Holidays with diabetes

Going on holiday with type 1 diabetes can be challenging, but with the right know-how, you’ll be jetting off in no time.

Going abroad is all fun and games until a burly security guard asks you to explain why you’ve got a box of 500 needles in your luggage. Fortunately for you, I’ve already dealt with the awkwardness so you don’t have to.

Do diabetics need a doctor’s note before going on holiday?

Hell yeah you do. A doctor's note will save you a world of issues at the airport, as it gives you free rein to take your prescribed medicine on the plane with you.

You'll need to contact your GP a few weeks in advance of your departure to ask for one. Treat it with the same importance as your passport. It'll come in very handy.

How can diabetics take insulin on a plane?

Airports don't like you taking mysterious liquids on board for obvious reasons, so a little vial of insulin may well cause suspicion. However, diabetes is pretty common, so you can be sure you won't be the first person they've seen with it.

To make things easy, put all your medication in a clear plastic bag. That includes insulin, needles and any finger pricking devices. That's the stuff they'll want to see. Put your doctor's note in there too and you shouldn't have any problems.

How much insulin can you take with you on a plane?

A small vile of insulin is nowhere near the liquid limit for flights, so you can take as many back-ups as you like. Pack them all in a clear plastic bag.

How does diabetic insulin cope on flights?

When up in the air, things can get very, very cold, especially in the unheated luggage hold. If your insulin is in there it could well freeze, which is bad news.

We'd suggest keeping it in your hand luggage. That way it will get the same nice air conditioning as you, meaning it will be safe when you arrive.

Can diabetics get medication when abroad?

We’d strongly advise you take any medication you need with you, including extra just in case. Getting new stuff while you're in a different country isn't easy. However, if you get desperate a doctor’s note will help you out.

If you show this to a pharmacist or doctor abroad, they'll understand that you're diabetic and potentially help you overcome any language barrier.

Unfortunately not every country has the wonders of the NHS, so you may have to pay for your medication. However, if your travel insurance is aware of your diabetes, you may be able to claim this back.

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