When it comes to traveling with diabetes, there are several things you should



keep in mind to ensure your trip is memorable. Of course, you want it to be

memorable because of all of the fun you had and the memories you created –

not because you were sick the entire time due to insulin problems or because

you were held up at the airport because you improperly packed your medical supplies.

Therefore, there are a few things you should do and you should be aware of before

you embark on your next great journey.

Know Your Rights

The first thing you need to do before traveling by plane is to know your rights

and to know the law as it applies to individuals with diabetes.

Ever since the major events that took place on September 11th, the Department

of Homeland Security has clamped down even harder on what can and cannot be

brought on an airplane. As a result of the regulations that are in place, items

such as shampoo, toothpaste, suntan lotion, hair gel, creams, and even beverages

need to be packed in your non-carry on baggage. Therefore, you will need to

change you contingency plan if you normally use juice boxes or other beverages

to raise your blood sugar levels. This means you might need to pack

solid foods, such as granola bars and crackers, instead.

When it comes to your medicine, you have the right to carry that onboard with

you. Before bringing it on board, however, you will have to allow it

to be inspected. Be sure the medicine is clearly labeled with your

name on it. In addition, you will need to bring a letter from the doctor stating

your need for the medication. If you are traveling internationally, it is helpful

to have it translated in the language or languages of the country you will be

traveling to. All of your medical supplies must then be packed inside a clear

plastic bag and this bag should be kept separate from your carry on bag.

You might want to consider notifying the airline about your medical

condition prior to arriving for your flight. Also, it is a good idea

to double-check on what supplies are allowable. According to the Department

of Homeland Security, the following products are permissible:

• Insulin



• Unused syringes, as long as you also have injectable medication



• Used syringes, as long as they are being transported in a Sharps disposable
  
  container



• Loaded insulin dispensing products, such as jet injectors, pens, preloaded
  
  syringes, and infusers



• Blood glucose meters, test strips, lancets, meter-testing solutions, alcohol
  
  swabs



• Insulin pump and supplies, including batteries, cleaning agents, plastic
  
  tubing, catheter, infusion kit, and needle



• Urine ketone testing strips



• Glucagons emergency kit

If you are wearing an insulin pump and are uncomfortable with walking through

the metal detector at the airport, you have the right to request a visual

inspection and a full-body pat down instead. Inform the inspector that

the pump cannot be removed because it is inserted beneath your skin and be sure

to let the inspector know if you are experiencing low blood sugar.

Check Your Blood Sugar Levels Frequently

Most people with diabetes check their blood sugar levels 2 to 4 times a day.

When you are traveling, however, you should check your blood sugar levels

more frequently. Don't allow the excitement of your day to allow

you to forget about this important precaution. In fact, the excitement can actually

cause your blood sugar levels to rise, as can the heat that is often associated

with travel. So, checking your blood sugar on a regular basis becomes even more

important.

To further assist with overcoming the heat, be sure to keep yourself hydrated.

Carry water with you wherever you go and sip it often. Your goal should

be to drink at least eight 8 ounce glasses of water every day. Of course,

drinking more water is even better. You should also be careful to keep your

test strips, insulin, and meters out of direct sunlight. It is best to store

them in insulated containers or to use ice packs when storing them, but be careful

to avoid freezing them.

Have a Team in Place

Before heading out on vacation or business travel, be sure to consult with

your doctor and anyone else involved with your diabetes care program, such as

a nutritionist. Your doctor may suggest increasing your insulin dosages

while you are away and your nutritionist can provide you with suggestions for

foods you can keep on hand while on the plane and visiting sites. It is also

a good idea to get a prescription from your doctor in case of an emergency or

in case you accidentally lose your medical supplies.

By taking these few precautionary measures, you will be sure to have a fun,

and safe, travel experience.