Travel Advice

If you are planning a holiday you need to go through this checklist to make sure you have a safe and happy holiday.

Medication

Have enough medication for the whole of your trip and include extra in case you are delayed for a few days.

Have the right vaccinations before you go, check with your practice nurse or GP. It is a good idea to have these done early as they may upset your diabetes control in the short term.

Know what to do if you are travelling across time zones. Discuss this with your GP or diabetes specialist nurse once you have booked your flights, so they can advise you about your medicines.

Carry your medication in your hand luggage to ensure that it arrives with you. If there is more than one person travelling divide medication supplies between you in case some are lost or damaged.

If you are on insulin, you will need a letter from your GP or clinic verifying that you have diabetes so that you can explain at customs why you are carrying syringes and needles.

Insulin should be kept out of direct sunlight and kept cool. Cool bags are available, or find cool storage on your arrival. Insulin should not be allowed to freeze, hence the luggage hold is too cold. Insulin may be absorbed faster in warmer climates so regular blood tests are important to avoid ‘hypos’. It is a good idea to check beforehand with your accommodation where you can store your medication. Diet

Carry some healthy snack foods in your case and also in your hand luggage for long flights.

It is usually better to avoid ‘special diabetic meals’ on the aircraft, as these are often just low in carbohydrate as opposed to being a balanced meal.

In terms of choosing food when abroad, try and stick to the same rules at home about healthy eating (see page 12).

Feet

Make sure that you have comfortable, well fitting shoes in case your feet swell in hot weather.

Avoid going barefoot, particularly in the hot sand and sea. Make sure you do not get sand in your shoes. General

General Health

Carry plenty of bottled water to ensure you drink safe water regularly.

It is a good idea to know how to say, ‘I have diabetes’ in the language of the country you are going to. Carry your diabetes identity card with you.

If you are taken ill while on holiday, never stop your insulin or tablets even if you cannot take solid foods.

It is a good idea to discuss any concerns you have about travelling with your GP or diabetes specialist nurse before travelling.