Traveling with Diabetes

It is possible to travel anywhere with type 1 or 2 diabetes but one needs to plan ahead. The key points to remember include:

  • Carry essential supplies and insulin or diabetes medication (if you normally take either of these) on you at all times
  • Have several copies of a medical letter stating you have diabetes and are carrying syringes or pen needles (or blood testing equipment) on you to give to Customs agents. Don't give away the original of this letter
  • Don't store insulin in the baggage compartment of planes because it will freeze
  • Get specialist help before you leave, on adjusting insulin doses (or tablets) and food through time zones
  • If you use an insulin pump, follow the manufacturer's guidelines for flying
  • Don't expose your insulin to extremes of temperature. If necessary, carry it in an insulated bag or small wide-mouthed thermos flask
  • Always obtain medical insurance when travelling.
  • Check your blood glucose frequently while travelling.
  • Test your blood glucose frequently. Your whole routine of activity and food is likely to be very different. The type of food you eat may also change
  • Keep a daily record of insulin doses and test results (to help you identify any trends, and to help any medical advisors that you may need to see)
  • If you are having problems with your blood glucose levels, follow the guidelines you worked out with your team before you went away and/or contact a hospital or diabetes doctor in the area for advice
  • If you do visit a hospital take along as much supporting documentation as you can (your medications, test results, travel/medical insurance forms, etc)
  • Some insulins have different names and are supplied in different strengths in other countries. If you have to use insulin from another country make sure it is either the same strength as you are used to or a diabetes specialist has helped you make the necessary dose adjustments to take a different strength insulin
  • Avoid using local needles if not sterile
  • It's smart to watch what you eat and drink when travelling. Avoid tap water overseas (including ice cubes made from tap water). Ask for a list of ingredients for unfamiliar foods. Some foods may upset your stomach and this may make your blood glucose management more difficult.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and never go barefoot. Check your feet every day. Look for blisters, cuts, redness, swelling, and scratches. Get medical care at the first sign of infection or inflammation on your feet.

You may consider informing your travel agent that you have diabetes and explain some of the particular needs that travelling with diabetes entails. That way together, you can plan a suitable itinerary that will be more likely to meet your needs.