Travel Tips for People with Circulation, Diabetes, Arthritis, and Other Health Issues

The last thing you need is to be far away from home and not have your necessary medications. Whether you pack them first or last, don’t walk out the door until you’ve checked your medications off your list.

Make a pack of snacks that will help you control your glucose level. Make sure you can access it easily or that someone else could easily get to it. Bring your glucose monitors and pack them close to your nacks. Monitor your glucose levels as often as you would at home.

No one wants to have a visit to a doctor or emergency room while out of town, but it’s best to be prepared in case it does happen. With the proper cards and documentation, you can better focus on getting the treatment you need, instead of insurance red tape.

If you’re going to be in more than one time zone, plan your snacks and monitoring accordingly. Also, ensure that you’ve accounted for time zone changes when taking medications or monitoring glucose levels.

You can use a wide-mouthed, insulated, non-breakable bottle or thermos to help keep your medications cool. Fill the bottle with ice or cold water before hand to cool it. Then empty the bottle, dry it and place your medications inside.

It’s important to get plenty of sleep—even extra sleep—before a big trip but especially if you are dealing with health issues while traveling. Go to bed early before a trip, or take a nap before leaving. Be sure to get good sleep during the trip, as well, so that you’ll be in good shape when traveling back home.

Carry all medications and any other necessities in your carry-on bag. Just in case your luggage is misplaced, you won’t want to be without your necessities. You can always buy another toothbrush!

Inform TSA agents, flight attendants or any other officials of your health conditions. They’ll be more likely to be helpful and also to watch for changes in your condition.