How to manage diabetes when travelling

Travelling with diabetes means there are a few more things to think about before you set off, but it shouldn’t be a barrier to having fun. Certainly, if you’re travelling abroad, a little extra planning can go a long way.

If you are going on a long-haul flight, discuss this with your healthcare team first. They will advise you on any adjustments to your insulin injections, insulin pump or medication that may be required if you are crossing time zones. On long flights you may need snacks in between meals and at bedtime to prevent blood sugar levels dropping too low; if you use insulin, monitor your levels frequently and be prepared to change to your dosage.

Insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems can be damaged if they pass through certain types of screening equipment, such as X-ray machines, whole-body scanners and hand-luggage scanners. Airport security staff should provide people who use medical devices with safe alternatives that will not damage their diabetes technology, and should never insist they go through security equipment that may damage them. Carry a Medical Device Awareness Card and a letter from your GP to remind you and airport staff of any screening advice.

If you’re travelling in a hot climate, remember that heat can affect your insulin and stop it from working properly; it can always be kept cool in a hotel fridge or cool bag (provided that it does not freeze). Cloudy insulin damaged by heat may have a brownish colour, and clear insulin may become cloudy – do not use insulin that looks like this.

Insulin can freeze in extreme temperatures but cannot be used if it has been frozen, so make sure it doesn’t come into contact with any ice blocks if using a cool bag. If you’re travelling in the polar regions, keep it in your cabin at room temperature or in an insulated inside pocket to prevent freezing.

It’s important to remember your routines for managing diabetes when you’re abroad. Don’t avoid trying new things, but be aware that eating different foods, becoming more or less active, or drinking alcohol can all make a big difference to your blood sugar levels, so check regularly in order to keep yourself safe.

Diabetes in numbers

More than 5 million people in the UK are living with diabetes.

An estimated 850,000 people in the UK could be living with diabetes but are yet to be diagnosed 

Fewer than 1 in 10 people in the UK with diabetes have type 1 diabetes, where the pancreas produces no insulin

Five ways to manage diabetes when you travel

1. Bring two to three times as much insulin, medication and equipment as you’d usually use, in case you have to stay longer or there are disruptions.

2. Make sure your travel insurance policy covers pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, as many don’t, and ensure that you are covered for any emergency medical costs arising from this.

3. It’s important to keep insulin in your hand luggage in case your luggage is lost, and because the hold is so cold that it may be damaged.

4. Airlines can provide details on the timings of meals so you can plan your insulin. Standard meals may not supply enough carbohydrates if you are on insulin or certain diabetes tablets, but cabin crew can often give you additional fruit, crackers or rolls.

5. Bring a doctor’s letter stating you have diabetes and that you need to carry medical supplies. This is often requested by airlines/operators. Also take a copy of a recent prescription in case you need supplies while away

All content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, treatment or diagnosis. Consult a healthcare professional before taking action.