Heading off on a summer road trip? Whether you’re driving to the coast, taking a weekend getaway, or exploring further afield, a little planning can help keep your diabetes on track so you can focus on enjoying the journey

Whether you are driving to the coast, heading away for a few days, or simply spending more time outdoors, summer can mean changes to your usual routine. Meals may be later, activity levels can increase, and hot weather can affect both you and your diabetes supplies.

Before you leave

Pack the essentials

Take enough insulin, medications, glucose-monitoring supplies, pump supplies, and sensors for your trip, with some spare supplies in case of delays or unexpected changes to your plans.

And do not forget your hypo kit. Fast-acting carbohydrates such as glucose tablets, jellybeans, or juice should be easy to reach at all times.

Driving and hypos

Before you drive, check your glucose level and make sure it is safe for you to be behind the wheel. Aim to be above 5mmol/L before you drive and keep hypo treatment within easy reach from the driver’s seat, not packed away in the boot or esky.

If you feel symptoms of a hypo while driving, pull over safely, stop driving, treat the hypo, and wait until you are safe before continuing. It is recommended not to resume driving until above 5mmol, you feel well, and you have followed the recommended waiting period of 30 minutes.

Plan regular breaks at least every two hours and try not to delay meals or snacks. Keep hypo treatment and other snacks within easy reach, as long drives can make it easy to miss your usual eating schedule.

Beat the heat

Hot weather means paying extra attention to hydration and how you store your diabetes supplies.

• Drink water regularly, particularly when travelling or spending time outdoors
• Insulin and some diabetes equipment can be affected by extreme temperatures
• Never leave insulin in direct sunlight or in hot cars. Insulin is generally recommended to be kept at room temperature, around 25–30°C. This also applies to insulin pumps, sensors, and other diabetes technology
• Use a cooler bag or travel pouch when out in hot weather. Never place insulin directly against an ice pack; wrap it in its original box or a towel first

Going further afield?

If you’re flying, keep your essential diabetes supplies in your carry-on luggage, rather than checked baggage. Carry enough supplies for your trip, plus extras in case of delays, and keep hypo treatment and essential diabetes items within easy reach during the flight.

It is also worth carrying your NDSS card, medication prescriptions, and a letter from your doctor outlining your diabetes, medications, and diabetes technology. Check your airline’s requirements before travelling, particularly if you are carrying insulin, needles, a pump, or CGM.

Travelling across time zones can affect the timing of insulin and other medications. Talk with your diabetes healthcare team before you travel so you can plan for changes to your usual routine.

Your summer travel checklist

☐ Medications and diabetes supplies

☐ Extra supplies for unexpected delays

☐ Hypo treatment within easy reach

☐ Glucose monitoring equipment

☐ Plenty of water

☐ A plan to keep supplies cool

☐ Regular driving breaks

☐ Medication/diabetes information

☐ NDSS card, prescriptions, and/or doctor’s letter

☐ Spare batteries, chargers, or backup supplies for devices

☐ Sharps container or safe disposal plan

With a little preparation, you can travel confidently this summer. Pack the essentials, plan ahead for heat and hypos, and enjoy making the most of your time away.

This information is general only. Speak with your diabetes healthcare team for advice specific to your medication, insulin, pump, sensor, or travel plans.

Source: Adapted from general NDSS travel and diabetes guidance.

By Karen Jameson, Credentialled Diabetes Educator