Traveling with diabetes and neuropathy can be an enjoyable experience when you plan ahead. Knowing what to expect while you travel, and planning properly can help you control your blood sugar levels and prevent any potential complications

Consult with Your Doctor Before Traveling

If you haven't had a physical recently, or seen the doctor make an appointment before you travel. Depending on where you go and the activities that you will be doing, you may need different medications, vaccines, or travel items. Your doctor will be able to help you figure out what you need to stay healthy no matter where you go. They may also provide you with specific exercise recommendations.

Wear Proper Socks and Shoes

No matter where you're going, make sure that you wear socks and never walk barefoot. You also want to make sure that you have the right shoes for the right activity that you're doing. Siren Diabetic Socks go a step beyond standard socks and help you protect your feet. The socks and connected system monitor the health of your feet using miniature sensors the entire time you wear them. The socks work to alert you to a potential complication like a foot ulcer so that you can prevent them from occurring.

Pack a Smart Travel Bag

Whether you're flying or traveling by train or car, pack a carry-on bag with all the essentials. Be sure that you have snacks, water, and all of your medications close at hand. You'll also want to have test strips and a note from a doctor. Think very carefully about the items that you put in your carry-on and make sure that it has everything you need.

Find the Local Hospitals

Wherever you are traveling to, it's important to research and find a local hospital. In a worst case situation, if you have to be seen it's important to know where to go.

Have a Travel Companion

It's important when you're traveling to have someone that you're traveling with, know about your health and wellness needs. When you have someone who is aware of what your needs are it's better in the event that you do need help. They can also be someone who checks in with you or lets you know if they notice anything out of the ordinary.

Plan Ahead if You're Traveling by Plane

If you're traveling by airplane, be sure that you've planned ahead. Make sure that all medications are in their original containers and in your carry-on bag. TSA has a toll-free phone number designed to help anyone with health or medical issues. You can call 1-855-787-2227 over 72 hours prior to traveling with questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint. They can be a great resource to help you figure out how to prepare for air travel.

Talk to Your Health Insurance

Prior to traveling, be sure that you've contacted your health insurance provider. This can help you figure out what to do, and what's covered in the event that you're sick or injured while you're traveling.

Consider Travel Insurance

In the event that your health insurance does not cover care when you're traveling, travel insurance can be an essential item. Travel insurance may cover the costs of an accident or injury while abroad. If you currently have medical concerns or are at risk for a more serious problem. Travel insurance can be a key part of your planning for traveling.

Practice Self Care

Don't forget to check in with yourself on a daily basis. Did you eat enough? Did you drink enough water? Did you check your feet? Have you checked your levels? Constantly check in with yourself to see if you're overexerting yourself and see how you're feeling. If you did too much one day, take a break, rest and get back to 100%.

Talk to your CDE About Jet Leg and Time Zone Changes

Your CDE will be able to help you figure out how to change your medications and take care of yourself if you have jet lag. Jet lag and time zone changes can actually be very taxing on your body. So, it's important to take proper precautions and prepare ahead for jet lag, and being a little off kilter when you're in a different time zone.

Interested in reading more? Check out our 5 Tips for Traveling with Neuropathy and 5 Diabetic Foot Issues To Look Out For

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How do you currently travel with diabetes and neuropathy? Please share your tips and tricks with us in the comments below.

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