Are you planning a trip? Have you always dreamed of going abroad or on a long cruise but considered it impossible due to your diabetes?
There’s good news! Diabetes doesn’t mean you can’t travel and take the vacations of your dreams: it just means you need to plan ahead, pack the right things, and prepare yourself for any health situation you may encounter while away.
Before you take a big trip
If you haven’t done much traveling while taking care of your diabetes, it’s a good idea to take a smaller vacation or weekend trip before the big trip. This “dress rehearsal” will give you a good idea of what you need, in what quantities, and how to pack it. By practicing travel, you can see how things work and how you best maintain your care while away from home.
It’s also important to visit your doctor before a trip. Get an exam to check your overall health as well as your diabetes. The American Diabetes Association also suggests that you get two documents from your health care provider: a letter, outlining your care needs and any medical devices, syringes, insulin, and medications that you use. The second is a prescription for your insulin or diabetes medications.
How to pack for a trip
The way you pack for your trip will be key in maintaining your diabetes and dealing with any issues that may arise. Pack double what you need is important. It’s also imperative that you keep your medication and supplies with you at all times. If you’ll be flying, this means keeping everything in your carry-on and never putting your medications in checked baggage.
While traveling, make sure you have snacks on hand to treat low blood sugar. If you’re eating on a flight, request a meal low in cholesterol, sugar, or fat.
Safety tips
When you arrive at your destination, make sure you take into account the time differences so you can update your care schedule. Inform those you’re traveling with about your diabetes in case of an emergency. Doctors advise that you wear a medical ID bracelet identifying you as a diabetic, which could help if you are unconscious and transported to the hospital. If you’ll be trying new foods or eating at irregular times, test your blood sugar more frequently about 90 minutes after you eat.
Prepare for an emergency
In the rare chance that you will need medical care abroad, it is good to have a list of doctors or hospitals in the area you’ll be staying. If you’re at a resort or on a cruise, acquaint yourself with the clinic on site.
Just because you have diabetes doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy worldwide travel! You just need to plan ahead and prepare in order to have the most relaxing and safe vacation possible.
