Traveling with diabetes takes planning but doesn't have to be limiting. Here's the field-tested checklist.
Before you go
### 1. Get a travel letter from your doctor Lists your medications and devices. Useful for TSA, customs, ER access.
### 2. Pack 2x what you need Insulin, test strips, meters, pump supplies, CGM sensors, glucagon. Loss/breakage happens.
### 3. Split your supplies Half in carry-on, half in checked luggage. Never put insulin in the cargo hold (freezes).
### 4. Check time zone changes Plan medication timing in advance with your endocrinologist if crossing 4+ time zones.
### 5. Get travel insurance Make sure it covers pre-existing diabetes and medical evacuation.
At the airport
### 6. CGMs and pumps go through metal detectors, not X-ray Notify security; most have policies for diabetes tech.
### 7. Keep medications in original containers Avoids customs hassles, especially international.
### 8. Bring snacks through security Glucose tabs, nut butter packets, jerky, cheese sticks — all TSA-legal.
On the plane
### 9. Stay hydrated Cabin air is brutally dry. Drink 8 oz per hour minimum.
### 10. Move every 90 minutes Walk the aisle, do calf raises. Reduces clot risk and helps glucose control.
### 11. Adjust insulin for sitting Sedentary hours = higher glucose. Many people need temporary basal adjustments on long flights.
At your destination
### 12. Research local food Carb counts vary by cuisine. Apps and Google translate work for ingredient labels.
### 13. Maintain meal timing roughly Don't skip meals entirely; protein-heavy meals are easier on glucose.
### 14. Walk after meals Sightseeing = exercise. Plan walks after big restaurant meals.
### 15. Know local emergency phrases "I have diabetes," "I need sugar," "I need a hospital" in the local language.
Time zone tips
- Stick to your "home time" insulin schedule for trips of 2 days or less
- For longer trips, gradually shift basal timing 1–2 hours per day
- For pump users, change the pump time when you land
Refrigeration for insulin
- Use a Frio cooling pouch (no ice needed — activated by water)
- Most hotels have mini-fridges; request on booking
- Insulin is OK at room temp (under 86°F) for up to 28 days
- Never freeze insulin (kills potency permanently)
What to do if your insulin pump fails
- Switch to MDI (multiple daily injections) — have a backup pen
- Know your total daily basal dose for emergency basal injection
- Bring a spare pump if possible
- Pump manufacturers usually overnight replacements internationally