Patients should plan their diabetes treatment well in advance of their trip and carry medical evidence of diabetes and medications with them.
Whether you are traveling for work or play, being well prepared before you leave will make the trip go more smoothly.
For example, plan where you’re going to stay, check the weather at your destination, and plan ahead for your diabetes treatment so you can take control of your blood sugar levels.
Before you go
Tell your doctor about your travel plans and how to adjust your insulin dose if you’re crossing time zones.
Do you need a special diet? Talk to the airline, hotel, or cruise ship staff.
If you are going to another country, check to see if you need vaccinations before you leave. Complete your vaccinations 3-4 weeks prior to departure. Some vaccinations can affect blood sugar levels, so consult your doctor.
Not only should you learn to say “hello” and “thank you,” but you should also learn some local phrases related to diabetes in case you need them, such as “I have diabetes” and “I need sugar.”
You can also learn about the health care centers in your travel destination, and if you can manage your diabetes well, you don’t need to go.
Things you should have in your carry-on backpack
- Medical proof of having diabetes.
- Paper or card with your doctor’s name and phone number on it.
- A list of all your medications.
- Your prescription medications, syringes, inhalers, and glucose testing supplies. Keep them in your carry-on luggage so you don’t lose them, and keep your medications at the right temperature.
- Prepare enough medications and diabetes supplies for at least 1 week.
- Foods for a quick fix for low blood sugar, such as candy or juice.
Get through airport security easily
Let security know you have diabetes and are carrying medical (injectable) supplies. You can bring medications on board, but they must have a prescription mark and manufacturer’s trademark.
If the medication has insulin, you can bring a syringe.
Bringing an insulin pump requires informing security that they will check it, but remind security not to shake the medication around.
If in doubt, check the relevant department’s website for an updated list of allowed carry-on items.
Carrying insulin when traveling
If you need to inject insulin during the flight, follow the normal procedure. However, the amount of air in the insulin vial should only be half the usual amount because the air pressure on the plane is different from the air pressure on the ground.
If you are using inhaled insulin on an airplane, there are no changes that need to be made.
Store insulin vials and unopened inhalation insulin packs at 0-27°C. Do not freeze insulin or leave it in direct sunlight. Inhaled insulin packs can be stored at room temperature for up to 10 days after opening.
Protect your feet
Make your feet feel comfortable. Bringing your favorite walking shoes and socks can prevent minor foot injuries.
Bring at least two pairs of shoes so you can change them often and also to avoid blisters and pressure points.
No matter how tempting it is, you should never go barefoot, even when you are poolside, on the shore, or swimming.
Avoid shoes that show your toes, such as sandals or flip-flops. Bare toes are prone to injury and more likely to become infected.
Follow a foot care routine when you’re out and about. For example, wash your feet, dry your toes, moisturize them, and watch for problems like cuts or sores.
If any problems arise, treat them immediately.