Relaxed travel with diabetes: checklist and tips for people with diabetes

Vacation is the best time of the year - but with diabetes there are a few extra to-dos that are important before you leave. Sounds like stress? It doesn't have to be! Because the better prepared you are, the more relaxed your trip will be. And let's be honest: stress can also really mess with your blood sugar levels. With the right tips, a good checklist and a bit of organization, you can set off on a relaxed journey - whether it's a plane trip, city break or adventure vacation.

Table of contents

What do people with diabetes need to consider before travelling?
What should the first-aid kit for diabetics look like?
What should be considered when travelling by air with diabetes?
How does time difference affect diabetes therapy?
Key points in summary

What do people with diabetes need to consider before traveling?

Before you set off, you should definitely talk to your doctor. They know your individual situation best and can advise you on how to adapt your therapy to your vacation. They will also issue you with a medical certificate. You will need this in particular for medication, syringes and aids in your hand luggage.

A certificate can help, for example, if security officials at the airport have questions or if you have to prove your illness abroad. Speak openly with your doctor - they will make sure you have all the documents and tips you need for your trip.

Checklist: Important documents

👉 You can also find a helpful overview here.

Vaccinations & insurance cover

You should think about necessary vaccinations in good time, especially when traveling abroad. Also find out what benefits your health insurance covers abroad - and whether travel insurance is worthwhile.

What should a first-aid kit for diabetics look like?

The right first-aid kit is the be-all and end-all when traveling with diabetes. Important: Always pack at least twice the amount of insulin and medication. That way, you'll be covered even if your trip takes longer or something goes missing.

This belongs in your diabetes first-aid kit

• Insulin: basal insulin & bolus insulin, each with at least two cartridges or vials more than required
• Medication: tablets to lower blood sugar, emergency medication
• Syringes, pens & needles: Always take enough with you
• Blood glucose meter + spare batteries and enough test strips
• Dextrose and other snacks to prevent hypoglycemia
• Glucagon syringe for emergencies
• Accessories for insulin pumps, if you use one
• Diary or app for documentation (handy for doctor's visits abroad)
  

👉 You can also find a detailed packing list here.

Storage & refrigeration

Insulin is sensitive: it should be stored between 2 and 8 degrees. Check whether your hotel room has a fridge - if not, special travel cooler bags, thermos flasks or even damp towels can help. If your insulin turns brown or flaky, it is unusable - so check your blood sugar more often when traveling to be sure.

What should I bear in mind when traveling by plane with diabetes?

Air travel in particular requires a little extra planning. Basic rule: All important items such as insulin, medication, syringes and test strips belong in your hand luggage - never in the hold. Extreme temperatures there could make your insulin unusable.

Tips for your flight

• Pack all diabetes-related items in your hand luggage.
• Keep your medical certificate handy.
• Inform the security staff at the airport about your illness.
• Use special cool bags if your flight is particularly long.

Transparency is also important at the security checkpoint. Simply say that you are diabetic and are carrying your medication - with the right documents, there are usually no problems here either.

👉 You can find a helpful packing list here. Please note: This list is not a substitute for medical advice, but only serves as a general guide.

How does time difference affect diabetes therapy?

If you are traveling across several time zones, the time difference plays a major role. Your body needs some time to adjust - and so does your insulin therapy.

Adjusting the insulin times

Before traveling, talk to your doctor about how you can adjust your insulin injections. Sometimes it is enough to shift the times slightly, sometimes a precise plan is necessary.

This is because the time difference can really mess up your therapy:

• Flying west: the day gets longer, you usually need more insulin.
• Eastbound flight: The day is shorter, so you often need less insulin.

Keep an eye on your blood sugar

Your metabolism is particularly challenged in the first few days after arrival. Measure your blood sugar more frequently to avoid hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia. Factors such as climate, activity and food also influence blood sugar levels.

Differences between type 1 and type 2

• Type 1 diabetes: therapy is more sensitive, adjustments need to be made more precisely.
• Type 2 diabetes: more flexible adjustments possible, but consultation with the doctor is also important here.

Key points summarized

• Preparation is everything: talk to your doctor, obtain certificates and check vaccinations.
• Pack everything twice: Insulin, medication, syringes, test strips, glucose.
• Hand luggage first: When traveling by air, everything important belongs in your hand luggage.
• Keep an eye on refrigeration: Store insulin between 2-8 degrees.
• Take time differences into account: Adjust intake times for insulin & medication.
• Measure blood sugar more often: Especially when flying and during the first few days of vacation.
• Stay flexible: Whether on a relaxing or active vacation - adjust your dose to the activity and climate.
• Have an emergency plan ready: Diabetic card, European emergency card & travel insurance to protect you.

👉 With the right preparation, you will not only travel safely, but also with a good feeling. So: pack your bags, don't forget the glucose - and then enjoy your vacation! 🌍✈️