Planning a vacation with a child who has Type 1 Diabetes? It can feel overwhelming—like packing for a week-long trip and a mini hospital at the same time.
I’ve been there, and after a few successful (and stressful!) getaways with my T1D kid, I’ve put together a practical guide to help you plan ahead, avoid panic, and actually enjoy the trip.
Here are my go-to T1D travel tips for kids, plus a real-life packing list that’s saved us more than once.
🧳 The Ultimate T1D Packing List for Travel
Start with the basics, then double-check for backups.
Pro tip: split supplies across multiple bags in case one gets lost.
🔁 Daily Essentials
- 💉 Insulin pens or pump + cartridges
- 🔋 CGM transmitters and sensors
- 🩸 Test strips and lancing device
- 🧼 Alcohol swabs and adhesive wipes
- 🛏 Bedtime snacks with complex carbs
Going to the beach? Take your CGM and Pump overpatches!
🚨 Backup Supplies
- Extra insulin (stored in a different bag)
- Extra pump infusion sets or pen needles
- Extra CGM sensors and batteries
- Glucagon or Baqsimi spray
- Spare glucose meter with batteries
🍬 Hypo Supplies
- Glucose tablets
- Juice boxes or pouches
- Small candy or dextrose
- Reusable fast-acting snack packs
❄️ Storage & Cooling
- Frio or cooling pouch for insulin
- Backup cooler pack with ice block
- Travel sharps container or plastic bottle
📄 Paperwork & Docs
- Doctor’s letter for airport security
- Travel insurance info
- Emergency instructions (in local language if traveling abroad)
- Printed prescriptions
- Contact info for diabetes clinic
🔌 Tech & Extras
- Phone charger + power bank
- Spare CGM reader (if separate from phone)
- Backup phone with Nightscout/Loop/AAPS apps
- USB wall adapter with multiple ports
✈️ Flying with a T1D Child: What to Know
Flying brings its own set of challenges. Here’s how to make it smoother:
- 🧳 Carry-on all diabetes supplies — never check them in!
- 📝 Show your doctor’s letter to TSA/security if needed. No x-rays, ask for body control!
- 💦 Bring extra hypo supplies in your personal bag—airport delays happen
- 🕰 Watch time zone changes if using a pump or Loop—adjust basal schedules if needed. Sync the pump’s time to new time zone to avoid insulin suspension (AAPS users know that well!)
🌍 International Travel Tips
Traveling abroad? Plan like a pro:
- 🔄 Check how your devices charge (plug adapters, voltage)
- 🌡 Store insulin safely in hot climates with Frio or a mini fridge
- 🌐 Google nearby pharmacies and hospitals before you go
- 💬 Carry a T1D translation card (e.g. “My child has diabetes and needs sugar”) for restaurants or emergencies
🧠 What I’ve Learned the Hard Way
Here are a few real-life tips from trips that didn’t go perfectly:
- Split supplies across bags: We once had a checked bag delayed with half our insulin—never again!
- Always pack backups of everything: Even sensors fail, batteries die, and charging cables get forgotten.
- Overpack hypo snacks: Especially in hot weather or active trips.
- Bring something familiar: A trusted snack or glucose treatment your child likes can be calming in stressful moments.
- Expect airport delays: Leave early and communicate T1D needs with staff.
👨👩👦 Final Thoughts for T1D Parents
Yes, traveling with a child who has Type 1 Diabetes takes extra planning. But it’s so worth it.
Whether it’s a weekend road trip or an overseas adventure, the key is to be prepared, stay flexible, and remember—you’ve got this. You’re already handling the hardest part every single day.
If this checklist helped you, feel free to share it with another T1D parent or bookmark it for your next trip!
