Managing Blood Sugar on Long Flights and Car Rides with Type 1 Diabetes
Traveling long distances—whether by airplane or car—can be exciting, but it also requires extra attention for people living with Type 1 Diabetes.
Every time we are on a long car ride, my son’s blood sugar goes high. I am sure it is because he is sitting for a long period of time and his devices are used to more activity so it is not giving him insulin based on his daily history.
Changes in routine, meal timing, physical activity, and stress levels can all affect blood glucose levels. With a little preparation and awareness, you can keep your blood sugar stable and enjoy the journey.
Why Travel Can Affect Blood Sugar
Several travel-related factors can influence glucose levels, including:
- Sitting for long periods
- Changes in meal schedules
- Stress or excitement
- Time zone changes
- Dehydration
- Limited access to healthy food
Understanding these factors can help you plan ahead and manage your diabetes more effectively while traveling.
Tips for Managing Blood Sugar on Long Flights
Monitor Glucose More Frequently
Check your blood sugar more often during long flights. Air travel can affect your routine, and frequent monitoring helps you catch highs or lows early.
Finger prick as needed to ensure numbers are reading correctly. Treat highs as needed.
Stay Hydrated
Cabin air is typically very dry. Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dehydration, which can impact blood sugar control.
Pack Diabetes Supplies in Your Carry-On
Always keep essential supplies with you, including:
- Insulin
- Glucose meter or CGM supplies
- Test strips
- Fast-acting glucose
- Snacks
Avoid packing diabetes supplies in checked luggage in case it gets delayed or lost. I put all of our medical supplies in one carry on bag- video here. I put that large bag right above our heads, but before storing above, I take out any items we made need immediately and put them in the bag that goes under our seats.
I usually ask for a medical pre-board pass for my son so that we are on the plane early and can stow the medical bag right above us. I always get worried the overhead compartments will be full (has happened while I traveled on my own) and I want to make sure we can get to his supplies if needed. This pre-board pass is one benefit of having T1D. Check out the other benefits here!
Move Around When Possible
Walking up and down the aisle occasionally can improve circulation and help regulate blood sugar levels.
Be Prepared for Low Blood Sugar
Keep fast-acting carbohydrates within easy reach, such as:
- Glucose tablets
- Juice boxes
- Hard candy
- Fruit snacks
Managing Blood Sugar During Long Car Rides
Long car trips can also disrupt your routine, especially if you’re sitting for extended periods.
Plan Regular Stops
Stopping every 2–3 hours to stretch, walk, and check your glucose levels can help maintain stable blood sugar.
This is so important! I am one who wants to push through and not stop, but when we do this my son’s numbers have gone high! Just take some breaks and get some movement in there before continuing on.
Keep Supplies Within Reach
Store diabetes supplies in an easily accessible bag. This should include your meter, insulin, snacks, and emergency glucose. I keep my daily medical bag in the front with me.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Cars can become very hot or very cold, which can damage insulin. Use an insulated travel case to keep insulin at a safe temperature.
Pack Healthy Travel Snacks
Bringing your own snacks helps you control carbohydrate intake and avoid relying on convenience store options.
Check out our snack ideas!
Additional Travel Tips
Whether flying or driving:
- Monitor blood sugar more frequently than usual
- Keep snacks available at all times
- Stay hydrated
- Adjust insulin if activity levels change
- Carry a medical ID indicating you have Type 1 diabetes
Travel Confidently with Type 1 Diabetes
With proper preparation and awareness, people living with Type 1 Diabetes can safely enjoy long trips by air or car. Monitoring your blood sugar, staying hydrated, and planning ahead will help you maintain good glucose control and make your travel experience more comfortable.
Safe travels and happy adventures! ✈️🚗
