Travel Tips for Diabetes Care
Just because you have decided to take a vacation doesn't mean your diabetes has also. It can be daunting at first to think about caring for your diabetes while you are on vacation, away from the comforts of home and out of your regular routine. It doesn't have to be. With planning, you can give yourself a safe and relaxing get away.
Here are some tips and reminders to keep in mind while you travel. Whether you are taking a day trip or traveling far away for a few weeks, these tips will keep you healthy, safe, and ensure you're feeling your best while you are away.
Tips to consider before and during your trip:
- Bring enough medication: Pack your diabetes supplies first. For longer trips, pack double the amount of supplies that you think you'll need in case of travel delays. Don't forget to bring your medications; blood glucose monitoring supplies; syringes; and glucose gel, tablets, or another carbohydrate.
- How to pack your medications and supplies:
- If you're flying - Take all of your diabetes medications and supplies in your carry-on. Separate these items from your other belongings before screening begins and be sure to let the baggage screeners know that you have these items.
- If you're taking a road trip - Keep insulin out of the heat. It should not be stored in direct sunlight or in a hot car. Put it in a cooler instead, but don’t place it directly on ice or on a gel pack as it may get damaged.
- Bring snacks and plenty of water with you: If you are taking a long road trip, it's always a good idea to pack a cooler with plenty of water and some healthy snacks to stay hydrated and prevent low blood sugar. Some good choices include fruit, crackers and peanut butter or cheese, nuts, or seeds. Some of these foods can be high in calories, so measure out small portions (1/4 cup) in advance.
- Pack appropriate footwear: Be sure to bring protective footwear for all the activities you may do on your trip like going to the beach, walking on paved roadways, hiking on trails, etc. Avoid walking barefoot and check your feet for any blisters, cuts, redness, or swelling.
- Bring important documents and information with you: Be sure to bring these documents with you:
- License or state issued identification card
- Passport (if needed/traveling internationally)
- Health insurance card
- Medical identification that says you have diabetes (i.e. medical bracelet or card)
- A list of medications and dosages (this may be on paper or saved on your cell phone)
- Health care provider's name and contact information (this may also be on paper or stored in your cell phone)
- Be sure to take breaks: Whether you are driving, flying, or traveling by other means, make sure you either stop or get up (when allowed in flight) to walk around throughout the trip every hour or two. This will help you reduce your risk for blood clots.
Now that you are armed with more information, hopefully you are a little more prepared for your vacation plans and once you're packed and ready to go, you can finally relax a bit like vacation is intended for! Bon boyage!
*Many of these helpful travel tips for diabetes care were provided by the CDC. More helpful tips and links can be found on their website here.
