Travelling can be one of life's greatest pleasures, but when you have diabetes, you need to plan ahead to keep your health in check while away from your usual routine. Whether you're globetrotting or just going for a short holiday, managing your diabetes shouldn't stop you from enjoying your adventures to the fullest.
Here’s what you can do to make travelling with diabetes as straightforward as possible.
Preparation is key
Before embarking on your next adventure, it’s important to have a plan that works around you and your trip.
1. Talk to your doctor
Let your healthcare professional know about your travel plans, especially if you're changing time zones which might affect your medication schedule. They can offer you a check-up and make sure you're fit to travel and how best to stick to your routine.
2. Find the right travel insurance
Travel insurance is a must-have, but not all policies offer cover for pre-existing medical conditions, including diabetes. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, finding diabetes travel insurance that’s right for your needs can give you peace of mind. Be sure to look for policies with travel insurance for type 1 diabetes or type 2 clearly outlined, so you know you know you won’t have to be out of pocket if you have a medical emergency.
Packing your diabetes kit
When you have diabetes, your packing list will include a few extra items to make sure you're prepared for any situation.
- Keep your medication in its original packaging, clearly labelled for easy identification. This will help avoid any delays at airports, ports or borders if your medication needs to be checked
- Get a letter from your doctor explaining your medical condition and what you need to manage it. You might be asked to show this when you check in, at the airport
- If you’re taking insulin to a warmer climate, a cooling pack could help keep your insulin cool and more effective while you’re travelling.
- Try and pack more medication than you need in case you experience delays or lose some doses. That way, you know you’ll have enough until you get home.
On the Go
Travel can be unpredictable. But by thinking ahead, you can handle any hiccup on the road. If you have plans to explore, here’s what you need to think about before setting out on your day.
- Keep a small supply of snacks on hand at all times in case of low blood sugar
- Stay hydrated, especially during flights
- Move around regularly to promote blood circulation
- Wear a medical ID that details your condition – it can be a lifesaver in an emergency
At your destination
Wherever you land, taking your medication at the right time, in the right way is important. To keep your trip smooth sailing, here are some tips to help you keep on top of your routine when you arrive.
- Plan your meals carefully, remembering that time zones will change meal times in your destination
- If you’re staying in a hotel, ask about fridges and microwaves to store and heat up insulin and any food items you might need
- Check the local pharmacies for availability of insulin or other medication in case of emergency
- Keep all medication and supplies with you at all times during travel - you never know when you’ll need it
Navigating the world with diabetes certainly comes with its share of challenges, but it shouldn't hold you back from creating memorable experiences. With proper planning, the right holiday insurance for diabetes, and a sense of adventure, you're ready to tackle travel head-on.
To learn more about taking medication abroad and how to prepare, check out our blog.
