Food Tips for Traveling With Diabetes

Got a trip planned in 2022?

You already know there’s unique challenges to travel with things like a global pandemic, security, and staffing shortages.

But that’s not the only thing you should think about before you catch a plane or take a road trip.

When you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar level in check can be a little trickier when you’re traveling. Fortunately, a little planning can make all the difference.

Before you travel, keep these food tips in mind to manage diabetes:

1. BYOS…Bring Your Own Snacks

If you’re driving, bring a cooler packed with healthy snacks that won’t cause a massive spike in blood sugar levels. Try fresh-cut vegetables, fruit, whole-grain bread or crackers, and hummus. And drink plenty of water.

If you’re flying, you can still bring your own snacks. Just make sure they’re small enough to fit in your carryon.

2. Make Smart Food Choices Dining Out

Got an airport layover? Or maybe your road trip includes quickie-mart stops and restaurant meals?

Skip the fried food, desserts, and sugary drinks, and go for healthier options like:

• Fruit, nuts, sandwiches made with whole-grain bread, yogurt
• Leafy-green salads
• Chicken, turkey or fish
• Eggs and omelets
• Lean beef or steak. If you order a burger, skip the bun and ask for a lettuce wrap.
• Burrito bowl, without the tortilla, chips or rice

3. Got a Microwave? Keep Cooking Simple

If you’re staying with family and friends or renting a house or room, you can still eat healthy without going out to eat, as long as there’s a microwave.

Plan ahead. Pick your favorite Diabetic-Friendly MagicKitchen.commeals. Bring them with you in a cooler or send them to your destination with fast delivery. And you’ll have breakfast, lunch, and dinner ready in minutes.

Bonus Tip: Pack Insulin and Testing Supplies

If you need to take insulin to help regulate blood sugar levels, it needs to stay cool. Pack it in a cooler, and keep it away from direct sunlight. But don’t put it directly on an ice or gel pack.

Testing your blood sugar is also an important way to make sure you’re keeping it under control. Pack enough testing supplies for your trip, and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures.

Traveling with diabetes doesn’t have to be hard. You can get from where you are to where you want to be, and enjoy your trip, even when you have diabetes.