive challenges. From tracking blood glucose levels to managing exercise and dietary routines, daily activities might become more complex when away from the comforts of home.

Nevertheless, with a bit of thoughtful preparation before your travel, you may transform it into a relaxing and pleasant experience.1 Get ready to embark on an exciting diabetes-friendly journey with our comprehensive checklist to travel with diabetes.

Plan Ahead: Essential Steps Before You Travel

• Before you book your tickets, make sure to consult your doctor and have your glucose levels checked. Make any modifications as advised by the doctor.
• Ensure that your travel insurance includes coverage for health issues associated with diabetes. Make a call with the insurance agent to know all details about your insurance plan, including how to claim it if necessary while travelling.
• Remember to bring a sufficient quantity of medication and syringes, packing at least double the amount required. Check the expiration dates of all your medicines and pack them safely. Keep your medicine sets segregated in separate luggage bags, in case of any luggage getting misplaced while travelling. Additionally, do not overlook the importance of carrying extra test strips and batteries for your glucose monitor.
• Obtain a medical ID bracelet that indicates your diabetes as well as any other existing medical conditions you may have.
• You can also ask your doctor to provide you with a letter stating any allergies you may have and the medicines and equipment you need for your diabetes treatment, such as syringes or insulin. Always carry a prescription for your medicines or insulin.
• Before departing, verify with a pharmacist at your travel destination whether your medications may be prescribed there, as your doctor might not have the authority to do so across state or international borders.

On the Move: Tips and Tricks for Smooth Traveling

By Car

• Take regular breaks during your journey to stretch your legs and, thus, reduce the risk of developing blood clots.
• If you plan to drive, remember to prepare a cooler filled with nutritious foods and an ample supply of water for hydration.
• Avoid storing insulin or diabetes medication in direct sunlight or a hot car; keep them in a cooler instead.
• Do not place insulin directly in a gel pack or on ice.
• Be aware that heat may potentially damage your blood sugar monitor, insulin pump, and other diabetes equipment. Therefore, avoid leaving these objects in hot vehicles, in the sun, or on the beach.
• Remember to safeguard supplies like test strips from excessive heat as well.

By Flight

• Make sure to arrive at the airport with a sufficient time buffer of 2-3 hours before your scheduled flight.
• Do not forget to carry travel packs to keep your insulin cool and protected from damage.
• Make sure you place and confirm a special order for your food requirements - for a low-sugar, low-fat, and low-cholesterol meal at least 48 hours before your travel.
• Remember to carry food with a good shelf-life with you in case your meal is delayed or if there is any issue with your order.
• Retain the labels on all medications and supplies as they may be required during the security-check process in air travel.
• Place medications in a separate clear and sealable bag for convenient screening during air travel. Maintain separate sealed bags in your hand as well as check-in luggage.
• Ensure that bags containing medications in your carry-on luggage are easily accessible and separated from other belongings.
• Carry a fast-acting source of glucose to address low blood sugar episodes and pack portable snacks like nutrition bars for added convenience.
• To ensure that you take your medicines on time when travelling across time zones, set a reminder or alarm on your phone.

Arrival Adventures: Making the Most of Your Travel

• Initially, your blood sugar levels may deviate from your target range when travelling, but your body should adapt within a few days.
• It is important to frequently monitor your blood sugar and follow your doctor's instructions for managing high or low levels.
• It may be necessary to adjust your insulin dosage based on factors such as temperature and various activities. To determine the appropriate changes needed in such cases, consult with your doctor.
• Ensure that your snacks and water bottles are easily accessible and within reach.
• Avoid engaging in intense physical activity when it is hot outside. Protect yourself from sunburn and refrain from going barefoot, even when at the beach.
• When venturing outdoors, remember to pack disposable wipes for sanitising your hands before checking your blood sugar levels.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any signs of dizziness, infection or swelling of any kind.

Conclusion

Embrace the highs and lows that travel brings, even with diabetes in tow. By staying prepared, mindful, and proactive, you may navigate any challenges with ease. 

So, pack your bags, explore new horizons, and create unforgettable memories on your journey, because, with the right mindset and a little extra planning, travel with diabetes might be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling experience for everyone. Bon voyage!