Traveling with diabetes

1. Keep insulin cool. - An insulin storage container will maintain the proper temperature.

2. Take copies of prescriptions & pharmacy information. - Pharmacist contact information and copies of prescriptions will expedite replacement or ordering medications and supplies. - Airport security or immigration may request medication information.

3. Pack insulin or medications in your carry-on bag. - Medications are best kept with you at all times. You have them when you need them.

4. Keep snacks handy and plentiful. - Don't count on your next meal. Traffic delays, missed connections, breakdowns, etc. will occur. Keep snacks with you to maintain your blood glucose levels until the next meal.

5. Exercise when traveling long distances. - Long flights, train rides and road trips can result in deep vein thrombosis. Take breaks, move around and exercise.

6. Be ready for the unexpected. - Things happen while traveling. Mechanical breakdowns, unplanned events and changes in schedules are routine. Always think about "what would I do if " and know what to do when it happens.

7. Plan ahead for changes in time zones, temps, etc. - Have a plan and work with your diabetes educator to know how you will keep your insulin cool and how to adjust your medication schedule at your destination.

8. Carry local numbers for emergency assistance. - Locate hospitals, emergency care facilities, diabetes association offices, embassies and tourist information centers for emergency medical assistance along your trip.

9. Carry medical identification at all times. - If you become incapacitated, wallet cards, ID bracelets or shoe ID's will make medical personnel aware of your diabetes.

10. Make travel companions aware of your diabetes. -When traveling with others tell them how to help you if necessary.

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Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) airport enforcement and interpretation of the new restrictions for individuals with diabetes varies widely from airport to airport. At one US airport we were not checked at all when we went through security. At another, we experienced some delay as TSA agents were unsure if our diabetic cooler, insulin and supplies were all ok to pass. The agents were very helpful and courteous throughout the entire process. The best advice to travelers with diabetes is to declare to the screener what you are carrying for supplies and work with them to learn how to enforce the new guidelines.

The best way to identify yourself as a diabetic is to wear an identification bracelet. It is easy for anyone to locate. If you have difficulty with low blood sugar, have an attack, cannot speak clearly, etc. a bracelet will let others know that you are diabetic and need medical attention. Other forms of identification such as letters from your doctor or pharmacist or wallet cards are good to have but can be either difficult to find or you can become separated from them. It is difficult to become separated from your bracelet.

ICE -- Another recent method of identification that is gaining some popularity is to enter emergency contact information on your cell phone. Store the word ICE (In Case of Emergency), in your address book with the name of the person to contact in case of emergency. The emergency responder will see the acronym on your cell and access it for the contact information. This is not a replacement for your ID bracelet but another way to make sure that in an emergency you can be helped.

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