Travel Boldly With Diabetes: Expert Tips

Living with diabetes doesn’t mean putting your travel dreams on hold. While it might seem daunting to manage your condition while exploring new places, nurse practitioner Stephanie Guignard, who was diagnosed with diabetes in 2021, is on a mission to prove it’s entirely possible. “I don’t think having diabetes should ruin your life,” she tells Travel Noire, emphasizing that with the right preparation, you can travel boldly and confidently.

Understanding the Challenges of Traveling with Diabetes

For the estimated 571 million adults worldwide living with diabetes, travel days can present unique hurdles. Flight delays or cancellations can disrupt meal schedules, potentially impacting blood sugar levels. International travel, in particular, brings concerns about navigating airport security with supplies like needles and insulin, accessing medications, adapting to different time zones, and knowing where to find medical help in an unfamiliar place.

Guignard shares her own experience of being unexpectedly stuck in Colorado for five extra days, highlighting the importance of always having enough medication. “People with diabetes have to constantly plan for getting stuck somewhere, having prescriptions, knowing what clinic is near, or where the medic station is at a resort or on a cruise,” she advises.

Essential Tips for a Stress-Free Journey

The good news is that with thoughtful planning, diabetes doesn’t have to limit your adventures. Whether you dream of hiking mountains, relaxing on a beach, or exploring new continents, here are some actionable tips to ensure a smooth travel experience:

• **Before You Go:** Consult your doctor to ensure you’re fit to travel and discuss personalized management strategies. Request refills for medications and ask for extra prescriptions, as insurance might initially deny early refills. Always carry a copy of your prescriptions.
• **Packing Smart:** Pack all medical supplies and healthy snacks in your carry-on bag for easy access. Guignard recommends packing double the amount of medication you think you’ll need. Never pack essential medical items in checked luggage.
• **Navigating Airports:** U.S. airports allow individuals with diabetes to carry more than 3.4 ounces of liquid medications in carry-on bags. This also applies to fast-acting sugar sources like juice or gel packs. Remember to check international airport regulations for liquids and medications.
• **Security Checks:** Inform TSA agents if you have an insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor (CGM), as X-ray machines can potentially damage them. Request a hand inspection instead.

While Traveling: Staying on Track

• **Food and Hydration:** Pack plenty of healthy food options and water. For road trips, use a cooler; for flights, opt for fruits and nuts. Stay hydrated, especially in hot climates.
• **Movement is Key:** Wear comfortable walking shoes and compression socks. Take breaks during road trips to stretch, and walk the aisles of planes and trains every hour or two to prevent blood clots.
• **Time Zone Management:** Use your phone’s notes, set alarms, or utilize apps like Medisafe and Dosecast to keep track of medication times when crossing time zones.
• **Monitor Your Health:** Regularly check your blood sugar levels upon arrival to detect any highs or lows. Enjoy new foods in moderation and be mindful of alcohol and caffeine consumption, as they can affect glucose levels and lead to dehydration.

Adapting to New Environments

• **Mind the Heat:** High temperatures, dehydration, and sunburn can significantly impact blood sugar levels. Protect yourself with sunscreen and a hat, and avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks on very hot days. Be aware that heat can also damage diabetes equipment like monitors and insulin pumps; keep them in cool, dry places.
• **Emergency Preparedness:** Ensure you have more than enough medication and syringes for your trip, plus a prescription for emergencies. Research healthcare provider options and key local phrases (e.g., “I have diabetes”) if traveling internationally.
• **Medical Identification:** Consider wearing a medical ID bracelet or necklace indicating your diabetes.
• **Travel Insurance:** Purchase travel insurance to cover potential flight cancellations or medical emergencies.

We’re not stuck. It’s not inevitable that we’re going to have complications. The more people are aware and educated about what you can do, little small things every day, you can prevent complications. — Stephanie Guignard

Traveling with diabetes requires extra planning, but it opens up a world of possibilities. By staying informed, prepared, and proactive, you can embrace your adventures with confidence and enjoy exploring the globe.