Managing Blood Sugar While Travelling

Traveling with diabetes requires thoughtful planning, especially when it comes to food choices and managing blood sugar. Unfamiliar foods and changes in routine make it tricky to bolus correctly without knowing exact carbohydrate ratios, but with preparation and awareness, you can reduce risks of highs and lows and enjoy your journey.

SMART BREAKFAST CHOICES

Choosing breakfast foods that are easy to estimate or low on the glycemic index can help stabilize glucose levels during travel.

• Opt for natural rolled oats or unsweetened muesli, which are slower to digest.
• Fresh fruit such as apples, berries, or bananas is easy to find and count for carbs.
• Eggs are a safe option with very few carbs.
• Wholegrain toast or bread varieties (rye, sourdough) offer predictable carb counts.

PACKING YOUR OWN SNACKS

Bringing your own snacks can help you avoid uncertain carb ratios in airport or roadside food.

• Pack high-fiber and high-protein options like nuts, string cheese, yogurt, and jerky.
• Carry wholegrain crackers, low-sugar granola bars, or fruit for measured carb sources.
• Always keep fast-acting carbs (glucose tablets, jellybeans, juice boxes) on hand for low blood sugar emergencies.

BOLUSING FOR UNKNOWN FOODS

Managing insulin boluses is more challenging with new cuisines or non-standard portions.

• Use carb-counting apps or visual guides to estimate portions when eating out.
• Favor low-GI foods (chickpeas, lentils, vegetables) to avoid spikes.
• If uncertain, bolus conservatively and monitor with frequent blood sugar checks to avoid post-meal lows or highs.
• For insulin pump users, adjust basal rates for time zone changes and update pump times on arrival.

PREPARING FOR LOWS AND HIGHS

Travel can throw off your usual patterns, leading to unpredictable glucose responses.

• Check blood sugar more often, especially after arrival, meals, and activities.
• Plan for travel delays by keeping extra snacks, glucose tabs, and always carrying supplies in your hand luggage.
• Stay hydrated, as dehydration can lead to higher blood sugars.
• Look for opportunities to walk or exercise, as physical activity helps keep glucose in range.

CARB COUNTING TIPS WHEN TRAVELING

Estimating carbs is essential for dosing insulin but can be tricky on the go.

• Learn visual carb counting, such as dividing your plate: half veggies, a quarter lean protein, a quarter low-GI carbs.
• Use digital tools or local guides to look up common foods at your destination.
• When in doubt, err on the side of caution and check more frequently until you adjust.

Smart choices, proactive planning, and flexibility make traveling with diabetes safer and less stressful. Consider consulting your care provider before trips for personalized advice.

Explore our blog for more tips and resources on diabetes management.

Disclaimer: This blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or a qualified health provider with any questions about your condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 (US) or 000 (Australia) immediately, or visit your nearest emergency care center.