If you're in the Northern Hemisphere, summer is upon us, and that often means summer travel. No matter where you’re headed, here’s a list (and some tips) that I’ve developed over 25 years of traveling with T1.
Scroll down for a free download of the list.
I've been traveling a lot lately, with more coming up soon—
In March, I was in Italy for 10 days
In April, I traveled to the USA for 10 days
And just two weeks ago, I was in Morocco for 5 days
I wanted to share how I travel and what I bring for diabetes management. (Psst. It’s minimalist.)
*Disclaimer, this may or may not work for you and your style of travel.
Essentials Supplies List:
Insulin (rapid-acting and long-acting), what you're currently using and a back up that will cover double the amount you would normally need for the number of days you'll be gone.
Insulin pen needles and/or syringes
Insulin Pumps:
Double the number of reservoirs and infusion sets (or pods) for the number of days you'll be gone. If you're going to be away from home for 6 days and your sets usually last three days, pack 2 each of reservoir and infusion set, plus one to spare of each, so 3 each.
Power cord, if needed
Spare batteries, if needed.
CGMs:
Double the number of CGMs that you would normally need for the number of days you'll be gone. More if yours falls off frequently, or if you anticipate there may be adhesion issues (lots of activity and/or sand/water/sunscreen/sweat exposure).
Glucose - more than what you anticipate needing. I prefer rolls of glucose candies, because they're easily transportable, measurable, and fast-acting.
Blood glucose meter, strips, lancing device, lancets, and extra batteries
Backup meter, strips, lancing device, lancets and extra batteries, if you’re not using a CGM
Insulin cooling bag or device, if needed.
Glucagon - always a good idea, even if you've never needed it
Click here to get the downloadable packing list
Packing Tips:
Separate your supplies into a "Everyday bag" and "backup bag". The everyday bag is something you keep with you AT ALL TIMES. The backup bag is packed in a carry-on and you can often leave it at the hotel or AirBnB.*
I never carry all my supplies in one bag, in case that bag is lost or stolen.
Since I'm MDI, my supplies are minimalist, and my main "kit" lives in my purse and is always with me. When I’m flying, this bag lives under the seat in front of me during takeoff and landing, and during long flights, it is in the seat with me.
My second "backup" bag is in my carry-on, which is in the overhead bin on the airplane.
Never put medications or supplies in checked luggage!
If you are traveling with large amounts of diabetes supplies (I've done this when moving internationally), you may be allowed a separate carry-on that is dedicated to medical supplies. Consult with your airline to confirm this. I've traveled with a carry-on size roller bag full of pump supplies without issue.
*At your destination, if you're going on an excursion for more than a few hours, you may want to carry some extra supplies from your backup bag, just in case.
Airport Security:
I've not been questioned about supplies or my devices in over 10 years. When I used a tubed insulin pump, I would always declare it to TSA and request a wand-check/hand swab because I didn't want the pump to go through the scanner.
Now on MDI, I walk through security, without saying anything about diabetes or extra supplies, and I'm fine.
Pro Tip: Check your blood sugar before you get to security and put some glucose in your pocket, just in case. Several years ago, I was traveling alone, my bag was flagged for an inspection, my blood sugar level was going low, CGM alarming, and I was not allowed to reach into my bag for glucose. I was trying to stay calm with the TSA agent, but I'm afraid that I may have been a bit panicked and rude.
Doctor's Note:
I have only carried a doctor's note to countries where diabetes devices/supplies may not be as common. This included Egypt last year — and although airport security was the most strict I have ever seen, I had no issues.
Before that, I carried doctor's letters to Thailand and Peru 20 years ago, more in case of a supply/insulin emergency abroad rather than TSA, but quickly learned that if I pack smartly, the letter is not needed for airport security.
Food:
During my most recent travels to Italy and the USA, I had access to a kitchen, and I was able to cook. In Morocco, I did not cook, and was pleasantly surprised with all the great low carb food available.
And this may be controversial, but I don't pack food with me when I fly. I prefer to travel light and I can buy something if needed. Nuts are readily available everywhere for a quick bite. Salads and vegetable dishes are also often available. Plus, I don’t need to be eating all the time.
Supplies I Use:
Frio Cooling Wallet: My Frio has lasted for 15 years and it’s my go-to for insulin cooling. I like the Large size, because it can easily hold 4 insulin pens
Sugar Medical - My go-to for both my everyday supply bag and my extra supplies when traveling.
The Diabetes Supply Case II has been my go-to for years. I’m never without it. I carry it in my purse daily.
The Convertible Supply bag is wearable, which I love, and holds a lot while not being too large.
The Insulated Travel Bag is nice, but I find it too large and bulky. I’ve never used it for travel. ( I use the detachable inner bag for my extra supplies.)
Are you planning for upcoming travel? Leave a comment to share!
