Gather together the information and supplies you need to travel with diabetes like a pro.
1. Schedule a Visit With Your Provider
Before traveling, if you aren’t up-to-date with your health exams, schedule a visit with your doctor (particularly if you are traveling for a long time or a long distance from home). “You want to make sure your diabetes is under reasonable control before going on a trip,” says Steven Nagelberg, MD, an endocrinologist with Jefferson Health in Philadelphia. He says this can be done at a regular visit — even if your appointment is six months before your trip.
If there are questions about your condition or supplies (when going through airport security, for example), this letter can provide a helpful explanation. Collins adds that a letter also helps people understand your needs should you require medical help.
2. Get to Know TSA Rules
If you’re flying, read up on what to expect at security checkpoints. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows insulin pumps, glucose monitors, and diabetes medications in carry-on and checked bags on planes, but there are special instructions you must follow when going through TSA checkpoints.
- Bring medications in their original prescription bottles; if you use a pill organizer, bring the prescription labels. (If possible, bring the prescription label for medical devices too.) These labels aren’t required by TSA, but they can make screening easier.
- Pack medications in a clear, sealable bag that you can easily access, as you’ll need to separate the clear bag from your other baggage during security screening.
- Bring medical identification and contact information for your physician.
3. Pack Your Supplies Appropriately
Luggage — and the insulin, pumps, batteries, or meters it contains — can be lost, delayed, or damaged, putting you at real risk, says Eichorst. “Overpack and split supplies to build your safety net,” she says.
To ensure that you have the right amount, pack twice what you’ll need, advises Danica Collins, a San Diego–based health coach who has type 1 diabetes. This should include insulin, glucose tablets, snacks, testing supplies, medicines, and more.
Instead, pack these medications and supplies in your carry-on. In addition, if you wear a continuous glucose monitor, Eichorst advises bringing a spare in case the one you’re wearing gets damaged.
4. Prep Snacks and Treats
While you might be able to find the things you want at stores or shops, plan for the possibility that your stops won’t have what you need.
“Airports might stock sugar-free pretzels; gas stations run out; campsites have zero,” says Collins. “Bring double your gummies, glucose tabs, and juice boxes — plus a handful of your favorite grab-and-go snacks, so you can prevent lows and actually enjoy the journey.”
“Have carb snacks to treat hypoglycemia,” adds Eichorst, “and protein snacks to prevent hypoglycemia.”
5. Prepare for New Time Zones
Changing time zones can throw off your routine, meal times, and sleep schedule. “Probably the most challenging thing of all in travel is time zone changes,” says Dr. Nagelberg. To combat these issues, make a plan in advance, and ask your doctor if you should change your insulin doses.
For example, for patients who take a single shot of basal insulin, Nagelberg might suggest splitting up the dose and taking half every 12 hours, starting a few days before the trip. “That will make the transition easier,” he says.
The reason why? If a change in time zones throws off your schedule, then you might be six hours off your schedule, for instance, versus 18 hours from when you needed the dose.
You should always ask your diabetes provider for their recommendations about adjusting your insulin dose and the timing of your pump, based on your specific health and travel situation. This is something you can do at your pretravel doctor’s appointment.
6. Create a Backup Plan at Your Destination
Plan your care resources in advance so you don’t have to scurry or panic once you arrive, if you need additional supplies or medications. “From remote campsites to cross-country highways, finding a pharmacy or clinic on short notice isn’t guaranteed,” Collins explains.
To plan, research pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics near your accommodations and save them in your phone. Also, keep in mind that different countries may have different brands of medicine, so plan backups and alternatives if needed.
7. Prepare for Potential Emergencies
“Save local emergency numbers and your doctor’s contact,” Collins advises. “Learn ‘I have diabetes’ in the local language or keep it in a translation app.”
8. Wear a Medical ID
Nagelberg especially recommends wearing a medical ID if you are traveling alone or have type 1 diabetes, as the risk of hypoglycemia is higher then than with type 2 diabetes.
