Vacations and Camps with Type 1 Diabetes
Planning a vacation or going to camp can be exciting! But if you have type 1 diabetes, a little extra planning can make your trip smooth and worry-free.
Planning for Travel
- Packing Essentials: Insulin, blood sugar and ketone strips, glucagon, and CGM sensors must be kept in a plastic bag in a cooler if you’re traveling by car. They can spoil if they get too hot (above 90° F or 32° C) or freeze.
- Meter Tips: If your meter has been in a cold place, let it warm up to room temperature before checking your blood sugar.
- Car Travel: Sitting for long periods in the car can sometimes make your blood sugar higher. Your doctor might suggest giving extra insulin if needed.
- Airplane Travel: Always carry insulin and supplies in your carry-on bag, not in checked luggage. Make sure insulin has its pharmacy label, and keep glucagon in its original container. Security shouldn’t be a problem for diabetes supplies, but avoid putting pumps and CGMs on x-ray belts.
- Extra Supplies: Pack extra snacks like sugar tablets or granola bars in case food is delayed or not available.
Time Changes and Insulin:
- Within the U.S.: Time changes usually aren’t a big deal, but if you’re traveling overseas, talk to your doctor. They can help adjust your insulin if time zones change.
- Insulin Pumps: If you wear a pump and fly, changes in altitude might affect how much insulin you need. Your doctor may adjust your pump settings for these changes.
Activities and Adjusting Insulin:
- Vacation Fun: If you’re doing lots of activities like swimming, hiking, or playing at an amusement park, you might need less insulin. Talk to your doctor about adjusting your doses.
Diabetes (and Non-Diabetes) Camps:
- Fun and Learning: Diabetes camps are awesome! They’re a chance to meet other kids with diabetes and learn more about managing it. Doctors and nurses are there to help keep everyone safe.
- Non-Diabetes Camps: If you’re going to a regular camp, make sure the staff knows about diabetes. They should be ready to handle lows, highs, and any other diabetes needs.
Going on vacation or to camp with diabetes might need a bit more planning, but it can still be lots of fun.