Type 1: Going abroad

[Postleneo]

My question to you kind folks is that I plan on going abroad on holiday some time soon and this is the first time going abroad since my diagnosis - I am T1D and obviously need to take my diabetic kit bag, insulin pens etc on the plane. Presumably I need to inform the airline but not sure how to go about this, who else to inform and what if any documentation I need to provide to confirm my condition - any advice would be well appreciated. Thanks

 

[asparagusp]

If you use the search engine here there are many threads on the subject. If travelling within Europe you will need an EHIC card which is free to apply for and you can do it online.

You should get a letter from your GP saying precisely what medication you are on, although in my experience, for flights within the EU, security doesn't ask you for it. I do tell them though I am diabetic and they accept this.

Transporting the medication isn't a problem as you can buy Frio wallets to keep it at the right temperature.but you may not need this if again the are travelling to Europe as it sadly just isn't hot any longer! Having said that extreme cold can cause problems with medication.

 

[isjoberg]

Get a letter from your GP so that you are allowed to take Lucozade or orange juice through security with you! Ask them for insulin passports as well in case your insulin gets lost/breaks so all you need to do is take this card to a pharmacy and they can scan the barcode and get you the right insulin. Travelling is really not a big deal with diabetes I find, as everyone knows what it is and airport security are rarely phased. They are also OK with you using 2 plastic bags if you separate your diabetes liquids from normal ones. Main thing is keeping the insulin cool!

 

[asparagusp]

I 'm assuming the original poster is from the UK! Here is a link to a thread on the insulin passport - http://www.diabetes.co.uk/forum/threads/insulin-passport-whats-your-opinion.32480/

 

[Postleneo]

I 'm assuming the original poster is from the UK!

Sorry - yes I am from the UK and plan to travel to either Paris or New York if that makes a difference

 

[noblehead]

This article from the JDRF covers just about everything:

https://jdrf.org.uk/living-with-type-1/everyday-life/travelling/

 

[asparagusp]

So I don't think you will need a Frio wallet to keep it cool but as I said it might be so cold for your insulin, especially if you carry it whilst you are out and about! I'd speak with a medic.

 

[peterjones6000]

I live in France and went to uk a few weeks ago, no big deal until I realised I had no sharps box, the problems began when I went into Boots to get one, you will know the problems better than me. Over here go into pharmacy and ask they give you immediatley free of charge

 

[Jaylee]

So I don't think you will need a Frio wallet to keep it cool but as I said it might be so cold for your insulin, especially if you carry it whilst you are out and about! I'd speak with a medic.

Blimey! You are "on a roll" tonight.. There is such a thing as changing environmental temperatures when traveling..


To @Postleneo . Just don't allow yer insulin to wind up in the "hold". It don't like to freeze...

 

[asparagusp]

I live in France and went to uk a few weeks ago, no big deal until I realised I had no sharps box, the problems began when I went into Boots to get one, you will know the problems better than me. Over here go into pharmacy and ask they give you immediatley free of charge

Boots is a law unto themselves! I found myself with an unexpected stay in Glasgow and I hadn't got any medication so I went to Boots. I am on the Boots computer in London but not on the Boots computer in Glasgow! zzz

 

[Medusa41]

Hi @Postleneo - yes as others have said - a letter from your GP or DSN - though GPs tend to charge for a letter! Plenty of spares. No need to advise airline. Just a letter for security 'just in case' . Happy travels.

 

[Robinredbreast]

Lots of good, helpful advice from members (the last time I was on holiday abroad was 19 years ago, so procedures have probably changed) Have a great time, also a safe one and a chilled out one too

 

[Jaylee]

Boots is a law unto themselves! I found myself with an unexpected stay in Glasgow and I hadn't got any medication so I went to Boots. I am on the Boots computer in London but not on the Boots computer in Glasgow! zzz

The "protocol" is. No chemist will issue certain "controlled" meds without a script...

 

[Postleneo]

Thanks everyone just made a detailed note to take with me to my next meeting with my Diabetes nurse thanks to you all

 

[asparagusp]

Your're welcome!

 

[Wurst]

Only one tip from me , carry all your medical supplies in your hand luggage. A few weeks ago my suitcase was lost en route to my destination :-( It eventually turned up 24 hours later.