Before you travel with a person who has diabetes, you should take some time to prepare. Prior to departure, you should recommend that the person sees his doctor for a regular check-up and to let the doctor know that he will be traveling. During that visit, your traveling companion should request a letter that explains his medications and supplies, and lists any allergies. You should request a copy of the letter to keep with your belongings.
Step 1
Arrive at the airport early. Due to security regulations, screening the diabetic person's medical supplies can take a long time at the airport checkpoints. All medicines should have a prescription label with the patient's name that matches the name on her airline ticket. Before boarding, find out when and if a meal will be served.
Step 2
Print out a medication schedule for the diabetic person. If you are changing time zones during your trip, he may need to adjust his medication schedule accordingly.
Step 3
Give your traveling companion a medical bracelet to wear. She should wear the bracelet at all times during your travels to ensure that she is identified as diabetic in case of a medical emergency. The bracelet should contain your phone number as an emergency contact.
Step 4
Review the medical supplies he has packed. Your companion should pack double the amount of diabetes control supplies needed, his insurance card, low blood glucose tablets and a first aid kit.
Step 5
Keep the medications with the person at all times. Do not store them in the trunk, glove compartment or airplane overhead compartment. Avoid placing them near a window or in direct sunlight.
Step 6
Remind the diabetic person to move around every couple of hours. Get her moving to prevent blood clots.
Step 7
Monitor the meals. Use only bottled water while traveling, even when brushing teeth. Peel all fruits and eat only cooked vegetables. Only consume pasteurized dairy.
Tips and Warnings
- Remember to scout out local hospitals and their phone numbers when you are traveling with a diabetic person.
