Planning a Holiday

Planning a holiday for diabetics

When you plan a holiday, be sure to plan ahead. Plan for changes in meal patterns, time zones and increased or decreased activity.

Before you leave for holiday

• Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your travel plans.
• Get extra prescriptions and a letter from your doctor explaining that you have diabetes.
• If you need immunization shots, plan to get them three to four weeks before your holiday.

Some of these shots can upset your blood glucose levels.

When you travel

• 1. Bring your doctor’s name and phone number and keep it with you at all times.
• 2. Bring a list of current medications and keep it with you at all times.
• 3. Always carry and wear medical identification that states you have diabetes.
• 4. Keep medications, syringes and blood glucose testing supplies in your hand luggage. Do not check these supplies with your luggage, in case your luggage is lost. Remember the cargo hold is not heated or insulated well, so medication and supplies can be damaged.
• 5. Take extra medications and medical supplies to last an extra week in case you get stranded or stay longer than you planned.
• 6. Have a traveling companion carry some of your medical supplies, if possible.
• 7. Always carry some type of sugar source.
• 8. Inform the airlines and cruise ships in advance that you have diabetes. Most airlines and cruise ships will provide special meals.
• 9. Test your blood glucose more often than usual. Changes in meal patterns, activity levels and time zones can affect your blood glucose.

If you are taking insulin

If you are traveling on an airplane and an injection time is during your flight, follow your normal procedure. There is one difference. Put only 1/2 as much air into your insulin bottle as you normally would. The pressure is different in the airplane than on the ground. Time zone changes of two or more hours may mean you need to change your injection schedule. Check with your doctor for special instructions.

Keep your insulin at room temperature (between 33 degrees F and 80 degrees F). Do not freeze your insulin or keep it in direct sun.

Foot care while you travel

• Pack at least two pairs of shoes so you can change shoes often. Changing shoes helps prevent blisters and sore pressure points.
• Pack comfortable shoes, socks and a first aid kit to treat minor foot injuries.
• Do not go barefoot. Instead, wear shoes that are specially made for ocean or beach walking. Protect your feet at all times when you are walking by the pool, in the park, on the beach or swimming in the ocean.
• Do not wear open-toed shoes including sandals, flip-flops or others (you increase your risk for injury and infection when your toes are exposed).
• Follow your daily foot care regime.

Traveling check list.

We have prepared a check list which will make planning your holiday much easier. To use it click on the link below to open the check list in a new window. If you have a printer you make want to print out the check list so you easily tick off each item as you go.

Other important points

• Allow plenty of time so as not to rush and cause unwanted stress.
• Try to rest often while traveling and drink plenty of water if permitted. ( Drinking water may be unsafe in many countries, carry bottled water wherever possible)
• Walk while traveling to get in your needed exercise.
• Keep insulin in a cool dry place, away from sunlight.
• If possible try not to travel alone, particularly on long trips or when traveling out of your state or country of origin.
• Carry your medication, syringes, and supplies for testing with you in a small suitcase. Try not to check-in this particular suitcase.