Tips for Traveling with Type One Diabetes
Traveling can be stressful and trying to get through the airport with insulin and all your medical supplies is an added layer. That’s why you’ll need to make sure you research your destination, pack extra supplies, and have a plan for getting through the airport. Below we have our top tips for everything you need to know about traveling with type 1 diabetes.
Know Your Destination
As you probably know, there are tons of factors that can affect your blood sugar outside of what you’re eating. This is why it is important to know your destination’s climate and elevation, as well as the kind of activities you’ll be doing while you’re there.
For example, if you’re traveling somewhere very warm, you’ll want to consider packing some reusable ice packs to keep your insulin cool. If you’re planning to do a lot of exercise at your destination, you’ll want to talk with your doctor about a strategy for managing blood sugar during those times.
Another thing to be aware of is the time zone. If you’re traveling somewhere located in a different time zone, you’ll want to change the time on your pump to match the destination’s time when you arrive.
If you are traveling internationally, we recommend downloading Google Translate while you have Wi-Fi and then downloading the language that they speak in that country. That way if you need to tell someone that you are insulin-dependent or have diabetes, you can quickly pull up the app.
Pack Extra Supplies
Along with all the supplies you’d normally pack for your trip, it’s a good idea to pack extra (2-3+ days worth) just in case. Below we have a list of all your packing essentials:
Pump supplies
Syringes/needles (as a backup for your pump or extras if you do multiple daily injections)
Continuous glucose monitor supplies
Glucose meter and test strips
Batteries for your pump or your pump charger
Hypoglycemic snacks (we recommend fruit snacks!)
Insulin (do not pack in your checked bag as it could freeze or in case of lost luggage)
Doctor’s note stating you are insulin-dependent diabetic (optional)
Reusable ice packs (if you’re traveling somewhere warm)
Loaner pump - if you’re traveling internationally, many pump providers will send you a loaner pump to take with you in case yours fails
Airport Tips
After you have everything packed you’ll need to get through airport security. Below we have our top tips for getting through TSA without too much stress.
Put your insulin in a clear plastic bag that is easily accessible in your carry-on bag. When you get to security, hand your insulin to the agent and tell them it cannot go through the x-ray. They will take it to the other side to be tested and you’ll get it after you go through the body scanner.
Check with your pump manufacturer to see if the device can go through the body scanner. If you’d prefer to have a pat-down, tell the agent that you are “opting out” and you will stand off to the side for another agent to get you. Do not send any devices through the x-ray machine.
Make sure you have most of your supplies with you in your carry-on bag in case of lost luggage.
You are allowed to bring emergency liquids such as juice boxes even if they are more than 3 ounces.
Enjoy Yourself
With new foods, a new routine, and different activities, your blood sugar might be all over the place–and that’s okay! Do your best to carb count and account for other factors but don’t forget to enjoy yourself on vacation.
Comment and tell us any tips you have for traveling with diabetes.
