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7 Diabetes Travel Tips

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If you suffer from certain health conditions like diabetes then planning for a Diabetes Travel Tips may be a tedious task because untimely meals, excessive physical activity, skipping medications and dehydration can cause drastic changes in the blood glucose level. 

So, most of the people who are prone to diabetes sacrifice their travel to keep up with their health. But this is not required, instead, you can make some plans to keep your diabetes in check by following some travel tips to enjoy the journeys and pleasant trips to the fullest. 

7 Diabetes Travel Tips

Travelling to explore new places means stepping out of your comfort zone and adjusting to a new routine. So, planning ahead can cut down on your worries significantly.

Here are a few tips to ensure you have a healthy travel in the time to come:

Carry an Updated Prescription

The first and foremost thing after booking your travel tickets is to visit your doctor to ensure that you are fit for the trip or not for Diabetes Travel Tips. This can create an opportunity for the doctors to help you plan wisely.

Always carry a few prints of your recent prescription along with any investigations done during the last 3 months because these documents can be life-saving in case of any emergency medical conditions. If you plan to travel abroad, get a doctor’s note explaining your medications and conditions for hassle-free security checks for Diabetes Travel Tips.

Carry Medications

Ensure to carry adequate medications at least twice the count of medicines and insulin as you usually need.  It is always a good idea to be over prepared than underprepared, especially when you have planned a trip. 

Always keep your medications and supplies handy. If you are travelling by flight, then do keep these in your carry-on luggage or backpack but not in check-in baggage. Never store insulin especially in checked luggage because it may get exposed to extreme temperatures in Diabetes Travel Tips.

Diabetes Travel Tips

Include a Glucometer in your medicine kit 

You should monitor your blood sugar levels, especially during travel. Always include a glucometer in your medicine kit. Additionally, carry extra batteries and glucometer strips. When you are travelling long-distance, carry a small bag to have easy access to your glucometer test strips, syringes, insulin, and fast-acting glucose along with some snacks.

Pack healthy snacks along 

Carry small healthy snacks with you to avoid sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. Healthy snacking at frequent intervals will regulate blood sugar levels and not cause a sudden spike. Have small, or frequent meals instead of three big meals in a day. Stock your baggage with nuts, seeds, yogurt, fruits, veggies and dip, sandwiches, and salads to be on the safer side.

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Keep Yourself Moving

When you take a long flight or train or bus journey, make sure to keep yourself moving by doing simple stretching exercises. When you reach your travel destination, include a morning walk to avoid unnecessary weight gain and prevent further complications. 

Also, wear comfortable shoes or sandals to allow your foot to breathe. Picking comfortable socks or stockings during the trip is not at all a bad idea.

Keep Yourself Hydrated

Drink more water and fresh juices to keep you hydrated throughout the day. Avoid sweetened teas/ coffee, and other carbonated drinks which may cause spikes in blood sugar levels. Outings can also be for a family get-together or a break with friends, in such cases, alcohol or booze can also be an indulgence.

 However, if you are a diabetic person, then better stave off alcoholic drinks as they may affect your blood glucose level and may put you at risk of major complications in an unknown place. This will not only complicate your health but will also spoil your entire trip, so beware.

Carry Comfortable Footwear

Diabetics are a major prone to infections and foot problems, it is vital to pick the right footwear and comfortable shoes along when travelling. Whenever you step out, make sure to wear good footwear because of Diabetes Travel Tips. Do not walk bare feet on the beach as it could lead to foot complications.

The secret to any successful trip for a diabetic person involves a lot of planning as it might include double the time and effort. But to cherish the memories and overload the fun with your family and friends when travelling, little planning is all you need to relax and enjoy your trip.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When traveling with diabetes, it is important to know diabetes travel tips, start packing extra supplies such as insulin, syringes, test strips, and glucose tablets. It is also recommended to bring a doctor’s note, a travel letter explaining your medical condition and supplies, and a copy of your prescriptions. Take healthy snacks and water, and wear comfortable shoes.

Traveling can affect diabetes by disrupting meal and sleep schedules, causing stress, and changing activity levels. Time zone changes can also affect medication schedules. It is important for people with diabetes to know diabetes travel tips, bring extra supplies, monitor blood sugar regularly, and make adjustments as needed with the help of a healthcare provider.

Insulin should be kept cool when traveling to maintain its effectiveness. One way to do this is to use an insulated cooler bag or pouch with ice packs or frozen gel packs. Another option is to use a specialized insulin cooling case or travel refrigerator. It is important to know these diabetes travel tips for a smooth journey.