Diabetes and Traveling

taking a trip soon?

Traveling is all about exploring new places, making memories, and trying new things. But if you are managing diabetes, it is important to plan ahead so you can have a worry-free trip. Here are some simple tips to help you enjoy your journey while keeping your diabetes in check.

Pack your essentials

Before you take off, double-check that you have packed all your diabetes must-haves in your carry-on luggage. Insulin, testing supplies, medications, and snacks are your trusty companions. It is always better to be over-prepared.

photo 1 and caption: photo of small black luggage and title "Carry On"

photo 1: stack of clothes with caption "clothes"
photo 2" back of toiletries with caption "toiletries"
photo 3: small black bag with caption "extra diabetes supplies bag"
photo 4: white shoes with caption "shoes"

photo 1: pack of snack and a juice container with caption "snacks":
photo 2: brown wallet next to car keys with caption "keys and wallet"
photo 3: diabetes technology with caption "backup plan technology"
photo 4: black insulin pump next to a pair of batteries with caption "insulin pump charger and extra batteries"
photo 5: a copy of a prescription pad with caption "diabetes type and supplies prescription
photo 6: blue insulin cooling case unzipped with caption "insulin cooling case"
photo 7: silver reusable water bottle with black lid with caption "reusable water bottle"
photo 8: glucagon kit, glucose tablets and glucose gel all grouped together with caption "glucose tablets, gel, and glucagon"
photo 9: various diabetes supplies with caption "supplies for duration of flight travel"

photo 1: blue backpack open with caption "personal bag"

Long journeys can impact your eating routine, so stash some healthy snacks in your bag. Nuts, seeds, whole-grain crackers, and fruit can save the day when hunger strikes while on the road.

Traveling can dehydrate you, so drink plenty of water. If you are flying, bring an empty water bottle to fill up after you go through security. Your body will thank you!

Plan Meals Ahead

Research restaurants or grocery store options at your destination. Knowing where you can find balanced meals can save you from impulsive choices or situations where you have no choice.

If you are changing time zones, adjust your medication schedule accordingly. Your healthcare provider can help you figure out the best way to do this.

Exploring new places often means walking a lot. Comfortable shoes can keep your feet happy and prevent any unexpected blisters or sores. Same goes for socks!

Long flights or car rides might make you feel a bit stiff. Make it a habit to stretch or walk around every couple of hours to keep your blood flowing.

If you are traveling with friends or family, let them know about your diabetes and what to do in case of an emergency. It is always good to have a backup plan.

Carry a card with your emergency contact details, doctor’s name, and important medical information. You may also want to include your insulin pump settings in case of a pump malfunction or to program a back-up travel pump. This small piece of paper can make a big difference. Pro Tip: Laminate it or keep a picture of it on your phone!

Contact your device manufacturer to see if they have a loaner program in case your device malfunctions during travel. Pack twice as much diabetes supplies and insulin that you would typically need for the same amount of time at home.

In case of a device malfunction, have prescriptions on hand for both rapid and long-acting insulin. Get written instructions from your doctor on how to take insulin injections if you need to switch from a pump to injections.

Traveling can be stressful, but stress is not good for diabetes. Practice deep breathing, meditation, or even light yoga to keep calm and collected.

If your destination is sun-soaked, protect your skin with sunscreen and a hat. And do not forget to keep your insulin and supplies out of direct sunlight or extreme temperatures (greater than 86F). A cooler can help with that.

Trying local delicacies is part of the fun but be mindful of portion sizes, sugary treats, and alcoholic beverages. A little indulgence is OK, just remember to balance it out.

If you are traveling to a place where your native language is not widely spoken, learn a few basic phrases to explain your diabetes needs. Audio translator smartphone apps can help here too. 

Be sure to familiarize yourself with TSA and FAA guidelines so you can board your flight without any problems. You may also want to check your device user guide for specific instructions on how to pass through airport security systems (X-rays or full-body scanners) with your device. Arriving early at the airport can help lower your stress by giving you time to go through security with your supplies. 

REMEMBER THIS…

You are not alone on this journey. Talk to your doctor or one of our Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (CDCES) before traveling to get personalized advice, and plan ahead. This way, you can focus on the adventure, not your diabetes. With a bit of preparation, your travel memories will be even sweeter – in a good way! Stay safe, have fun, and bon voyage!  This makes our blood sugar go up in the morning. It can be hard for people with diabetes who might not have enough insulin, or their bodies do not use it well, and their sugar goes even higher.

This site is for educational purposes only. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health.   