Planning for Travel When You Have Diabetes

Taking care of your diabetes means developing a routine for things like meals, exercising, and taking medication. But sometimes this routine is disrupted when you travel. Your healthcare team can help you work out a plan to prepare for unexpected situations. The tips below can help.

When You Travel

During your trip, stick to your meal and exercise plans as much as you can.

• Wear an ID necklace or bracelet that says you have diabetes.

• Keep your diabetes kit with you, not in your luggage.

• Pack double the supplies you think you will need. Try not to put them all in the same bag.

• On train, bus, or airplane trips, take a walk in the aisle at least every 2 hours.

• Always carry a source of fast-acting sugar with you, such as glucose tablets or hard candies.

• Carry extra snacks, such as crackers, cheese, or fruit, in case meals are delayed.

• Drink plenty of water, especially when traveling by air.

• If you’re traveling across more than two time zones, ask your healthcare provider how to adjust your medication or insulin schedule.

Be Prepared

• Keep a diabetes kit. It should include your blood glucose meter, batteries, test strips, lancing device, fast-acting sugar, extra medication, syringes if needed, and copies of prescriptions. Use a case designed to carry diabetes supplies. Or use a makeup case, a belt pouch, or briefcase.

• Take your diabetes kit with you everywhere, just like you take your wallet and keys.

• Wear a bracelet or necklace that says you have diabetes.

• Store supplies at work as well as at home.

• Carry your healthcare provider’s phone number with you.