How to Prepare a Diabetes Travel Pack

According to the American Diabetes Association, in 2009 nearly 8 percent of the US population (23.6 million people) were diabetic. With improved medical treatments and better knowledge of how to control and manage the condition, many diabetics are able to travel and engage in activities that in decades past were unavailable to them. Preparing a diabetes travel pack is imperative for diabetics who wish to travel.

Instructions

• 1

  Consider the intended length of trip and then prepare for any unavoidable extensions when packing the diabetes travel pack. If traveling by car, prepare the kit as though the diabetic traveler will be gone for one additional day. If traveling by air, prepare the kit as though the diabetic traveler will be gone for three additional days.

• 2

  Ensure that all supplies in the diabetes travel pack are included in sufficient amounts and have not expired. Ample syringes and test strips, a backup glucose monitor and insulin properly stored for transportation should be a standard part of the kit.

• 3

  Keep a medical information list for the diabetic in the travel pack. Carry readily accessible medical history in case of hospitalization while away from home. Include the name and contact information of the physician who treats the diabetic and family emergency contact numbers. Include any medical ID cards and make sure the diabetic's current prescriptions and medication supply are within the kit.

• 4

  Include extra batteries in the diabetes travel pack. Always take into consideration that a pharmacy or supermarket run may not be possible, especially if traveling by air, so carry an extra set of batteries for the diabetic's glucose meter (or insulin pump if a portable unit is used and requires them).

• 5

  Pack small edible items or glucose in pill form, which will quickly reverse a low blood-sugar reaction. For extreme reactions resulting in unconsciousness or inability to swallow the pill, a glucagon emergency kit from a pharmacy is invaluable. Include written, concise and easily understood instructions for its utilization if the diabetic is not traveling with someone who specifically knows how to administer it.

• 6

  Set a small digital travel alarm unit with a noticeable but nonintrusive ring into the diabetes travel pack to remind the diabetic to continue regular eating habits when traveling. Program it to ring every 4 hours and place it next to the small prepackaged snack items within the kit for those who need a quick reminder to keep their blood sugar at stable levels during air or cruise travel.