Travelling with Type 1 diabetes gets easier with experience.
But I still check my supplies multiple times before leaving home.
Whether it’s a weekend away, a family holiday or a trip abroad, forgetting something important can turn a relaxing break into a stressful one.
Over the years, I’ve developed a simple checklist that helps me feel more prepared.
I’d rather carry a few extra supplies and not need them than find myself stuck without something important.
Why Preparation Matters
Diabetes doesn’t take a holiday.
Even when you’re relaxing, you still need to think about:
- insulin
- blood sugar levels
- meals
- hypo treatments
- sensors
- equipment
Travelling often means changes in routine, activity levels and food choices, all of which can affect blood sugar.
That’s why preparation is so important.
1. More Insulin Than You Think You’ll Need
My rule is simple.
Take more than you expect to use.
Delays happen. Plans change. Supplies can get lost. Few too many cocktails.
Having spare insulin provides peace of mind.
2. Spare Needles
This sounds obvious until you forget them and have to consider reusing needles.
I’ve become much more careful about carrying extras.
They’re small, lightweight and easy to pack.
Related reading:
Blog – What Happens When You Reuse Insulin Needles?
3. Hypo Treatments
I never travel without low blood sugar supplies.
For me, that means keeping something available in multiple places.
For example:
- hand luggage
- backpack
- hotel room
- When leaving the hotel
Because the worst time to need hypo treatment is when you can’t find it.
Related reading:
Blog – Best Low Blood Sugar Snacks To Keep In Your Car, Bag Or Bedside
4. CGM Supplies
If you use a Libre sensor, it’s worth planning ahead.
Consider:
- spare sensor
- alcohol wipes
- overpatches
The last thing you want is a sensor falling off halfway through your holiday.
Related reading:
Blog – Best CGM Patches That Actually Stay On
5. A Travel Organiser
Keeping everything together makes life much easier.
Instead of searching through different bags, I prefer having diabetes supplies in one dedicated place.
Diabetes travel organiser – Link
6. Prescriptions And Documentation
When travelling abroad, it’s sensible to carry any documentation that may be useful.
This can help explain why you’re carrying insulin, needles or diabetes equipment. I have never had an issue passing though airports personally.
7. Snacks For Unexpected Delays
Flights get delayed.
Traffic happens.
Plans change.
Keeping a few snacks nearby can save a lot of stress and worries.
8. Charging Cables
If you rely on:
- CGMs
- phones
- diabetes apps
Then chargers become surprisingly important.
I always double-check these before leaving.
Travel charging organiser – Link
Power Bank Fast Charging with built-in 4 Cables – Link
9. Keep Supplies In Your Hand Luggage
This is one lesson many travellers learn quickly.
Important diabetes supplies should stay with you whenever possible.
Never assume checked luggage will arrive exactly when you do.
10. Don’t Let Diabetes Stop You Travelling
This might be the most important item on the list.
Travelling with Type 1 diabetes requires planning.
But planning and avoiding travel are not the same thing.
Diabetes may require extra preparation, but it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy holidays, city breaks and family adventures.
What I’ve Learned From Travelling
Every trip teaches you something.
For me, the biggest lesson has been that preparation reduces stress.
When I know I’ve packed everything I need, I spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you fly with insulin?
Yes.
People with diabetes travel with insulin every day.
Always check airline guidance before travelling.
Should insulin go in hand luggage?
Many people prefer keeping insulin in hand luggage so it remains easily accessible. I normally spilt my insulin in case one of my bags gets lost.
How much insulin should I take on holiday?
It’s generally sensible to take more than you expect to need.
Can airport scanners affect Libre sensors?
Current guidance from manufacturers should always be checked before travel.
Final Thoughts
Travelling with Type 1 diabetes takes a bit more preparation than travelling without it.
But once you develop a simple routine, it becomes much easier.
My goal isn’t to pack perfectly.
It’s to make sure I have what I need so I can enjoy the trip without constantly worrying.
A little preparation before you leave home can make a huge difference once you arrive.
Disclaimer
This is based on my personal experience living with Type 1 diabetes. Always consult your healthcare professional before making changes to your diabetes management.
This blog contains affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no extra cost to you.
This article is based on my personal experience living with Type 1 diabetes. Always consult your healthcare professional before making changes to your routine.