Travelers with diabetes need to take extra precautions and plan their trip well in advance for a safe holiday. Learn about what you need to know when you are traveling with diabetes for a healthy and hassle-free trip.
Before you leave
- Visit your doctor: Take a blood test to know your blood sugar levels and discuss your travel plans with your doctor. In case you need to take an immunization, plan well in advance at least a month before your travel date as some shots may affect blood sugar levels.
- Carry your prescription: Carry your doctor’s letter that says you have diabetes and a prescription with details of your medication along with the dosage mentioned.
- Label all your medications: Label your medications to avoid hassles at airport security.
- Get travel insurance: Get travel insurance that covers for acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
- Know your destination: Be informed about the local medical facilities available at your destination in advance.
- Carry a medical id: Carry a medical identification card that indicates you have diabetes and shows an emergency contact number.
- Load on medical supplies: Stash at least twice as many medical supplies in carry-on baggage. You really don’t want to run out of stock in case of a trip delay.
During the Journey
- Always carry some food to deal with eating uncertainties during your travel.
- Whenever possible request a diabetic-friendly meal low in sugar, cholesterol, sodium, and fat.
- Carry some form of instant glucose like sugar candies or glucose tablets in case of hypoglycemia.
- Move around and stretch regularly to improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
Things to keep in mind
- Consider time zones and adjust your clock to your country’s time while traveling to help you stay aware of your biological clock for medication or insulin.
- Always plan your activities in order to adjust to your insulin and meals.
- Don’t hesitate to investigate your food whenever you eat out.
- Check your blood sugar levels before and after your meals to check how new food is affecting you.
- Never walk barefoot. Wear comfortable shoes and monitor your feet regularly for injuries like blisters, cuts, swelling, etc.
- Keep a watch on temperature swings. Do not store insulin at freezing temperature or exposure to direct sunlight.
Gadgets to Carry
- Glucometer
- Urine ketone testing strips
Hope you have a safe journey!