Considerations for Diabetes, Vacation Activities, and Destinations

Vacations are a great way to relax and recharge. Taking time for self-care is especially important to help manage the stress associated with having a chronic condition like diabetes. While on vacation, it’s still important to find a balance between having fun and continuing to manage diabetes. Use the following tips to help prepare for all the adventures that your travels may entail and take care of your diabetes along the way.

Physical Activity

Increased physical activity can increase your risk for low blood sugar. If your travels entail a lot of movement (ie. hiking, theme park, museum), be sure you have snacks and emergency low BG treatment options on hand.

If you plan to have a slower-paced vacation, try to work in some gentle movement to balance blood sugars and relaxation. Some ideas: Take a swim in the pool, do some gentle water aerobics, go for a walk on the beach, explore the town you’re staying at with a walk, or even explore the facilities in your hotel with a walk.

Medication Management

If you plan to be very physically active, discuss with your medication prescriber how you may need to adjust your insulin dosing to account for the extra movement.

Foot Care

If you plan to be on your feet a lot, be sure to pack comfortable, supportive shoes and moisture-wicking socks to help prevent blisters.

Avoid walking barefoot, especially if you have diabetic neuropathy in your feet.

Examine your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or signs of infections.

Protect your Skin

Sun burns are a stressor for your body; stress can raise blood sugars. Consider that if you’re going to a destination with lots of sun exposure or at a high altitude, you have even higher chances of getting a sunburn. Be sure to pack broad spectrum SPF and re-apply it regularly. Consider packing a wide-brimmed hat or UV-protective clothing for added protection. And remember, cloudy days still require sun protection!

Navigating Vacation Cuisine

Drinking alcohol, especially on an empty stomach, increases your risk for having low blood sugar. This can be especially dangerous because the symptoms of intoxication can mimic the symptoms of low blood sugars. If consuming alcohol, do so in moderation, consume it with food, and keep a close eye on your blood sugars.

Many people’s eating becomes more liberal when on vacation. As best you can, try to stick to your nutrition plan to avoid dealing with high blood sugars. Consider checking out the restaurant options in the area to identify a restaurant that sounds good but also keeps your blood sugars on track.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can cause blood sugars to be higher. Decreased fluid intake is common when traveling as we are out of our routine and maybe want to avoid untimely needs to go to the bathroom. Other potential contributors to dehydration are hot humid weather, sun burns, and frequent urination.

Remember, if you're thirsty, your body is already getting dehydrated, so drink sugar-free fluids regularly throughout the day! Consider bringing a reusable water bottle to help you stay on track with your hydration goals. Sugar-free electrolytes can be good to have on hand to help with rehydration.

One of the effects of diabetic neuropathy can be damage to the nerves regulating sweat glands. This can lead to a harder time regulating body temperature. For those with this condition traveling to a hot environment, take breaks in air-conditioned spaces or shade.

Climate and Blood Sugars

Hot and humid climates pose a risk for dehydration. In addition to drinking plenty of sugar-free fluids, consider carrying a cooling towel or a small portable fan to help you stay cool.

Cold temperature can increase cortisol levels in your blood which can lead to increased blood sugars. Wear warm layers, paying special attention to your extremities (especially if you have diabetic neuropathy).

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