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Traveling with diabetes requires careful planning and foresight to ensure that you can manage your condition effectively while still enjoying your trip. Whether you’re heading to a new destination or visiting familiar places, taking some simple steps can help you stay on top of your health. Here are 11 expert-backed tips to make traveling with diabetes easier and stress-free.
Get a Doctor’s Letter for Travel
Before you head to the airport or embark on a long journey, it’s a good idea to get a letter from your doctor or healthcare provider. This letter should state that you need to carry diabetes supplies, including insulin and syringes. It can be incredibly helpful when passing through airport security, where needles and syringes sometimes raise concerns. Having the letter ready can make the security process smoother.
Label Your Medications
Ensure that all your diabetes medications, devices (like glucose meters, test strips, lancets), and insulin pens are clearly labeled with a prescription. The name on the label should match the name on your passport, which can help avoid confusion or delays at security or during customs. It also makes it easier to manage and replace supplies if needed during your trip.
Research Local Medical Facilities
Before you leave, research the area you’ll be visiting and know the location of nearby hospitals or medical clinics. This knowledge can be vital in an emergency situation. It’s also a good idea to learn key phrases in the local language, such as “I have diabetes,” so that you can communicate more effectively if necessary. Having medical awareness jewelry, such as a bracelet, is also a good idea.
Pack Extra Snacks and Glucose Tablets
Packing extra snacks and glucose tablets is essential when traveling with diabetes. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can happen unexpectedly, so it’s always a good idea to have quick-access snacks, such as glucose tablets, dried fruit, or crackers. These can be lifesavers when you’re in unfamiliar territory or if a meal is delayed.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Comfortable shoes are key to preventing foot injuries while traveling. For those with diabetes, it’s particularly important to wear shoes that are well-fitted and comfortable to avoid blisters and other issues. It’s a good idea to break in new shoes before your trip to prevent discomfort. Always avoid walking barefoot, especially on beaches, to avoid injury from debris.
Keep Insulin in Your Carry On
If you use insulin, always pack it in your carry-on bag rather than your checked luggage. This is not only to avoid temperature fluctuations in the cargo hold, but also in case your checked bag is delayed or lost. Insulin should ideally be kept at room temperature, so keep it with you to ensure it stays effective. Bring a hard-sided cooler and cold packs if you’re traveling to hot climates.
Declare Your Supplies at Security
At airport security, be sure to declare that you’re carrying insulin and other medical supplies. You may be asked to undergo additional screening, but this is normal. Make sure to allow extra time at the airport, as security may require you to go through additional checks. The key is to stay calm and be prepared with your doctor’s letter if needed.
Prepare for Time Zone Changes
Traveling across time zones can affect your diabetes management, especially regarding insulin and meal timing. If you’re traveling east (losing time), you may need to reduce your insulin dosage to avoid hypoglycemia. Conversely, if you’re traveling west (gaining time), you might need more insulin and food to balance the longer day. It’s important to speak with your doctor before your trip to develop a plan based on your specific needs.
Stay on Top of Blood Sugar Levels
Whether you’re flying, driving, or cruising, it’s important to monitor your blood glucose levels regularly. Always test your blood glucose every four hours, and adjust your insulin or snack intake as needed. This routine will help you stay in control, even if you’re busy exploring new destinations. Packing extra testing supplies is crucial so you’re never caught off guard.
Carry Emergency Medical Kits
When hiking or exploring outdoor areas, it’s important to carry a first aid kit that includes glucose tablets, insulin, and a glucagon emergency kit if you use insulin. Make sure that someone with you knows how to use the glucagon kit in case of an emergency. You should also tell a trusted person not traveling with you about your whereabouts and expected return time in case of an emergency.
Stay Active While Traveling
Whether you’re on a cruise, a road trip, or sightseeing in a new city, staying active helps manage blood glucose levels. Regular exercise, such as walking or light hiking, can help regulate your sugar levels, particularly if you’re eating more than usual during your trip. On a cruise, consider adding daily walks or other activities to your schedule to balance out the extra calories consumed during meals.