For people with diabetes, traveling presents the added challenge of carrying the required dosages of insulin. Whether you are heading to France by airplane, the Caribbean by cruise ship or the Rocky Mountains by car, insulin is easy to include in your travel plans.
Instructions
1. Take plenty of insulin with you. The best advice for those traveling with diabetes is to pack enough insulin to last you the entire trip, plus a little extra. Other states and other countries may not carry the exact type and concentration of insulin that you need. Your doctor or pharmacist can assist you with determining the amount you will need for the duration of your travels.
2. Package your insulin properly. A doctor's note is ideal for airport security and emergency situations, but the next best thing is to have the original pharmacy labels on your insulin and the manufacturer labels on your insulin equipment (syringes, lancets, blood glucose meters, etc.). If you are traveling by plane, airport security will always accept medical prescriptions and equipment that is clearly marked.
3. Carry your insulin and diabetes equipment in a sturdy case. Many travel packs are available that will store insulin and tools all together. Better yet, there are slightly more expensive versions that are designed to be temperature controlled. You can find hundreds of travel packs available online, or stop in at your local pharmacy. Place your insulin somewhere in your bag where it will not be vulnerable to getting hit, smashed or busted open.
4. Separate your supply into two bags, and always keep these bags nearby. If one bag is lost, you will have at least some of your insulin in the other bag. For air travel, always pack the insulin in your carry-on baggage rather than in a checked bag. The temperature variations can do serious damage to your supply. For other travel, such as camping, road trips or a cruise, be careful to store the insulin in a cool, accessible environment.
5. Insulate your insulin to avoid overheating or over-cooling. Specialty insulation bags are designed for people with diabetes and can be purchased online, at a medical supply store, at a public pharmacy or in the clinic/hospital pharmacy.
6. Stash a few snacks in your luggage. Should you be in a situation where insulin is unavailable or ineffective, a snack can save your life and assist others who are trying to help you out.
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