Travelling with diabetes can present challenges, but it is by no means impossible. Whether you are going on a short break or travelling the world, there are plenty of steps to take to help you manage your diabetes from anywhere.
Read on for our top tips to help you travel the world with diabetes.
Know Where To Get Essential Medication
Before you leave, it is a good idea to ensure you have a good supply of insulin. If you are going on an extended trip, you should research how you can get more insulin and other medications on each leg of the journey.
Preventing and effectively managing diabetes is the best way of avoiding it. That’s why it would be best if you considered getting a doctor’s note that explains your diagnosis. A naturopathic doctor in Phoenix can help you detect symptoms early on so you won’t have any major problems later down the road. Then, you can show this to officials at the airport and along your travels to help you get the treatment and medications you may need.
Plan Your Meals
It may help to ensure you know when your daily meals will be. You could consider booking accommodation with breakfast included to help get you off on the right foot each day.
When planning a day’s events, ensure you have factored in when you will need to eat and where you can stop along the way to have a meal. Regular meals are crucial for proper diabetes management, and it is essential that you continue your routine while abroad.
Consider Travel Insurance Options
Travel insurance can give you peace of mind that you will be protected if something goes wrong. You should consider researching the types of insurance available and choose one that will cover you with a pre-existing condition.
For an example of what you should be looking for, there are companies like Staysure who offer medical travel insurance to those with pre-existing medical conditions. Consider the different levels of cover carefully to ensure you choose the insurance that will give you all the protection you might require.
Inform People Of Your Needs
It can help to keep those around you informed of your diabetes and any requirements you have. For instance, it can help to inform cabin crew on flights, hotel staff and anyone travelling with you. In addition, it may help to give instructions on how to deal with different situations or carry this information with you. This will ensure that those around you will know what to do as soon as possible if you require assistance.
Carry Snacks
It is a good idea to keep a supply of snacks with you in case of emergencies. The types of snacks will depend on your specific requirements but consider energy bars, glucose sachets and other snacks that will help raise your blood sugar levels if you need to.
Having snacks on hand can be especially helpful if you are exploring unfamiliar areas and find yourself without food at your usual mealtime. They are no substitute for a proper meal but may help tide you over.
Keep Track Of Your Glucose Levels
It may help to take your glucose levels more frequently while travelling. Any change in routine can impact your diabetes, so keeping a close eye on your glucose levels can help prevent unexpected highs or lows. You could consider setting an alarm on your phone to check your glucose at regular intervals, as well as before and after meals.
Conclusion
Travelling with diabetes can be challenging, but the rewards are well worth the effort. You should ensure you plan ahead and know all of the risks and potential issues you may have as your travel, and prepare for every eventuality.
Most importantly, you should remember to have fun and enjoy the experience of travelling!
