BSD TIPS and REGULATIONS FOR TRAVELING WITH DIABETES

  Due to unfortunate developments in air travel, the FAA does not allow anyone to bring any bottles, tubes etc. with liquid, gel etc. on airplanes.  Therefore, it is now necessary to have a prescription for all medications, insulin, syringes etc., with the name of the person traveling (same as on the ticket and ID).  If not you may encounter problems with bringing insulin, syringes, pump supplies etc in your hand luggage. (Due to extreme temperature changes in the luggage compartment we recommend keeping insulin, strips and other medications in your hand luggage)

 If you are traveling by air, land or sea, the most important thing about traveling with diabetes is planning and preparation.  Before embarking on any trip, consult your doctor or health professional.

HIGHLIGHTS TO REMEMBER BEFORE YOU LEAVE:

      *     Have a medical check up

*     Discuss your travel plans with your doctor and/or diabetes educator  

* Get a letter from your doctor with the details of your diabetes, and how to manage it. It should list all medications, equipment and diet specifications that you need.  

*    Get a prescription for all your medications     

*Identify medical resources at your destination*    

If you are flying through time zones, plan changes in your meal and medication schedule with your doctor or diabetes educator

*     If you are going on a cruise, discuss how to manage the lavish meals and how to maintain an exercise program  

ill get your meal, it is recommended that you take your medication only when you have your meal at your seat.  It may be inconvenient but will help in avoiding a low blood sugar.

*     If you will be encountering extreme weather (hot or cold) at your travel destination you may want to have a travel pouch that keeps your medications at normal temperature. 

*     Always have some extra food in your handbag in case of delays or lack of proper meals. This is especially important for those who will be traveling during the holiday seasons and do not eat airline and/or store bought food

*     It is advisable to have disposable wash-ups in convenient travel size, handy, in case it is difficult to get to water in order to wash your hands before testing. (Remember to wipe the area with a clean tissue since there can be ingredients in the wash-ups that can cause incorrect high readings)

*     Always have extra medication and supplies with you when traveling.  Things can get lost, bottles can brake, etc.. You do not want to be caught in a situation unprepared

Packing Checklist:

*       Syringes, alcohol swabs, wash-ups

*       Blood testing supplies

*       Healthy snack foods

*       Small bottles of water—you may not be allowed to bring these on board with you due to new regulations—but it is always good to have bottled water around where you will be staying. So purchase some as soon as you reach your destination

*      

 While you are traveling: 

*    Carry your medications and supplies in your hand luggage

*    Wear a watch with an alarm or have some kind of alarm device. Set it to remind yourself to check your blood glucose levels and to take your medications at the appropriate times

*    Have a card in your wallet in a visible place clearly listing contact information and medications

 When you arrive:

*    Never drink tap water in a foreign country

*    Wear comfortable shoes at all times, check your feet everyday

*    Always ask for the ingredients in new and/or unfamiliar foods

WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR YOUR TRAVEL STORIES AND EXPERIENCES!

Have A Safe, and Healthy Trip!!!

Updated 2019, copyright Jewish Diabetes Association.