Travel Tips for People with Diabetes (You Can Still See the World!)
Let’s be honest—travel isn’t always as simple as hopping in a car or catching a plane, especially if you live with diabetes. But having to keep tabs on your blood sugar doesn’t mean the fun and adventure are off-limits! In fact, some of the savviest travelers I know are the ones who always have a backup juice box, never forget a snack, and can navigate airports with the confidence of an off-duty pilot.
Whether you’re heading to visit grandkids, jetting off on a dream cruise, or just exploring somewhere new with your senior living community, there are a few things you can do to make those trips smoother, safer, and honestly, a whole lot more enjoyable.
Packing Like a Pro
First things first—don’t leave your diabetes gear to the last minute. I find it helps to lay everything out the night before. Pack more testing supplies, insulin, and medication than you think you’ll need. (Travel always throws curveballs.) Toss in extra batteries for meters and maybe a prescription or doctor’s note, just in case you have to show airport security what all that gear is for.
Snacks Are Your Best Friend
Travel can mess with your regular meal times, and nobody likes feeling shaky or foggy when there’s sightseeing to do. Granola bars, unsweetened applesauce pouches, or a stash of peanut butter crackers can be a lifesaver. Tuck snacks in both your carry-on and your suitcase, just to be safe. I always recommend something small and sturdy that won’t get crushed at the bottom of your bag.
Keep Your Cool (Literally)
If you use insulin or other meds that need to stay cool, pick up a small insulated case or even bring along a lunch box with a cold pack. Hotel mini fridges can work in a pinch, but don’t count on them always being available or cold enough. Pro tip: let airline staff know you’re traveling with medication—they’re usually pretty helpful and have probably heard every story in the book.
Plan for Delays (Because They Happen)
Nobody likes sitting at the gate for hours, but flight delays and missed connections are part of life. It’s a good idea to always have enough medication and snacks on you to get through a few hours of unexpected waiting. Set reminders on your phone if time zones might mess with your regular check-ins and doses.
Stay Active, But Don’t Overdo It
Exploring a new city or cozy beach town is half the fun, but long walks or hot weather can sometimes make blood sugar act up. Wear comfortable shoes (trust me, you will thank yourself), pace yourself, and check your numbers a little more often than usual, especially if you’re being more active than you are at home.
Share Your Plan
If you’re traveling solo or even just with a friend, let someone know about your diabetes plan—maybe a traveling companion or the group leader if you’re out with a senior living community. Extra eyes mean extra peace of mind. Scope out what kind of food is available where you’re staying, and maybe look up the nearest pharmacy, just in case.
At the end of the day, diabetes is just one part of your life, not the boss of your adventures. A bit of prep, a dash of flexibility, and those emergency peanut butter crackers can turn any trip into something memorable—blood sugar bumps and all. Safe travels!