Traveling Tips for Diabetics

Diabetes doesn’t have to keep you grounded. You can follow your passion anywhere as long as you bring the right supplies and plan ahead.

Here are some things to think about before you take insulin with you on your next vacation.

Getting ready

• If you’re traveling to a different time zone, talk to your healthcare provider about when you should take your insulin shots
• Get written prescriptions for your insulin and diabetes pills in case you need to get more while you’re away
• If you’re traveling to another country, get a list of International Diabetes Federation groups at www.idf.org. They should be able to help you fill a prescription and find a healthcare provider in an emergency.
• If they speak a different language where you are going, learn how to say such phrases as,"I have diabetes" and "sugar or orange juice, please"

Packing

• You are permitted to carry on your liquid and gel prescription medications even if they are in containers greater than 3.4 ounces
• Be sure that your medications are labeled so they are identifiable
• Pack at least twice as much medicine and blood-testing supplies as you think you’ll need. Pack at least half in your carry-on bag and keep it with you
• Remember to pack your oral medications, blood testing supplies, and a blood glucose meter—plus extra batteries for the glucose meter
• If you’re spending time in the sun, take a travel pack to keep your insulin cool
• Bring some snacks—crackers and cheese, a juice box, and some hard sugar candy—in case you need to raise your blood sugar fast

Airport Screening

• Before going through security at the airport, tell the screener that you have diabetes and you’re carrying supplies with you
• You may request a visual screening of your insulin materials, rather than putting them through the X-ray. You may also request a visual body screening if you have an insulin pump
• The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends (but does not require) that you bring supporting documentation for your medication needs. For details, visit www.tsa.gov
• The name on your prescription medications should match the name on your boarding pass. If they do not match, be prepared to explain why to the security officers

Flying

• When you make your reservation, you can ask for a special meal low in sugar, fat, and cholesterol
• Keep snacks handy in your carry-on bag in case the food tray doesn't come
• Check your blood sugar level as soon as you land because jet lag can make it hard to tell if your level is very high or very low

The TSA provides more information about traveling with diabetes.

Once you arrive

• Check your blood sugar often, especially if you’re more active or eating more than usual
• Take snacks with you everywhere. You can’t assume there will be food wherever you go.
• Be alert to changes in the appearance of your insulin or changes in your insulin needs. If needed, contact your doctor for advice about this