When preparing for vacation, you can choose to relax and rest, or you can go sightseeing and travel. However, if you have diabetes, it means that you need to take some extra precautions.
Tell your doctor for advice
Deena Adimoolam, MD, assistant professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, said, “I usually advise patients on what to pack, how to store medications, and how to prepare for any emergencies related to high or low blood sugar.”
She also asks patients about their destination and the length of their trip, and then helps them prepare.
Make a list and check it twice
Make a detailed packing list. Dina recommends having 2 times the dose of medication needed in case you are stranded at your travel destination and leave for longer than expected. Always keep your medications in the same medication containers you normally use, so you can make sure everything is clearly labeled and also carry your medication prescriptions with you.
If you use insulin, an insulin pen and needle or vial and syringe are necessary items to carry. A cooled bag may also be needed to keep insulin out of the heat. Most insulins are less effective above 30°C. Therefore, check with your doctor about which insulin to choose.
You will also need to bring a blood glucose monitor, a prick needle, test strips, and snacks and hard candy in case your blood glucose levels get too low. All of these supplies must be easily accessible at all times, so keep them in your handbag if you are on a flight.
A quality pair of shoes, whether it’s on the sidewalk or a walk on the beach – are a necessity to protect your feet.
Check blood sugar levels frequently
A vacation usually means a lot of physical activity, such as hiking or fast-paced sightseeing, as well as consuming foods that you don’t normally enjoy. So it’s especially important to keep an eye on blood sugar levels.
Do I need to change my time zone? This means eating at a different time of day, and possibly adjusting your routine if you are used to using insulin in the morning or at bedtime. Be sure to consult your doctor carefully before leaving.
Know how to get help
Dina said to get information about insurance coverage from your health insurance company, especially if you’re traveling out of the country.
If you need to travel to a country where a foreign language is spoken, learn simple expressions like “I need help” or “Where is the hospital?” Be sure to bring the phone number of your consulate, Dina said.
Ask your doctor these questions
- Am I in good enough shape to travel?
- How will changes in temperature or barometric pressure affect my medications?
- Should I have a glucagon first aid kit?
- What medications should I pack in addition to those used to treat diabetes?
- Do I need to get vaccinated?
- Do I need to get vaccinations?
- Can you give me a list of what medications and supplies I need to bring?