I routinely review my Google Analytics data for a lot of reasons. Page views matter, but among the most interesting bits of data to me are the search terms that bring readers to the blog. On a daily basis, someone usually visits looking for information on traveling with diabetes. Further, it seems that I frequently read articles about some individual having an issue with TSA screening and their medical conditions, including diabetes. While I readily admit to being annoyed with the totality of the TSA experience from time to time, I can honestly say I have never had a negative personal interaction with any TSA agent. Yep, I said that.
Given the interest in the topic, I’m going to launch a four-part series on traveling with diabetes. I will write from the perspective of a traveling insulin pumper for over 15 years. While I no longer routinely use syringes, and multiple types of insulin, I haven’t forgotten my time with a 75 percent travel job, worldwide travel, and managing injection schedules, etc., so I will bring a little of that in too. What I write is in no way meant to replace the advice of your physician or improve upon what you are already comfortable doing. I’m simply looking to share some tips that have worked well for me with the goal of helping people with diabetes travel well too. And hopefully, we’ll generate some discussion and share ideas.
Traveling with Diabetes – The Basics
Traveling with Diabetes – No Sweat Security
Traveling with Diabetes – Cruise Specifics
Traveling with Diabetes – Insulin Pumper Specifics
-MJ, May 25, 2013
Follow MJ on Travel on Twitter
A gal from our cruise ship noted that she was hesitant to take the cruise tours as they were eratocally timed and didnt allow her the necessary predictability to manage her insulin routine. Concern about how to manage a disability can keep some from traveling; your tips may help those folks take a trip or plan properly.
Having been diabetic now for 4 years and insulin dependent for the last 18 months, I am really looking forward to these insights. I normally travel 30 weeks a year and to date my problems have been few. However there are always potentialities, especuly if there are delays.
This is a very interesting topic. I am not a diabetic myself but as a physician I have always been curious how people traveled and pass through checkpoints and handle medication administration in the air. Look forward to your posts thanks!