…For camping
• Pack cool packs to maintain your supplies at safe temperatures.
• Purchase or make a first-aid kit.
• Wear comfortable, broken-in hiking boots or walking shoes. Blisters and sore feet can ruin a vacation, and open abrasions can get infected easily when you have diabetes.
• Take several pairs of good-quality socks.
• If you’ll be hiking, paddling, or doing other physical activities, carry plenty of snacks with you to prevent hypoglycemia.
• Place diabetes supplies in a sturdy waterproof plastic box with a secure lid that won’t get crushed.
…For long drives
• Pack a meter for testing every two hours while driving.
• Stop and walk around every two hours to get a little physical activity and boost your circulation.
• Pack enough food for a meal in case of emergency.
• Review your route before the trip to identify potential food stops, bathroom stops, and stretch breaks.
• Call ahead for reservations at sit-down restaurants to avoid meal delays to help you stay on track with your meal and medication timing.
…For pump/device wearers
• Carry vial insulin and syringes with you just in case your device cannot be used. Have a written transition plan from your doctor with how much and what insulin to take.
• Pack extra adhesive tapes and adhesive products — especially when traveling to hot climates — to keep catheters secure.
• Know how and when to change your basal settings and change your clock settings when traveling to different time zones to avoid problems.
• To prevent sand and debris from clogging your catheter hub when you disconnect it and get in the water, take insulin pump catheter hub caps or sensor catheter hub caps.
• Keep the toll-free help number for your device with you at all times.
…For the beach
• Bring resealable plastic bags to protect devices and medications in sandy or wet areas.
• Skip the flip flops: Pack comfortable beach shoes (breathable shoes that cover the entire foot) to protect your feet, especially if you have neuropathy.
• Use a cooler for drinks, snacks, and supplies.
• Drink lots of water to prevent dehydration.
• Pack plenty of sunscreen with a high SPF (30 or above). Don’t forget to rub some on your ears, neck, and feet.
