Travel Tips for People with Diabetes

Travel Successfully with Diabetes

Packing for vacation can be a snap--even for people with diabetes (PWDs). The key is to be prepared, says Davida Kruger, APRN, BC-ADM, author of The Diabetes Travel Guide (American Diabetes Association, 2006). "Think about it ahead of time. Don't just show up."

Amy Tenderich, PWD type 1, is a firm believer in being prepared. As creator and editor of DiabetesMine (diabetesmine.com), she travels often. Tenderich packs her diabetes gear before she packs her clothes so she's less likely to forget something. She uses an insulin pump and always packs more supplies than she needs.

"You never know when your pump is going to poop out or your lancet is going to break--what are you going to do? Stab yourself with a kitchen knife?" she says. Even for an overnight escape, never underestimate the need for backup.

Here are more packing tips for a smooth, diabetes-smart journey.