Heading to the beach or pool as a type 1 diabetic can definitely be fun—you just need to pack smart. While we are on vacation, we try to keep his Omnipod and Dexcom devices on his upper arms. This helps to wrap with vet tape and also allows us to keep track of his numbers as being fully under water, you will lose data connection.
Here’s a list of essentials that balance fun in the sun with keeping your diabetes under control: Click the item to purchase.
Diabetes-Specific Essentials
- Insulin & Backup Supplies (Pens, vials, pump supplies, syringes)
- Insulin Cooling Case (opens in a new tab) (Frio or similar—crucial in the heat for pens or insulin vials, we usually keep extra insulin for our pump in the hotel room if possible)
- Glucose Meter/CGM & Extra Sensors
- Pump Patches (opens in a new tab) or Waterproof Covers (opens in a new tab) (if you wear a pump or CGM)
- MedVet Tape (opens in a new tab)(wrap your devices)
- SkinTac (opens in a new tab) (helps keep devices on)
- Backup Battery/Charger (opens in a new tab)(especially for pumps or CGMs)
- Ketone Strips (opens in a new tab) (just in case you feel off)
- Dry Bag (opens in a new tab)(we use this for boating trips)
- Waterproof Pouch (opens in a new tab) (for diabetes supplies + phone)
Low Blood Sugar Treatments
- Fast-acting carbs (Glucose tabs, gels, juice boxes, gummies)
- Snacks with protein (like trail mix or peanut butter crackers)
- Glucagon Pen or Nasal Spray (emergency backup)
General Beach & Pool Stuff
- Sunscreen (do not spray devices)
- Plenty of Water (Hydration is key—more if you’re active)
- Electrolyte Drinks (opens in a new tab) (Low sugar or sugar free, we prefer to travel with packets)
- Shade Setup (opens in a new tab) (Umbrella or pop-up tent to protect gear & you)
Tips for the Day
- Test more often (sun, activity, and water mess with glucose levels)
- Protect tech from sun + water (store under a towel/in a cooler bag)
Travel & Vacation with Type 1 Diabetes
