Diabetes and travel CAN go together--- you just need to take special precautions

by Bob Fleming

Here are 11 tips for easier travel with diabetes, and a link to my special list of emergency phrases in eight different languages.

1. Schedule a visit to your doctor at least a month before you leave to make sure your diabetes is under control. If you need to do any stabilizing, a month will give you enough time. The same month should let your body settle down after any necessary immunization shots, so get those at the same time.
2. Get a letter from your doctor certifying that you are diabetic, and listing the various medications and supplies you must carry with you. Without this, you leave yourself open to possible difficulties passing through security at international border crossings and airports.
3. Also get a prescription for your insulin or other diabetes medication. Even though you should have enough syringes, strips and medication to last your trip, it's always good to have a prescription in case of emergency.
4. Wear an ID bracelet announcing your have diabetes, and also carry a small card saying so in the local language of the places you will be visiting.
5. Learn to express specific diabetic requirements in the local languages. I've compiled a listing of likely phrases in eight languages. Click here to get it. Diabetes_phrases_translated.pdf
6. Pack at least twice as much medication and supplies as you think you'll need. Put half in your suitcase, and half in a special bag that never leaves your possession. The container for these supplies should be sturdy, preferably hard sided, for protection.
7. Carry a sealed pack containing hard candies or glucose tablets in case irregular eating makes your blood sugar drop too low. Your pack should also contain emergency snacks, such as crackers, cheese, fruit, juice --- in case you must wait too long between meals, which can happen when we are traveling.
8. Insulin can lose its strength in extreme temperatures, so carry your supply in a thermally insulated bag.
9. Carry bandages and first-aid cream, comfortable walking shoes and protective beach shoes. Your feet neet extra special care while you're traveling.
10. While on your trip, check your blood sugar more often than usual. Many factors, such as fluctuating temperatures and changing time zones, can cause wild swings in your blood sugar levels. If you check often, you'll be better able to take corrective action as needed.
11. Finally, contact the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers for a list of English speaking doctors in the countries you'll be visiting. Their address is 417 Center Street, Lewiston, NY 14092.

As long as you take sensible precautions to care for your diabetes, there's no reason why it needs to stand in the way of a happy travel experience. Bon voyage!