From experience, you’ll know how much insulin you generally use in a given time period. It is advisable that you take double the amount you would normally use in the time frame you will be away for.
Insulin must be carried in hand luggage and where possible, half of it carried by a travel companion. If you are flying, insulin should never go in the hold, as it may freeze.
It is advisable to find out what insulin is available in your destination country.
If you are travelling through time zones of more than 2 hours difference from home please speak to your diabetes team to get advice on adjusting the settings on your insulin pump. It may also be necessary to adjust the dose of insulin depending on the type of holiday. Again advice should be sought from your diabetes team prior to the holiday.
Insulin will keep for one month at room temperature. It will need to be kept cool during travel or if going to a hot climate. A cool bag will keep it cool during travel however it will need to be stored in a fridge at all other times. If travelling to a cold climate ensure that the insulin does not freeze.
Remember to take two blood glucose meters with you and a double supply of strips and lancets. Blood glucose meters may be affected by extremes of temperature and altitude.
Checklist:
The CHOICE diabetes education programme is available in NI and the border counties of Republic of Ireland, ask your Diabetes Team
Choice Programme
Advice for Children & Young People with Type 1 Diabetes
