Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question? You're not alone. Here are answers to some of the most common questions I receive about traveling with diabetes and using Glucose Getaways resources.
Travel Planning
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I recommend starting at least 2–4 weeks before departure. This gives you time to refill prescriptions, order supplies, and create a backup plan.
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Many travelers with diabetes pack at least twice the supplies they expect to need in case of delays, lost luggage, device issues, or unexpected changes to their travel plans. The amount you should bring may vary based on your individual needs, so consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance before traveling.
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Always pack your diabetes supplies in your carry-on bag. Checked luggage can be lost, delayed, or exposed to extreme temperatures.
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Insulin, diabetes medications, CGM supplies, pump supplies, glucose treatments, prescriptions, chargers, backup supplies, and emergency contact information should always travel with you.
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While not always required, a doctor's letter can be helpful when traveling internationally or carrying medical devices and supplies through security.
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Always bring backup supplies, including extra sensors, infusion sets, insulin pens or syringes, and a plan for managing diabetes manually if necessary. Consider carrying copies of your prescriptions, a list of your medications, and your health insurance information so you have important details readily available if you need medical care or replacement supplies during your trip.
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Yes. Every traveler using a pump should carry backup insulin and a method to administer it if their pump stops working.
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Keep insulin out of extreme heat and freezing temperatures, and follow the storage guidelines provided by the manufacturer of your specific insulin. If you'll be spending extended time outdoors or in hot climates, consider using an insulated travel case. Many hotels can also provide access to a refrigerator, but be careful not to place insulin where it could freeze. If you have questions about storing your insulin while traveling, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
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Consider travel insurance that includes medical coverage, especially for international travel. Review the policy carefully to understand what diabetes-related situations are covered. I Personally use BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions.
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Bring extra supplies, stay hydrated, monitor blood glucose more frequently, and know where to seek medical care at your destination.
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Research hospitals, pharmacies, and emergency services before your trip so you know where to go if a problem arises.
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Not bringing enough supplies. Most experienced travelers with diabetes will tell you that packing extra supplies is one of the most important things you can do.
Diabetes Management
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Travel can introduce changes in routine, activity levels, meal timing, sleep schedules, stress, and time zones, all of which may affect blood sugar levels. Because everyone's situation is different, discuss your travel plans and any concerns with your healthcare provider before your trip.
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Changes to insulin or medication schedules can depend on your destination, travel itinerary, and individual medical needs. If you're traveling across time zones or have questions about your routine, consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance before departure.
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Many travelers choose to monitor their blood sugar more closely when away from home, especially when routines, meals, activity levels, or time zones change. The approach that's right for you should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
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Travel can sometimes affect blood sugar patterns. If you notice significant or persistent changes, follow the guidance provided by your healthcare team and seek medical attention if needed. Consider discussing a travel management plan with your provider before your trip.
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Many travelers choose to bring backup supplies such as a blood glucose meter, test strips, batteries, chargers, and other equipment they rely on for diabetes management. The supplies that are appropriate for you may vary based on your treatment plan and medical needs.
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Sightseeing, walking, hiking, swimming, and other activities may affect blood sugar differently from your normal routine. Because responses can vary from person to person, discuss activity-related considerations with your healthcare provider.
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New foods, portion sizes, meal timing, and local cuisines may affect blood sugar levels differently. If you have questions about managing diabetes while exploring new foods, speak with your healthcare provider or diabetes care team before your trip.
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Illness can affect diabetes management and blood sugar levels. Before traveling, consider discussing sick-day planning with your healthcare provider and know how to access medical care at your destination if needed.
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Many travelers with diabetes choose to carry medical identification and emergency contact information in case of an emergency. Consider discussing the options available to you with your healthcare provider.
Air Travel
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Many travelers with diabetes carry insulin, medications, and medical supplies in their carry-on luggage. Security procedures and requirements can vary by country and airport, so consider reviewing current guidelines before your trip. If you have questions about traveling with specific medications or supplies, consult your healthcare provider.
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Many travelers choose to inform security personnel that they are carrying diabetes supplies or wearing a medical device. Security procedures can vary, so consider reviewing airport and airline guidance before traveling.
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Diabetes medications, supplies, and medical devices should be packed in your carry-on luggage, not checked baggage. Checked luggage can be delayed, lost, exposed to extreme temperatures, or become inaccessible during travel disruptions. Consider discussing your travel plans with your healthcare provider to ensure you have the supplies and backup equipment appropriate for your individual needs.
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Airport security rules may vary by country and can change over time. Consider reviewing current regulations before traveling and discussing any concerns with your healthcare provider if you rely on specific treatments.
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Many travelers choose to carry a list of medications, copies of prescriptions, healthcare provider contact information, and health insurance details. Requirements may vary depending on your destination and circumstances.
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Recommendations can vary by device manufacturer and model. Before traveling, review the guidance provided by the manufacturer of your specific device and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider if needed.
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Security procedures may vary. Many travelers find it helpful to be familiar with current airport security guidelines and the manufacturer's recommendations for their devices before arriving at the airport.
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Changes in routine, meal timing, activity levels, stress, and travel schedules may affect blood sugar levels for some individuals. Because responses can vary, discuss travel-related concerns with your healthcare provider before your trip.
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Yes. Essential medications, diabetes supplies, and medical devices should remain with you and be easily accessible throughout your journey. Travel plans can change unexpectedly, so avoid placing critical items in checked luggage. Consult your healthcare provider regarding the supplies and backup equipment that are appropriate for your individual needs.
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Unexpected delays can happen. Many travelers choose to bring additional medications, supplies, snacks, and low blood sugar treatments in case travel plans change. The amount that's right for you may vary based on your individual needs.
International Travel
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Traveling across time zones may affect medication schedules for some individuals. Because treatment plans and travel itineraries vary, consult your healthcare provider before your trip for personalized guidance.
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Many travelers choose to carry copies of prescriptions, a list of medications, and healthcare provider contact information. Having this information readily available may be helpful if medical care or replacement supplies are needed during your trip.
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Regulations can vary by country. Before traveling, review the entry requirements for your destination and ensure you have any necessary documentation for medications, medical devices, and supplies.
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Many travelers consider travel medical insurance when traveling internationally, particularly if their regular health insurance has limited coverage outside their home country. Review your coverage and discuss any concerns with your insurance provider before departure.
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Many travelers find it helpful to research local hospitals, pharmacies, emergency numbers, and healthcare facilities before arriving at their destination. Consider discussing emergency planning with your healthcare provider before your trip.
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If supplies are lost, damaged, or unexpectedly run low, having copies of prescriptions, a medication list, healthcare provider contact information, and insurance details may help when seeking medical assistance or replacement supplies. Availability can vary by country.
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Many travelers choose to carry a written or digital list of their medications, medical devices, dosages, and emergency contacts. Consider discussing what information may be most important for your situation with your healthcare provider.
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Some travelers find it helpful to carry translated medical information, medication names, or emergency phrases for their destination. Translation apps and written medical information may also be useful when communicating with healthcare providers abroad.
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Temperature, humidity, and other environmental conditions may affect certain medications, devices, and supplies. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific products and consult your healthcare provider if you have questions about traveling to a particular climate.
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Some travelers choose to register international trips with their government's travel program to receive destination updates and emergency assistance information. Requirements and services vary by country.
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Many travelers find it helpful to research hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies before arriving at their destination. Your hotel, travel insurance provider, embassy, or local tourism office may also be able to assist with locating English-speaking medical professionals if needed.
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Prescription availability, medication names, and pharmacy regulations can vary significantly by country. Many travelers choose to bring enough medication and supplies for their trip, along with copies of prescriptions and a list of medications. If you have concerns about medication access abroad, consult your healthcare provider and insurance provider before traveling.
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Requirements for carrying medications and medical supplies can vary by country. Before traveling, review the entry requirements for your destination and any countries you'll transit through. Many travelers choose to carry insulin in its original packaging, along with copies of prescriptions or other supporting documentation. If you have questions about traveling with insulin internationally, consult your healthcare provider and review the guidance provided by the relevant government authorities.
Safety & Emergencies
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Before traveling, consider discussing emergency preparedness with your healthcare provider. Many travelers choose to carry fast-acting glucose, emergency contact information, and any emergency medications recommended by their healthcare team. If you experience a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.
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Lost or stolen supplies can be stressful. Many travelers choose to carry backup supplies, copies of prescriptions, a list of medications, and healthcare provider contact information in case replacements are needed. Consider discussing a backup plan with your healthcare provider before traveling.
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Many travelers choose to carry emergency contact information, health insurance details, and important medical information in both digital and physical formats. Consider discussing what information may be most helpful for your situation with your healthcare provider.
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Many travelers with diabetes choose to wear medical identification or carry a medical information card that can help first responders understand their medical condition during an emergency.
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Device issues can happen unexpectedly. Many travelers choose to carry backup supplies and alternative diabetes management tools when away from home. Consider discussing contingency plans with your healthcare provider before your trip.
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Before traveling internationally, many travelers research local hospitals, emergency numbers, and healthcare facilities at their destination. Travel medical insurance may also provide assistance locating medical care if needed.
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Unexpected delays can occur due to weather, transportation issues, or schedule changes. Many travelers choose to carry extra medications, supplies, snacks, and low blood sugar treatments in case they are away from their destination longer than expected.
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Many travelers discuss contingency plans with their healthcare provider before departure. Backup plans may include alternative methods for managing diabetes, emergency contact information, and access to replacement supplies if needed.
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Illness may affect diabetes management differently for each individual. Before traveling, consider discussing sick-day planning with your healthcare provider and know how to access medical care at your destination if needed.
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Many travelers choose to carry emergency contact information, health insurance details, medication lists, prescription information, healthcare provider contact information, and any medical documentation they may need while traveling.
♡ Our Mission & Impact
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Glucose Getaways is a travel resource for people living with diabetes. We provide destination guides, travel planning tools, checklists, and educational resources designed to help travelers with diabetes explore the world with greater confidence.
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Glucose Getaways was created to help bridge the gap between diabetes and travel. Many people dream of exploring the world but feel overwhelmed by the challenges of traveling with a medical condition. Through guides, resources, and real-world experiences, we aim to make travel feel more accessible and less intimidating.
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Glucose Getaways was founded by a Type 1 diabetic traveler who understands firsthand the challenges of managing diabetes while exploring new destinations. The resources on this site are inspired by personal experiences, lessons learned, and a passion for helping others travel with confidence.
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No. Glucose Getaways is not a medical organization and does not provide medical advice. The information on this site is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your individual medical needs, medications, devices, and travel plans.
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We provide destination guides, travel resources, planning tools, checklists, and educational content designed to help travelers feel more prepared before, during, and after their trips. Our goal is to share practical travel knowledge while encouraging travelers to seek personalized medical guidance from their healthcare team.
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Our mission is to empower people with diabetes to explore the world with greater confidence by providing practical travel resources, education, and inspiration.
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Yes. Glucose Getaways is committed to supporting the diabetes community through both personal contributions from the founder and donations funded by a percentage of eligible sales. These contributions help support diabetes-related causes with the goal of making a positive impact beyond travel resources alone.
As Glucose Getaways grows, our vision is to expand these efforts by creating the Glucose Getaways Travel Assistance Fund—a program designed to help individuals with diabetes take their first trip or pursue travel experiences they may not have thought possible.
While this initiative remains a long-term goal, our mission remains the same: to help people with diabetes travel more confidently, explore more freely, and live more fully.
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In addition to creating travel resources, Glucose Getaways is committed to supporting the diabetes community through education, awareness, and initiatives that help people pursue experiences they may have once thought were out of reach.
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Absolutely. While Glucose Getaways was created with people living with diabetes in mind, many of our travel guides, destination resources, planning tools, and travel tips can be useful for any traveler. Family members, caregivers, spouses, friends, and travel companions may also find value in understanding the unique challenges that can come with traveling with diabetes.
Most resources contain diabetes-specific information that may not apply to every traveler, but much of the travel guidance and destination content can be enjoyed by anyone looking to travel more confidently and explore the world.
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We believe travel should be accessible to everyone. By creating resources specifically designed for travelers with diabetes, sharing real-world experiences, supporting the diabetes community, and investing in future initiatives, we hope to make travel more approachable, less stressful, and more inclusive for people living with diabetes.
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Travel Confidently. Live Fully. reflects the belief that diabetes should not define what is possible. While preparation and planning are important, our goal is to help travelers feel empowered to pursue meaningful experiences, create lasting memories, and embrace the journey.
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The Resources section of Glucose Getaways contains travel tips, planning tools, destination guides, checklists, and educational information designed to help travelers feel more prepared and confident when exploring the world with diabetes.
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Every traveler and every trip is different. The information provided on Glucose Getaways is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. For questions specific to your health, medications, devices, or treatment plan, consult your healthcare provider. If you have questions about Glucose Getaways, our resources, or travel planning in general, feel free to reach out through our Contact page.