6 travel tips for those who have diabetes
Diabetes requires daily self-care, but that doesn’t mean you have to put your travel aspirations on the backburner. With careful planning there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy a fun, safe and most importantly hassle-free holiday domestically or abroad.
We’re going to take you through six tips for managing diabetes when you’re on holidays. Follow these tips and you certainly will enjoy your holiday.
1. Take necessary measures – Before you depart, estimate how much medication, test strips, insulin and syringes you will need or your trip and pack a little more to be safe. If you use an insulin pump be sure to take extra pump batteries and consumables just in case. One thing to be mindful of if you do find yourself in a situation where you have to purchase additional equipment/medication on the run is different measuring standards. For example, glucose meters in other countries may not necessarily submit readings in mmol/L, so readings in mg/dL will need to be converted.
2. Have “safety snacks” on hand – If you take insulin as part of your treatment, it’s generally not a bad idea to have some safety snacks on hand if for any reason a meal over the course of your trip is delayed or is unexpectedly unsuitable. Fast acting carbohydrates like glucose tablets or jelly beans are good, and even some biscuits or dried fruit can help you out in a blood sugar bind.
3. Acquire a small insulated bag before you go – Insulin and blood glucose test strips are only stable and accurate when they’re stored at room temperature under 30°C. But you may find yourself in far different conditions over the course of your trip. To avoid damages caused by unexpected fluctuations in temperatures, acquire a small insulated bag for storage. These insulated bags can generally be acquired from your State or Territory Diabetes Organisation.
4. Acquire diabetic travel socks – Diabetic foot problems can occur when the wrong type of socks are worn, so make you’re you acquire a decent set. Diabetic travel socks are designed to protect feet from external damage, minimise irritations and compression, and ultimately offer comfort.
5. Talk to your doctor – Consult your doctor before you embark, if possible at least two months before you’re due to head out. Discuss any medication/insulin adjustments and measures you’ll have to take to account for changes in temperature, diet and time zone.
You will also have to arrange papers to comply with airline security requirements. The papers are basically there outline to customs officials your medical conditions, the medications you take and the devices you use for your insulin and blood glucose testing such as insulin pens, syringes and needles or pump unit. If possible, make several copies of the letter just to be on the safe side.
6. Consider a travel concierge service - A travel concierge service is perfect for people with diabetes who would still love to travel, providing that extra little bit of assistance to make life easier. Companies like Medical Travel Companions offer a range of services, like providing access to a registered nurse for the course of your journey.
Are you someone who’s affected by diabetes? And how has the condition affected travel for you? Are there any extra measures you take?
Please share your story in the comments below.
Medical Travel Companions, are like the guardian angels for those who love to travel but require assistance or reassurance. Whether you – or someone you love – could benefit from a little assistance, Medical Travel Companions has a range of services that ensure no one has to miss out on doing the things they love.
For more information or to book your own travel concierge, click here.
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