Packing for Vacation: My Ultimate Diabetes Checklist

Vacations may be relaxing, but packing for them is certainly not. And as people with diabetes, forgetting to pack supplies isn’t like forgetting to pack a pair of flip flops - the hotel gift shop doesn’t unfortunately doesn’t carry an emergency supply of insulin.

Luckily I’ve figured out how to fail-proof your pack list for all your diabetes tech, snacks, and supplies. And since travel (and diabetes) isn’t cheap, I have some affiliate links and discounts to save you money as you plan for your upcoming trips. 

Bringing compact and convenient low snacks

We’ve all had the post-airport-sprint low blood sugar. When it comes to handling lows while traveling, the right snacks are crucial. I’m not a fan of glucose tablets. Although they get the job done, they’re bulky, not the most convenient for day trips, and frankly not as tasty. Instead, I prefer fruit leathers like the Pure Organic Variety Pack. They’re small, easy to slip into my pocket or bag, and don’t take up much space. 

Another snack I always pack are glucose gels. I love how compact they are, and they quickly raise my blood sugar when I need it. For a healthier option, I also bring applesauce packets, which I grab in bulk at Costco. They’re organic and a good alternative to your typical sugary snacks.

But if you live with diabetes, you know that glucose alone isn’t enough. To stabilize my blood sugar and prevent crashes after a spike, I pack extra snacks with a mix of protein and carbs. Protein bars or trail mix are my go-to because they help keep my blood sugar level steady over time.

@diabe_tech

Best Costco low snacks! What are yours? #t1d #diabetes

More is more: How I calculate extra diabetes tech supplies

Packing my diabetes tech is all about preparation. I use the disposable and tubeless Omnipod pump which comes in super convenient packaging – everything you need for a site change, except insulin, comes in its compact package.

Though it may be tempting to save space, packing extra pump supplies is crucial. Each pod lasts for three days, but anything could go wrong. From a pod site-failure to accidentally knocking it off, I always pack in excess. For a four-day trip, I’d pack at least three additional pods which would last 12 days (plus the days left on the pod I’m using). It might seem like overkill, but I’d rather have extra pods take up room than the hassle of no pumps away from home.

I also wear the Dexcom G7 continuous glucose monitor (CGM). These last 10 days, plus have an extra 12-hour grace period. For a trip anywhere from 2-10 days, I’d bring a minimum of two extra CGMs to cover me for 20 days and in case a sensor or two fall off. The applicators are small and it’s easy to slide two of them into a shoe in my bag. I also make sure to pack an additional CGM in my backpack in case my checked luggage is lost or damaged. 

And while most people rely on CGMs and pumps these days, blood glucose monitor kits are still essential. Don’t make the mistake of leaving your testing kit behind, especially if you’re traveling to a place where your CGM might not be reliable.

Pro tip: Don’t sweat it when it comes to luggage space. Most airlines allow an additional medical supplies carry-on free of charge! This will also ensure that you have all of your supplies in case your checked luggage gets lost.

Keeping your devices (and your sanity) secure 

Vacations can bring a lot of wear and tear to my devices – especially if I’m in the pool or sweating from the heat. To make sure my devices stay on, I swear by Skin Grip patches for my Omnipod and Dexcom, though they also make patches for infusion sets and other CGMs. 

These patches are great because they hold everything in place and keep my devices secure. I like the multicolor pack for fun, but there are skin-tone options too if you want something more discreet. Knowing my devices are secure with Skin Grip allows me to feel more present while I’m vacationing. I keep patches for my Omnipod and Dexcom in my toiletry bag at all times (alcohol swabs too)! You can save 10% off Skin Grip with my code JUSTIN10 here.

The most important essential of all – Insulin

Here’s one I can’t stress enough—always bring your insulin! Seems like common sense, right? Well, I’ve forgotten it more than once, and that’s because oftentimes the insulin is sitting in my fridge. I started sticking Post-It notes on the inner doorknob of my front door to make sure I don’t forget the life-saving vials.

While you’re at it, you should keep the precious cargo safe from drops. For safe travel, I use these silicone insulin protectors. These cases are only $7 for a two-pack and do the trick!

It’s always a good idea to be prepared for anything, especially with diabetes tech failures. That’s why I bring backup insulin (both long-acting and short-acting), along with syringes in case my pump or CGM fails. You never know when something could go wrong, so it’s better to have a backup plan in place.

Your vacation is hot but your insulin shouldn’t be

If you’re traveling in hot weather, or just want to be extra cautious, keeping insulin cool is essential. I use FRIO cooling cases to keep my insulin cool on the go. These cases work by using absorbent materials that soak up water and keep the temperature cool for 2-4 days.

I like FRIO because they don't require a freezer or electricity to maintain and can be used more easily in a zombie apocalypse. I use a small FRIO case for trips with two vials of insulin and the larger size for longer trips. You can save 10% off FRIO with my code JUSTIN10 here.

Over the years I’ve learned a lot about insulin – using it as part of my daily diabetes management, how it affects me with different meals, and traveling with it. I shared all of the lessons I’ve learned in my most recent YouTube video below.

Be prepared for any emergency

You may be prepared for a zombie apocalypse, but what about a severe low blood glucose? Whether it’s a nasal spray or an injectable form, a glucagon kit is essential in an emergency. I always carry one with me, and I make sure my travel companions know where I store it.

Always educate anyone you’re traveling with about how and when to use the kit. Remember, a glucagon kit is only as good as someone’s knowledge of how to use it!

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