Having diabetes should not keep you from traveling. You do need to plan ahead, though.

ALWAYS keep a carry-on bag with you. The bag should have your diabetic medicines and supplies and some snacks. If a meal is late, eat a snack from your bag and then buy more to put back in the bag. Snacks that travel well are fruit juice boxes or cans, dried fruit, cheese and cracker packs, and breakfast bars.

If you are changing time zones, talk to your healthcare provider to find out what changes you need to make about when to take your medicine.

If you are traveling by plane, boat or train, you can request a "diabetic meal" a day or two before you leave. Your travel agent can be helpful for this.

Since you will be eating away from home, be careful of the amount of food served at restaurants. Split a meal or order from the appetizer or child's menu to get a smaller serving. If you will be drinking alcohol, figure this into your daily meal plan. Do not drink more than one or two drinks a day.

Tell your healthcare provider about your travel plans; there may be some information he can give you. For more information about diabetes, contact the American Diabetes Foundation at (800) 878-1504.

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