Traveling with diabetes can be quite worrisome. Travel restrictions becoming less stringent now, getting away is becoming popular. Whether you’re going away for a short or long break, managing blood sugars may be a challenge. When you’re out of your normal routine and the food available is different from what you’re used to at home in addition to gourmet foods at outside eateries. A lot of planning goes into travel and diabetes management on top of that and preparing for a trip can sometimes feel challenging. However,  with a little pre-planning, neither health nor vacation needs to be sacrificed.

Here are some useful tips for  traveling with diabetes :

Pack snacks to manage diabetes on vacation

• Some non-perishable snacks like protein bars, homemade trail mix, popcorn, peanuts, dry fruits. mixed nuts and seeds, whole-grain crackers.
• The snacks should include both protein and carb to balance out your blood sugar. These should be adequately available, to ensure supplies in case of unexpected delays.

 Follow the “one carb tip” when going out for a meal.

— which may be rice or wheat-based. It is difficult to have control over what you receive in a restaurant and blood sugar management may be troublesome. This simple rule of thumb will help you to stay in control.

Always keep your diabetes supplies close by :

Like medications and glucometer. Keep back up insulin in a carry-on if traveling by plane and keep insulin cold using a cold pack,  A freezer pack will destroy the insulin. Carry the prescriptions for your medications in case you run out. Have a letter stating your diabetes and why you need your medical supplies.

Traveling by plane?

Let airport security know you have diabetes. Keep your insulin in a separate quart-sized bag from your other liquids. Stay up to date on current airline regulations prior to traveling since these are often subject to change. People with diabetes are usually exempt from the liquid restrictions for medications, fast-acting liquid carbs, and gel packs.

Be prepared to treat low glucose

In case of an emergency, it is important to have some quick-acting sugar on hand like glucose tablets or powder. You can also keep small packs of juice while traveling.

Travel Health Insurance

• Diabetes is considered a pre-existing medical condition and must be declared to the insurer before travel.
• Many regular insurance companies do not charge extra for insuring people with diabetes if they have no complications.
• Some insurance companies will not replace lost, stolen, or damaged insulin or other supplies.

Remember: Diabetes can make everyday life and travel more challenging but planning is key to a successful trip. The more you plan ahead, the more you will be able to relax and enjoy your travel adventures!

About the author- Dr. Sagarika Mukherjee, Consultant in  Diabetes & Endocrinology, Manipal Hospitals, Salt Lake City, Kolkata