Diabetic travellers

Whenever you travel it is essential to plan ahead. A visit to your Diabetic Adviser or GP as soon as you are aware of your travel schedule is a good place to start. If you plan carefully now, you will save yourself from a lot of trouble later on.

Plan Ahead

It is important to think through your trip. Research your destination carefully and think through the practicalities of how long you plan to be away, and what kind of activities you plan to take part in - will you be more or less active than you normally are at home? And what about food, do you easily adapt to other foods or will you have a hard time finding something you like to eat?

Visit your GP or diabetic advisor in good time to sort out your supplies and equipment -

A letter from your GP confirming you are a diabetic, and why you have needles in your possession, would be a good idea!
Make sure you get a prescription for your medication, enough for the trip and a bit more.
Purchasing a diabetic identity bracelet gives some travellers the piece of mind they need when travelling, as does having medications listed for emergency situations.
Immunisations and anti-malaria medication are usually safe for the diabetic, and should be discussed with your doctor.
Insurance is best sorted out as soon as possible and the wise traveller will shop around. It is important to mention your diabetes as a pre-existing condition. Ask at Diabetes UK if you need help in finding a good policy. Excellent guides can also be purchased at Diabetes UK, giving you specific country prescription regulations. As well as good insurance, you will also need an E111 if you are travelling within Europe.

Travelling with Insulin

When you travel by air it is not always necessary to order "diabetic meals". Check your carbohydrate intake regularly and, if required, top-up with snacks on the journey.

When travelling by air don't be afraid to ask a flight attendant for more food or a slice of bread if you need it. When you are about to eat on a flight, don't take your insulin until you see the food coming down the isle - all kinds of things can cause a hold up or delay in it getting to you!

If you are travelling into unknown territories, take plenty of snacks, especially if you are backpacking and are unsure of your read more