Travelling Canada with Type 1 Diabetes: Packing Checklist and Essential Tips
Traveller's Guide on How to Manage Type 1 Diabetes While Adventure Seeking in Canada
A Canadian Guide while Travelling with Type One Diabetes (T1D) - In addition to being an outdoor adventure seeker, I am a mom and a registered nurse. I never realized how well this would prepare me for adventures until my son was diagnosed with type one diabetes (T1D) almost two years ago. Travelling with a family member or friend who has T1D can feel like preparing for a cross-country expedition—because, well, it is. In Canada, with its stunning landscapes and reliably unpredictable weather, having a plan to manage diabetes while on the move is essential. Whether you're heading to the Rockies, visiting family in Halifax, or navigating airport security for a cross-province flight, this guide will help you pack, organize, and troubleshoot like a pro. Bonus: it's sprinkled with humour because managing diabetes is serious business, but laughter helps keep us sane.
A Canadian Guide for Travelling with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) - Packing and Supplies Checklist
Follow along this Canadian guide for packing and organizing supplies when travelling with type one diabetes (T1D) to ensure you've got what you need, where you need it, when you need it. Hint: If you're flying, that means to keep it all in your carry-on!
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) & Insulin Pump Supplies:
- Continuous Glucose Monitoring device (like Dexcom or Libre sensors): Pack at least 1.5 times the number you think you'll need. Remember, mountains don't stock sensors.
- Insulin Pump supplies like Tandem Cartridges and Infusion Sets, or Omnipod: Bring extras in case of site failures or surprise detours.
- Alcohol Wipes and Adhesive Patches: Keep those sites clean and sensors secure—bonus points if you find patches in fun patterns.
Canadian Guide for Travelling with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) Insulin and Delivery Backups :
- Insulin Vials or Pens: Bring double what you think you will need! And don't forget the needle tips if using a pen. Always keep your insulin with you in your carry-on. Don't forget to bring your long-acting insulin as back-up, even if your pump takes only fast-acting. If you have to go pump-free, you will need both.
- BreezyPack Carrying Cases: Canadian summers can be toasty—keep insulin cool without refrigeration thanks to Canadian BreezyPacks, made in Quebec City, Quebec.
Low Blood Sugar Treatments:
- Rockets (Canada's glucose tab MVP): Compact and fast-acting. Keep them in every bag and pocket. Made in Canada, peanut free and gluten free, these are the perfect sugar upper for almost any low.
- Juice Boxes or Gel Packs: Canadian Air Transport Security Authority's (CATSA) approved and great for immediate treatment.
- Snacks: Granola bars, dried fruit, dried meat, cheese and your T1D's favourites to keep blood sugar steady during travel delays.
A Canadian Guide for Travelling with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) Must-Haves:
- Spare Batteries/Chargers: For the pump and your phone—you don't want a dead battery during an emergency
- Ketone Strips and Meter: Better safe than sorry.
- Manual Glucometer: Always be ready to back-up finger poke, to recalibrate your CGM, or as a substitute if yours goes off-line.
- Medical ID: A bracelet or necklace stating "type 1 diabetes" is a must.
- Doctor's Note: A letter explaining medical supplies for airport staff.
- Travel Insurance: Make sure it covers diabetes-related emergencies.
Did You Know?
A person with T1D (as well as other medical conditions) is often permitted one extra carry-on bag for their medical supplies. To take advantage of this it is important to ensure that the medical supplies are packed separately and consist solely of medical items to qualify for this exemption. This means the bag should not contain any personal or non-medical items. Syringes and needles are also allowed in your carry-on, as long as you are also carrying with you the injectable medication (e.g. insulin).
Airport Security: The Great Canadian Showdown
Navigating airport security with diabetes gear doesn't have to feel like a game of 20 Questions. Let this Canadian guide for packing and organizing supplies when travelling with type one diabetes help you find your way through airport security do's and don'ts.
Body Scanners:
- The Dexcom G7 and Tandem Pump are generally safe to pass through the body scanner. If you're unsure, request a pat-down instead.
X-Ray Machines:
- Insulin Pumps and CGMs: These should not go through the x-ray machine. Politely inform security staff that they'll stay on the T1D's body or be hand-inspected.
- Insulin: Insulin vials, pens, and cartridges are fine to x-ray but should not be exposed to extreme temperatures.
Tips for Smooth Security Checks:
- Separate diabetes supplies into a clear bag for easy inspection.
- Use your best Canadian manners: a polite explanation goes a long way.
- Keep your doctor's note and a list of medications handy.
- Allow extra time. Security lines and diabetes supplies can slow things down.
Troubleshooting on the Go
Surprises and emergencies can still happen, even when following this Canadian guide for packing and organizing supplies when travelling with type one diabetes . Here are three common situations, what might have caused it, and how to handle it. Remember - you can do anything (except make insulin).
High Blood Sugars:
- Causes: Stress, missed boluses, or those irresistible BeaverTails (we've all been there).
- Solutions: Check the infusion site for kinks or blockages. Correct with insulin and encourage hydration. A brisk walk through a scenic trail? Bonus points.
Low Blood Sugars:
- Causes: Extra activity, missed carbs, or excitement about spotting a moose.
- Solutions: Treat immediately with Rockets or juice. Follow with a protein snack if mealtime is far off. Don't let lows derail your plans, but take them seriously.
Equipment Issues:
- Pump Alarms in Public: Cue the stares. Silence the alarm and move on. People are usually more curious than judgmental.
- Sensor Failures: Keep spares and a trusty glucometer handy. Old-school finger pokes save the day.
Tips and Tricks for Happy Travels
- Stay Organized: Use a packing cube or labeled pouch for diabetes supplies. Knowing where everything is will reduce stress. Make sure this stays with your carry-on if you are flying.
- Hydrate Like a Champion: High altitude, dry airplane cabins, and summer heat can dehydrate quickly. Keep that water bottle close at hand.
- Scout Pharmacies: Know where the nearest pharmacy is at your destination.
- Stay Positive: If something goes wrong, remember—you've got this. Diabetes may be a full-time job, but it doesn't clock overtime for ruining vacations.
Wrap-Up: The Great Canadian Adventure Awaits
Managing type one diabetes while traveling is all about preparation, flexibility, and a sense of humour. Follow this Canadian guide for packing and organizing supplies when travelling with type one diabetes to ensure you have everything you need. With the right supplies and a bit of Canadian politeness, you, your family member or friend, can explore our vast, beautiful country with confidence. Whether it's hiking in Banff or strolling the streets of Old Quebec, diabetes doesn't have to hold anyone back.
Pack smart, stay safe, and remember: Rockets save lives. Happy travels, eh?