Traveling with a Person with Diabetes

My son was diagnosed as a type one diabetic at the age of 12 and I learnt over time that traveling was a sure way to disrupt his routines. There are a number of things you can do to prevent sugar lows and highs when travelling.

What a Diabetic needs to Take on Vacation

Diabetes is a condition that needs constant monitoring and it is important that diabetics have all the supplies they need with them on a trip. Here is a check list of what should be included when packing:

• Insulin

• Prescription in case insulin is lost or destroyed

• Insulated travel bag to keep insulin cool

• Glucagon kit

• Glucose sweets

• Glucometer with test strips and extra batteries

• Lancing device and extra needles

• Medical ID bracelet or card stating you are diabetic

• Written list of insulin types and dosages and usual times administered

Maintaining Good Sugar Control while Vacationing

Any change in routine means a change in exercise levels. While this is generally harmless, a diabetic may find it increases or decreases their need for insulin. This effect may be compounded by a change in diet. It is a good idea to write down the times and dosages of insulin is administered while on vacation. If the person does go high or low, this will be a good guide as to what went wrong.

Some diabetics find it tempting to cheat while away and may indulge in sweet treats. If the family is having ice cream or dessert, try and find something for the diabetic person that is not loaded with fat and sugar. Even better, encourage the whole family to eat healthily.

If going on an extended road trip, make sure you pack plenty of snacks and drinks for the journey. Include a high glucose energy drink and some glucose sweets in case of a sudden drop in sugar levels.

Traveling through time zones can also affect insulin levels. Try not to make drastic adjustments to dosage times and monitor sugar levels very carefully during the transition stage.

If flying, keep insulin and other medical supplies in your carryon bags. Checked in bags do go astray and being without insulin for several hours can pose a serious health problem to a diabetic.

If travelling to a foreign destination, vomiting and diarrhoea can be a problem. Ensure the diabetic checks sugar levels frequently and if they are unable to keep food down, seek medical help urgently.

It is quite safe for diabetics to travel but they need to take care to pack everything they need. While away they need to make sure they administer insulin on a regular basis and keep a close eye on sugar levels. If stomach upsets occur, medical help should be sought. All this takes extra effort but can mean a more relaxed vacation in the long term.