Is it easy to travel with Diabetes?
The American Diabetes Association has worked closely with the TSA to ensure all diabetes-related supplies can be carried on board by people with diabetes once they have been properly screened by x-ray or hand inspection. The ADA offers the following tips for people traveling with diabetes:
- Arrive at least two to three hours before your flight. Ensure all your supplies, including devices, have a prescription label or you carry a note from your doctor explaining the reason you need these supplies. Place all medications in a clear, sealable bag and keep them separate from your other belongings for screening. Pack twice as much medication as you think you would need
- Carry or wear medical identification and your physician's contact information as well as a quick-acting source of glucose (such as candy, or juice) and a nutrition bar to treat low blood glucose.
- Learn to say "I have diabetes", or "Sugar or orange juice please", in the language of the country you are visiting
- If you use an insulin pump, inform the screening officer of it before screening begins. You will not be required to disconnect the pump; however, the pump itself may be subject to additional screening and possibly explosive trace detection sampling
- If you do not want a liquid, gel, or aerosol X-rayed or opened for additional screening, inform the screening officer before the process begins. However, be aware that medications not cleared by other additional screening means may have to be x-rayed or they may not be allowed on board.
For more information about traveling with diabetes ring TSA Cares (1-855-787-2227) Mon-Fri 9 am-9 pm EST, excluding Federal holidays; or look on their website, www.tsa.gov.
The ADA is also keen to hear from people who believe they have been subjected to overly intrusive screening or treated unfairly just because they have diabetes. If you weren't happy with your experiences contact 1-800-DIABETES and ask to speak with a legal advocate.
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