Travel can and should be fun and having diabetes doesn’t mean your traveling days are over. With good planning, there’s no reason why your trip won’t be safe, fun and hassle-free whether it be a car trip within Australia or overseas.
WHAT PLANNING TIPS DO YOU HAVE?
• Try to pack more medication, test strips, insulin and syringes than you will need for the entire trip and, if possible, a spare meter in case of loss or damage.
• Take clearly written details of your next of kin or family member plus your National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) card just in case.
• If you are taking insulin or diabetes tablets, carry some form of quick acting carbohydrate, such as glucose tablets or jelly beans in case of a ‘hypo’.
• If flying, keep medications, syringes, testing equipment and 80% of your insulin within easy reach in your hand luggage. Pack the rest of your insulin in your luggage for the aircraft hold.
• Insulin is stable at room temperature under 30 degrees but will be damaged by temperature extremes so must not be frozen or left in the sun or heat for any length of time. If you are likely to be in very hot or cold places, small insulated bags can be bought from Diabetes Australia.
• Wear some form of identification that says you have diabetes.
• Take a small approved sharps container (available from Diabetes Australia or your pharmacy) for your used lancets and syringes and dispose of it when you come across a disposal service. Many hotels and most airports offer this service.
• When travelling long distances, try to take regular meal breaks and some form of physical activity.
• The excitement of the trip may affect your blood glucose levels, so check your levels more often. If you’re using insulin, know how to adjust the dose and always have a ‘hypo pack’ with you.
• Carry a small first aid kit with you in case of aches and pains, minor cuts and bruises.
• Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes. If you plan to get new shoes for your trip, buy them well in advance and ‘wear them in’ so they’re just right for your trip.
WHAT ABOUT OVERSEAS TRAVEL?
If you’re planning a trip overseas, you may need to think about vaccinations, allowing for different foods, how to cope with changes in time zone and extreme climates as well as being prepared for mishaps such as delays and misplaced baggage. Here a few tips about how to have a hassle-free trip.
BEFORE YOU GO
Planning is the key to smooth sailing (or flying) during your travels. There are many things to consider before you leave, such as airline regulations, a well-timed itinerary, in-flight needs and being prepared for that ‘what-if’ situation.
Complying With Airline Security Regulations
Be sure to make arrangements in advance so that you comply with Australian air regulations for people with diabetes. These are:
• All diabetes supplies including testing equipment, insulin and Glucagon delivery devices (syringes and pen needles) must be carried in your hand luggage, with extra insulin packed in your luggage for the aircraft hold.
• Your name must appear on all insulin and/or Glucagon script labels.
• Carry scripts for all medications (and check them before you go to make sure they are readable). Each script must include your name, the name and type of your medication and your doctor’s contact details.
• Carry several copies of a letter from your doctor (check that it’s readable) outlining your medical conditions, the medications you take and the devices you use for your insulin and blood glucose testing, such as insulin pens, syringes and needles or pump unit. You will need this letter to get through Customs. It should also stress the importance of carrying your medications with you.
If you are not travelling with an Australian carrier, be sure to check with the airline in advance for specific security guidelines.
Making Your Bookings
• Try to arrange for arrival and departure at times of the day that suit you and allow plenty of time for your travel connections.
• When booking your flights you may choose to tell the airline you have diabetes. This will be passed on to the cabin crew who are trained in meeting your needs during the flights.
• In general, ‘diabetic’ meals served in-flight can be quite bland and no longer necessary. However you may choose to order meals which are low in saturate fat and high in fibre and carbohydrate at the time you make your bookings.
Staying Well During Your Travels
• Discuss your travel plans and the papers you will need to comply with airline regulations with your diabetes health professional. Also discuss your medication, insulin adjustments, Glucagon and other tablets such as anti-diarrhoea and/or nausea just in case.
• During long hauls, support hose or socks can help to prevent swelling and may reduce the risk of clotting in the veins of the legs. Check first with your diabetes health professional if this is okay for you.
• Information regarding vaccinations can be obtained from your doctor or specialized travel medical centres. Helpful websites are the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Australian Department of Health and Ageing.
Coping With Changing Time Zones
• If your planned trip has different time zones, discuss this too. What you do will depend on your medications and/or your type of insulin. Your diabetes health professional may advise you to follow your normal routine until you stop travelling, have a long sleep and then start from scratch when you wake up. On the other hand, you may be given special instructions about any medication or insulin changes you may need.
Making The Most Of Travel Insurance
• You should have travel insurance, both for your health and your belongings. Make sure you accident and health cover applies both to pre-existing conditions and the places you will visit. Contact Diabetes Australia for more information.
• The Australian Government has arrangements with a range of countries providing travellers with benefits similar to Medicare if needed, but only for acute or emergency care. Call the Health Insurance Commission on 13 20 11 or visit their website for information. And don’t forget to pack your Medicare card.
AT THE AIRPORT
• Arrive early to avoid rushing
• As mentioned, Australian security regulations require you to carry your diabetes supplies including insulin in your hand luggage. (Remember to pack an emergency supply in your luggage which goes into the aircraft hold). Once you’ve passed through Customs, split your diabetes supplies into two separate bags in case one goes missing. Unless you’re travelling alone, it’s a good idea to give one bag to your travelling partner.
• It is considered unlikely that insulin would be harmed by exposure to x-rays in security equipment. However, if you are concerned, you may ask airport security staff to physically check you and your baggage rather than you and your baggage going through the x-ray equipment. Security staff members are obliged to respond to such a request under regulations administered by the Department of Transport and Regional Services, the responsible Federal agency.
DURING THE FLIGHT
• You may decide to tell the flight attendant at the start of the trip that you have diabetes, so your needs are well catered for. However, this is personal choice.
• Don’t take your insulin injection until your food is served in case of delay, and carry extra food such as dried fruit or biscuits just in case.
• Avoid alcohol
• Drink plenty of water
• When possible, sleep. Ask the cabin crew to wake you for meals.
• Wear comfortable shoes and exercise your feet to help stop swelling.
• Move around the cabin as often as you can by walking up and down the aisle to help circulation and keep your blood glucose levels under control.
WHAT IF SOMETHING GOES WRONG WHILE I’M AWAY?
With all that planning this is most unlikely. However, don’t panic – seek medical assistance when required, with advice from your travel insurer if possible. Most costs can be recovered through health benefits or through your own medical insurance when you get home.
With careful planning and taking a few precautions, there is no reason why your diabetes should stop you having a trip that is hassle-free and memorable. Enjoy and bon voyage!
About The Author:
Diabetes Australia Victoria is the peak consumer body representing people with diabetes in Victoria and providing vital support and information to the community about diabetes. To find out more about Diabetes Australia Victoria please click here
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