Wheels Up, Worries Down: Air Travel Tips for People with Diabetes

Flying can be a fun way to visit a new destination, but it can also be stressful. It can be overwhelming to think about balancing preparing for the flight, monitoring your blood sugars, how to eat, and medications when you have diabetes. Follow these tips to ensure you have a stress-free experience with flying.

Preparing for the Flight

Reach out to your healthcare provider before going on the trip to nail down your medication regimen and blood sugar goals. Utilize resources like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)’s website to find out what can be packed in your carry- on and what can be packed in checked bags.

Make sure you have snacks packed in your carry-on bag to help manage your blood sugars. These are some good shelf-stable options:

• Nuts
• Fresh or dried fruit
• Whole grain crackers
• Popcorn
• Jerky

You should also have a pack of glucose tablets in your carry-on in case of a low blood sugar situation.

Getting Through Security

Plan to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your scheduled flight. Inform TSA about medical equipment and medications/insulins prior to going through screening. Here are a few tips:

• People with diabetes can bring over 3.4 ounces of liquids through security in carry-on bags– liquid medicines, juice, cool packs for insulin.
• If wearing a CGM or insulin pump, these could be damaged by X Ray machines- request a hand inspection instead.

Keep your medications in their original labeled packaging if possible. Pack your medication in your carry-on bag if possible to avoid temperature effects (especially if you’re taking insulin). This also takes away the risk of you losing your medication in the rare situation that the airline would lose your luggage.

Monitoring Blood Sugars

Check your blood sugars before the flight, during the flight, and soon after landing. Treat as needed. Be aware that oxygen levels are reduced at higher altitudes, which can cause stress on the body and raise blood sugars.

If you have other questions, reach out to our Diabetes Education team.