You should wear or take some form of medical ID, such as a bracelet or identity card. If you need medical help while you’re away, this will show medical staff that you have diabetes.
If you use medication such as insulin or tablets, you should take twice as much medication and related supplies as you normally need to cover your time away
Don't forget to take:
- a basic first aid kit, in case of minor injuries
- a copy of your travel insurance documents, in case you need medical help while you’re away
- if you’re travelling in Europe, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which entitles you to free or reduced-cost healthcare
Planning before you go
- You may need to make an appointment to see your diabetes team or GP before your trip. Their advice can help you avoid health problems while you’re away. Not all patients need to do this. It depends on where you're going and how good your glycaemic control is.
- If you are travelling across time zones, and you take insulin, you may need to change when or how often you take it.
- Hot or cold climates can affect how blood glucose monitors and insulin work. You may need to adjust your dosage or check your blood glucose levels more often.
- You may also need to adjust your diet or insulin dosage if you’ll be more or less active than usual while you’re away.
- Diarrhoea or sickness can be more serious if you have diabetes. Get advice on what to do if you’re ill while you’re away.
- You may need travel vaccinations.
When you take out your travel insurance, remember to declare that you have diabetes.
Getting there
Following the tips below can help your journey to run smoothly:
- Check your blood glucose levels regularly.
- Carry all your insulin in your hand luggage. If you pack spare insulin in your suitcase, it may freeze in the plane’s cargo hold and become unusable. Liquid restrictions at airports exclude any essential medicines or liquids a diabetic may need, but all items should go in a clear 20cm square plastic bag for security screening.
- You need to eat regularly, so take some extra food or snacks with you, in case of delays on your journey. You could also take some diet or sugar-free drinks, as well as some sweeteners.
- You can eat standard airline meals. You don’t need to ask for special diabetic meals.
- Wear well-fitting, comfortable shoes in case your feet swell.
When you get there
- Keep insulin in a cool, dark place and out of direct sunlight.
- Avoid walking barefoot. Look after your feet and check them regularly. Seek medical advice if you have any problems.
Read the answers to more questions about travel health.
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