The borders within and around Australia have reopened and many of us are taking the opportunity to travel again. Travelling with diabetes means a little extra planning, particularly if you use a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) or flash glucose monitoring (Flash GM) device. Here are some useful tips and reminders to help your trip run smoothly.

1. Be prepared. Pack enough supplies for your holiday and a few extras. If a CGM or Flash GM transmitter or sensor malfunctions be sure to have the contact number of your manufacturer to get a replacement as the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) subsidy for CGM and Flash GM has a maximum supply limit. 
2. Organise with your pharmacy to order supplies for your trip. You can order up to your annual limit but ensure you only order what you need as CGM and Flash GM sensors have a short shelf-life. Be aware that exposing your sensors to varying temperatures and humidity while in storage can affect their shelf-life. 
3. If you intend to spend time in the water make sure you know the underwater limits of your CGM or Flash GM.
4. Hot water from a spa can loosen the stickiness of the sensor so it does not stay on for as long. Salt water also effects the adhesiveness. Wearing an extra cover over your sensor will help. Hyperflex is a good cover or speciality covers are available at the diabetes shop: https://diabetesshop.com/collections/wipes-and-removal-sprays.
5. When flying be organised for airport security. Have a letter from your general practitioner that documents you have insulin-requiring diabetes and are required to wear your CGM/Flash GM. Also carry your National Diabetes Supply Scheme card. When at security inform the officers you have insulin requiring diabetes and are unable to remove your CGM/Flash GM.  Also inform them that your spare CGM/Flash GM sensors are unable to go through the airport carry-on luggage x-ray machine. Do not go through the body scanner as this will damage the transmitter and sensors. You can ask for a pat down and they will also do a manual swab of your clothes and items for explosive residue.
6. If travelling around Australia pre-order your CGM/Flash GM sensors and supplies from the next NDSS access point pharmacy for collection. Most pharmacies will not have spare stock and only order when requested from clients for NDSS supplies. In regional and remote areas, it may take at least a week for NDSS supplies to arrive at the pharmacy. 
7. If you lose or misplace your NDSS card you can always use your Medicare card to order NDSS supplies at pharmacies.
8. When travelling overseas or on a cruise always make sure you have travel insurance which covers diabetes. Also check the rules of the airline and the country you are traveling to in regards to carrying medication. For more information go to https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/before-you-go/health/medications.
9. Don’t forget that your blood glucose levels can be affected by holiday excitement, stress, and temperature change. Consult with your health professional team in regards to insulin regimen changes before you travel. 

By Pollyemma Antees APD, CDE