Travelling with diabetes

Things to check out before you go

  • Get the vaccinations you need.
  • Carry diabetes ID and a letter from your doctor if you are carrying insulin.
  • Travel insurance:
    - Allow 2 weeks to buy your travel insurance.
    - Don’t just buy on price, check the cover and read the small print – it’s too late when you come to make a claim.
    - Be honest and declare all medical conditions. Failure to do so could lead to difficulty if you need to claim.
    - We recommend all members of the party travel under the same policy.
    - To get a quote from Diabetes UK Insurance Services follow the link.
  • Plan to take twice the quantity of medical supplies you would normally use for your diabetes.
  • If you are travelling across time zones you may need to adjust the timing of your medication.
  • If you are travelling to a hot or cold climate this may affect how your insulin and blood glucose monitor work.
    Your healthcare team can offer more advice about the vaccinations you need, timing of your medication and the impact that the weather can have on you.  Be sure to consult with them when planning your trip.
  • Make sure you have the new European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you are travelling to a European Union member country - it will ensure that you have easy access to healthcare in that country. Obtain your EHIC from www.ehic.org.uk, by calling 0845 605 0707, or fill in a pack at the Post Office – remember it is still advisable to buy travel insurance for example it doesn't cover emergency repatriation and not all countries give the level of cover of the NHS.
  • For practical information about the country you are visiting our wide range of country guides, with almost every country from Albania to Zambia, will also help you prepare for your trip. To order please phone 0800 585 088, stating the country you wish to visit.
  • For the latest information about the country you're visiting, including safety and visa requirements, check the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website www.fco.gov.uk.
  • Make sure your passport is still valid - some countries will require your passport to remain valid for a minimum period (in some cases up to six months).
  • Plan your route to the airport, ferry etc.  If you’re driving, check for any road works or, if travelling by public transport, check for engineering works.
  • Research about the area you’re going to and plan what you want to see and do - try and find places of interest or recommended restaurants.
  • Don't take large quantities of cash with you. Order your foreign currency and take travellers cheques and/or credit cards (make sure you have your emergency numbers with you to cancel the cards if necessary).