What is different when you go on holiday?
- Temperature
- Food choices
- Alcohol
- Activity
- Time zone
These things can all affect blood glucose levels.
It is important to:
- monitor your blood glucose levels more frequently
- consider increasing or decreasing your insulin doses, if necessary
- always carry hypoglycaemia treatment
Other things to consider
- Take more insulin and supplies than your require
- Ensure you have appropriate travel insurance
- Declare your insulin and needles at customs (you will require a Travel letter*)
- When travelling on a plane, you must keep your insulin in your hand luggage, due to the temperature in the hold, insulin will freeze and become ineffective
- Consider how you will store your insulin: purchasing a cool bag to ensure your insulin stays at the correct temperature (link to fryo pack)
Find more information on Time Zone changes is available in the TREND Diabetes and Travel leaflet:
If you are unsure how to manage your insulin and time zone changes, Please contact the Diabetes Team for advice.
If you require a Travel letter, please contact the Diabetes Team on 01563 827642. It is advised you give 14 days notice for postal letters, or 48 hours for collection at University Hospital Ayr or University Hospital Crosshouse.