While Traveling with Diabetes

Flying

First, visit your airline or other operator's website to review their specific guidelines for passengers with diabetes, as you may need to complete certain forms before your trip.

Labeling

It’s important to carry your insulin and other diabetes supplies with you at all times. Make sure all your medication is properly labeled with your name and the manufacturer’s details. Always follow your doctor's instructions, as outlined on your travel certificate, as well as the guidelines from the manufacturer found on your supplies’ packaging. When going through security, it's best to present this document directly to the security staff and inform them that you have diabetes.

Screening

To avoid unnecessary discussions or misunderstandings about diabetes devices being deemed 'dangerous' at airport security, it’s helpful to inform the security staff in advance that you are carrying medical supplies. Additionally, it's a good idea to arrive earlier than the recommended time, as security checks involving insulin and syringes may take a few extra minutes.¹

During air travel, you are permitted to carry liquids like insulin, juice, or gels for treating hypoglycemia, even in quantities exceeding 100 mL. Ensure these items are easily accessible and inform security during screening. Syringes and needles are also allowed in your carry-on luggage, provided you are carrying the injectable medication (e.g., insulin) with you. ² 

Any medications including injectables such as insulin should be accompanied with a medical clearance letter provided by your doctor.

Adjusting insulin for time zone changes

• Consider talking to your doctor or diabetes educator before adjusting your medication schedule or dosage.
• Depending on whether you're traveling east or west, the length of your travel day may vary, which can affect your insulin dosage.
• If you're crossing time zones, it's important to review your meal and insulin schedule with your doctor or diabetes educator.²

During your flight: Sleeping and Meals

If you plan to sleep during your flight, ensure you don't miss mealtimes or medication times. To help with this, set an alarm on your phone or another device, or ask the airline crew to assist you in staying on schedule.

Before your flight, make sure to check with your airline and inform them if you require special meals tailored for people with diabetes. It’s also a good idea to carry an extra snack or two, along with insulin, in case you're unable to accurately count carbs in an unfamiliar meal, which could lead to hypo- or hyperglycemia. When traveling across time zones, keep in mind that meals will be served at different times than usual, which may disrupt your regular eating schedule. Try to adjust your medication accordingly, and find the best way to manage these changes ahead of time.

Arriving at your destination and time change

If you use insulin and experience jet lag from crossing time zones, it's crucial to check your blood sugar levels as soon as you arrive. The time difference may leave you feeling either extremely tired or unusually alert, which can make it harder to recognize if your glucose is too high or too low. Stay mindful of this and monitor your blood sugar more frequently during this adjustment period.

Hiking

Hiking alone is not advised. However, if you choose to do so, consider these tips:

• Be sure to inform someone of your route and expected return time. Stay in regular contact to help others locate you if any issues arise.
• Higher elevations can impact your blood glucose levels and the supplies you bring! Keep in mind that hiking requires a lot of energy, so be sure to pack plenty of food and drink for your journey.
• Always carry your first aid kit with you.