How to Avoid Blood Sugar Chaos While Traveling With T1D

Traveling can be exciting, but for those living with Type 1 Diabetes, it can also be a blood sugar rollercoaster. From long airport walks to changing time zones, unpredictable meals, and extreme heat, your routine can get thrown off fast. The good news is, with the right plan, you can enjoy your trip and stay in range.

Here are the top strategies to avoid travel-induced blood sugar chaos.

1. Adjust for Time Zone Changes

If you're crossing time zones, your basal insulin timing will need to shift.

• Traveling east means your day shortens, so you may need to take your insulin earlier.

• Traveling west means your day gets longer, so delay your dose slightly. Plan ahead by gradually adjusting your dosing time a day or two before your flight.

2. Lower Insulin Before the Airport

Airports involve a lot more walking than most of us realize. Security lines, terminals, and last-minute gate changes can lead to unexpected lows.

Consider reducing your bolus insulin or setting a temporary basal rate before heading to the airport to help avoid a crash before you even board.

3. Pack Double Your Supplies

Always carry more than you need. That means:

• Twice the insulin

• Extra pump and CGM supplies

• Backup pens or syringes

• Chargers and batteries
  Luggage gets lost. Flights get delayed. Having extra supplies in your carry-on keeps you protected.

4. Keep Insulin Cool

High temperatures can damage insulin. Use insulated cooling packs or Frio pouches. One Reddit user recommended wrapping a sealed ice pack in clothes inside your bag as a travel hack. Never store insulin in checked baggage or leave it in a hot car.

5. Bring Your Own Snacks

Airport food is expensive and often carb-heavy with no clear labels. Bring snacks with known carb counts such as nuts, protein bars, or boiled eggs. 

6. Stay Active and Hydrated

Long periods of sitting, like during flights, can increase insulin resistance. Take time to walk the aisle during the flight and stretch during layovers. Drink water frequently to prevent dehydration, which can cause unpredictable blood sugar swings.

7. Watch for Heat Sensitivity

Hot weather can increase how fast insulin absorbs into your bloodstream. What normally works at home might hit harder at the beach. Test more frequently in the heat and be prepared to adjust your doses.

8. Use Movement to Manage Meals

Meals while traveling can be heavier and at odd times. A 10-15 minute walk after eating can help lower post-meal spikes and keep your levels stable without needing extra insulin.

Ready to Travel Smarter With T1D?

I help people with T1D stay in control, even in the heat of summer or chaos of travel. If you want a better plan for your next trip, check out my free Blood Sugar Control Masterclass.

You do not have to let unpredictable blood sugar ruin your travel plans. With the right tools and strategies, you can enjoy the journey and stay in range.

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