Traveling with Diabetes

I also suggest you Google "Traveling with Diabetes" as there are lots of websites with info. There is also a book The "Diabetes Travel Guide" by Davida Kruger.

Do you have any particular concerns? There have been many discussions on the Helpline on this topic. Frank II's suggestions are good, too - you can't go wrong there.

1) What type of insulin do you use? Does it have to be kept cool? If so, get a small insulated lunch box and take baggies to put ice in. That will help cool it. 2) Be certain to take plenty of supplies. Also have your doctor write out specific instructions (ie. glucometer reading of ___ inject ___ cc of insulin....). Talk to your doctor about the fact that you may be walking more than normal and ask how to adjust how often you test, inject, etc. 3) Take either glucose tablets or gel (in a tube)in case of very low readings. Also make sure you have high protein balanced snack type foods and water with you at all times. Buy some peanut butter, cheese, crakers, etc. after arrival. Don't count on being near a store in case of symptoms of low or high sugar. 4) Make sure your travel companion fully understands your condition, knows the symptoms of high and low sugar counts and MOST IMPORTANTLY knows what to do. 5) If you don't already know how to count carbs, learn!!! And don't be afraid to ask about menu items in resturants. I have a very good medical information sheet. It has places for your doctors' info, lists your current meds and why you use them, etc. You could use it as a model to create your own (doctors, nurses, EMTs, etc have all complemented on it and made suggesstions to improve it) Private message me and I'll give you my email so you can send me your email. I email you a copy.

I am a type 1 diabetic. I use an insulin pump and a continuous glucose moniter. I have been to Europe many times with no problems. Here are a few suggestions: To keep insulin cool (it does not need to be refrigerated for the bottle you are using) look into a Frio. It is a gel bag that you wet down, and it keeps the insulin cool for up to 5 days with air circulation. Make sure you check and double check your supplies[INVALID]take more than you need! Take copies of all your scrips, just in case. Have a note from your doctor that explains your condition and the meds you must take. Carry it with you at all times. Wear medic alert with pertinent information engraved on it. Make sure all your meds have prescription labels on them. You can take syringes, etc. on board a flight, as long as you have insulin in a labeled bottle. Check the TSA webiste for more information. The American Diabetes Association website also have really good travel info for diabetics. MOST OF ALL: Have a great time!

Thanks to all of you for your advice - I feel like a huge weight has been lifted.