Tips for the Diabetic While Traveling

If you are a diabetic who is traveling across country or out of the country, then let your doctor know. Pack twice as much medication as you usually use. In addition, get a written prescription from your doctor, as well as your physician’s name and address.

It’s always important to wear a Medic Alert tag bracelet or necklace that states you are diabetic. Have two of these IDs in case you lose one. Document the medication you take for diabetes, and make two copies. Bring one copy with you and give the second copy to your travel agent. Understand your medical insurance policy. Find out if there is coverage when you go abroad.

Since diabetes affects the feet and skin, make sure to bring with you non-binding socks, bandages, and moisturizers. While traveling, take the time to measure your sugar level. If it drops too low, know where your glucose tablets are.

Pack all your medical supplies in a separate, small carry on bag. (You can use this same bag when sight seeing.) At the airport check points, let security know that you are carrying medical supplies for diabetes. Pack your insulin in containers that are 30 degrees to 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

When booking a hotel, make sure the room has a kitchen with a refrigerator. Find a hotel that has a 24-hour restaurant or convenience store in case your blood sugar goes low in the middle of the night/ Then you can buy some orange juice.

Especially if you are going abroad, carbohydrates can be a problem. Talk to a nutritionist before you leave so that he/she can outline a meal plan for your destination.