MSU Extension Diabetes

Traveling can be an exciting and fun experience for children. While this experience is valuable, many parents of children with diabetes worry about taking their children on trips. Being prepared can help ensure a safe and stress-free time. You can start preparations by keeping on top of regular doctor’s appointments to help avoid complications when traveling and give you an opportunity to discuss any concerns with your child’s health care team. Depending on your child’s age, allowing them to help with trip planning and managing their diabetes care while traveling can also help them build independence.

If you are flying, it is understandable to worry about bringing medical supplies through security screenings. Rest assured that security agents are familiar with the importance of these items and have screened many people with diabetes before.   Arriving early and being adequately prepared can help ease these worries. It may help to talk with your child about what to expect when they arrive at the airport.

Here are a few steps The American Diabetes Association recommends that you can take to help your child make the most of your adventure:

• Always keep your child’s diabetes medical supplies with you wherever you go. Keeping these supplies on you can help in unplanned circumstances and allow for more spontaneous fun on your trip.
• Always pack extra diabetes supplies to cover any unplanned extra events or travel days.
• Keep a note from your child’s doctor stating that your child has diabetes. This note should also list any medication or supplies they use to manage their diabetes and any allergies to foods or medicine.
• Take snacks with you wherever you go. This can help keep blood glucose stable. You should have a supply of foods that can boost blood glucose in case of hypoglycemia such as hard candy, raisins, juice or glucose tablets.
• Bring any emergency contact information you may need and always make sure your child wears their medical ID.
• Adjust medication timing according to time zones and eating schedules. It may be helpful to set alarms to remind you of the correct time to take medications.
• Make sure insulin is stored at the right temperature. Insulin should not be stored in very hot or cold temperatures, so do not leave it in a hot car, direct sunlight, or directly on an ice pack.
• Make sure to move around when you can. Diabetes can increase the risk of blood clots, so make sure your child gets out of the car or walks up and down the aisle of the plane every few hours.
• Check blood sugar often. Changes in routine can make it hard to tell if blood sugar is outside of its normal range.
• Keep an eye on the temperature. Very hot or cold weather can affect blood sugar. If you are traveling somewhere hot, make sure to bring enough water and take breaks in the shade.
• Make sure your child wears comfortable shoes. Vacations can often involve lots of walking, so be sure to check for any blisters, cuts or swelling on their feet.

If you’re traveling by air, you may want to consider taking a few extra steps:

• Review the TSA’s website for the most up to date information before your trip.
• Pack diabetes medications and supplies in a clear and sealable bag and declare these items to security. People with diabetes may bring medications or other liquids over 3.4 ounces through security checkpoints.
• Inform TSA agents about insulin pumps, glucose monitors, or other medical devices attached to your child’s body.
• Store medication and any medical supplies in their original packaging and keep the labels on any bottled medication.  While this is not required by the TSA, it can make your security process smoother.
• Keep medications, supplies, and snacks in an easily accessible spot during your flight.
• Don’t keep insulin or temperature sensitive supplies in a checked bag, as temperatures in the cargo hold can vary.
• Not sure about a specific item? The American Diabetes Association has a list of diabetes related medical equipment that is allowed through security. The TSA also has a list of all medical equipment that is allowed, with details about screening procedures for these items.

Having diabetes or caring for someone with diabetes should not deter you from traveling. Taking these extra precautions can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for your whole family.

For the best diabetes care and nutrition advice always check with your healthcare team. For additional information check out MSU Extension's resources on diabetes.