Have Diabetes? You can still go on cruises, family vacations, and world travel! You only need to make a little extra effort to prepare for any emergency so that you have a safe and pleasant vacation.
You blood sugar levels can go haywire with a sudden change in physical activity. Hence, before going on a vacation, consult your doctor as well as your medical support team regarding making a change in insulin doses and prescribing extra insulin.
Follow these tips and make way for a pleasant vacation.
Tips for Vacationing With Diabetes
- Pack your supplies in superfluous amount and in several bags.
- In case you are flying, carry the extra supplies in your carry on bag or purse.
- Wear your medical alert bracelet and keep in handy other important medical information.
- Let your family members and friends know the route you are taking.
- Reserve your seat in crowded restaurants in advance to avoid long waits.
- If possible, get nutritional information on the food served by the restaurants.
- Always carry a fruit, or diabetic snack bar, juices, and water with you. It helps in emergencies.
- Keep all the diabetic supplies together in a bag, so that when the need arises, you can reach them at one go.
- Check your blood sugar levels frequently, at least six times a day, when away from home.
- Be prepared for a shift in your blood sugar levels. It is bound to happen due to excitement, heat, and a change in your daily schedule.
- You should also be prepared for dehydration, which may occur due to heat.
- Consume at least 64 ounces or more of water every day in case you are more active or visiting a pool or beach.
- While visiting a water park or theme park, pack your insulin and other diabetic supplies in a waterproof bag to prevent damage. Also take care not to expose the supplies to direct sunlight and do not let them freeze.
- Use ice packs to keep your insulin chilled.
- Keep superfluous test strips and testing meters handy.