Essential Advice for Diabetic Travelers
For individuals living with Type 2 diabetes, travel requires careful planning to manage their condition effectively. Here are some crucial tips from registered dietitian and diabetes educator Emma Rueth to help you prepare for a smooth and healthy trip.
Preparing Your Travel Medications and Supplies
Pack more than enough medication and supplies that you will need for your entire journey, including some extra in case of travel delays. Be sure to include insulin pens, insulin pump supplies, oral diabetes medication, GLP-1 or dual GLP-1/GIP agonist injectable medication, testing supplies like a glucometer and continuous glucose monitor (CGM) replacement sensors, and glucose tablets if you're at risk for low blood sugar. It's best to pack your medication and supplies in your carry-on luggage when traveling by air.
Wearing a Medical ID Bracelet
Consider wearing a medical ID bracelet that contains vital information about your medical condition, medications, and allergies, which can offer you peace of mind in the event of an emergency. It's also advisable to carry a letter from your healthcare provider that outlines your medical condition and any medications you take. Additionally, you can print and carry a TSA Disability Notification Card.
Thinking Ahead with Snacks and Meals
Remember to bring healthy, carb-conscious snacks like carrots, hummus, nuts, and protein bars to maintain blood sugar levels during travel. When having a meal on the road or at the airport, opt for food court options such as fresh fruit, nuts, or a salad with grilled chicken. While enjoying local cuisine at your destination, keep track of your blood sugar to make any necessary adjustments.
Staying Hydrated
Make sure to drink water regularly throughout your journey, especially in hotter environments, as you may become dehydrated more quickly if your blood sugar is uncontrolled. Carry a reusable water bottle with you, and prioritize drinking water during long flights and before, during, and after activities.
Wearing Comfortable Clothes and Shoes
The quality and comfort of your clothing and shoes are essential for a pleasant travel experience, especially during long flights or road trips. Opt for breathable, comfortable clothing and avoid open-toed shoes if your hemoglobin A1C is above 7% due to a higher risk of infections.
Staying on Top of Your Medication
Traveling, especially to a different time zone, can cause jet lag and disrupt your regular medication routine. To avoid this, set an alarm or reminder on your phone for when you need to take your medication or test your blood sugar levels.
"Don't let Type 2 diabetes stop you from traveling," advises Rueth. With these considerations in mind, you can enjoy a fun and healthy trip while effectively managing your Type 2 diabetes. Consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions about managing your condition while traveling.
- For effective management of Type 2 diabetes during travel, pack more than enough medication and supplies, including insulin, testing supplies, and healthy snacks like nuts and protein bars for maintaining blood sugar levels.
- To offer peace of mind in case of emergencies, consider wearing a medical ID bracelet that contains relevant medical information and opt for carrying a letter from your healthcare provider articulating your medical condition and medications.
- While on the road, prioritize healthy meal choices such as fresh fruit, salads, and local cuisine whilst keeping track of blood sugar levels to make necessary adjustments.
- Stay hydrated during travel, particularly in hotter environments, by drinking water regularly and carrying a reusable water bottle.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, especially during long flights or road trips, focusing on breathable, comfortable fabrics and avoiding open-toed shoes if your hemoglobin A1C is above 7%. To remain consistent with your medication routine despite time zone changes, set alarms or reminders on your phone for taking medication and testing blood sugar levels.
