Of course, the first and most important point to make is to ensure you pack plenty of insulin for the trip. You always want to have extra just in case you:

    * end up staying longer than expected,
    * encounter a delay, or
    * if you were to accidentally damage some of your supply.

Insulin vials don't take up too much room and it is definitely worth the peace of mind to have extra on hand.

Checking-in your insulin and diabetes equipment: If you are traveling by plane it is best to have your insulin supply and it's related equipment contained in their original containers with the original labels. This is to help avoid any unnecessary delays when going through security checks. If you do not have these in the proper packaging make sure to get some from your pharmacy. Do not risk carrying it in plain packaging or the security staff could confiscate it.

But security checks are not the only issue to deal with. Check ahead of time with your transportation company about the luggage regulations. As well as the legal guidelines, you will need to know how your bags will be stored and the temperatures they will be exposed to. The luggage storage hold of the bus or train, or even the baggage hold of the plane, may experience extreme temperature differences during travel...

    * most anti-diabetic medications,
    * glucose meters, and
    * testing strips

need to be stored at room temperature. Many injectables must be kept cool.

Travel bags: Always carry two different travel bags with you and split your insulin and supplies into both bags. That way, if one bag is lost, you will have an ample supply of what you need until your other bag can be located.

When packing, you have to be extremely careful with your supplies. This all comes down to the type of case you will be carrying it in. There are many different types on the market so make sure you do your homework before purchasing. It needs to be compact enough not to be cumbersome, while still offering substantial protection. Travel bags are made specifically for diabetes supplies and can be purchased from your pharmacy and/or available online.

Also, make sure your case is well insulated for extreme weather variations. Your supplies cannot get too hot or too cold so check the insulation rating before you buy. Also, if traveling by plane, make sure your supplies are in your carry-on luggage. Temperatures in the cargo compartment can get very cold and your supplies could become permanently damaged if left there throughout the flight.

Lastly, make sure you carry some snacks of your own to help prevent overeating or to help fill you when there are flight delays, or even meal delays. If your blood sugar levels are low, you may need to grab something to eat. Having the right items on hand could avoid having to rely on unhealthy vending machines or worse... doing without. Just make sure the snacks you select can withstand the trip and being banged around in your luggage.

But don't forget... extra meals, sitting for long periods, and even travel jitters can all raise your blood sugar.

By Beverleigh H Piepers