Diabetes travel checklist

Steps for a Safe and Carefree Journey

• Wear your identification bracelet/necklace and carry an ID card with your name, your doctor's name and phone number and your current medications.
• Carry your medicines and supplies with you instead of in checked baggage.
• Carry a letter from your doctor stating your medical needs and concerns.
• Carry recent prescriptions for medicines and supplies, or carry items in their package that include a pharmacy prescription label.
• Receive any pre-trip vaccinations early to prevent unexpected reactions from ruining your trip.
• Obtain medication to treat nausea and diarrhea for emergencies.
• Test your blood glucose regularly.
• Take more than enough insulin, oral medication, or other medicines to last the entire trip.
• Keep your insulin and blood glucose test strips from getting too hot or too cold. (If you are comfortable, then your supplies generally will be fine.)
• Always carry insulin, testing materials, snacks, and low glucose treatments. Also carry something more substantial in case of meal delays (cheese and crackers, peanut butter or cold cut sandwich, etc.).
• Follow your normal daily schedule as well as you can (including medicines, meals, snacks, activity, and sleep).
• When changing time zones, try to stick to your regular schedule, with meals about 4-5 hours apart. Gradually make adjustments to new time zones.

Learn where and how to get medical care at your destination before you leave home.