Your Diabetes Tool Kit

What to include in your tool kit

Here are some suggestions:

• Extra insulin, syringes, pens, or insulin pump supplies. When traveling, pack twice as much insulin and supplies as you think you'll need.

• Other medicines you take for diabetes-related problems.

• A letter from your health care provider that describes your diabetes care. Also add copies of all prescriptions.

• The pharmacy label that came with your insulin. This is needed for air travel.

• Fast-acting sugar, such as glucose tablets, or raisins for low blood sugar.

• Snacks that are easy to carry. These include nutrition bars, nuts, or high-protein crackers.

• Glucagon for severe low blood sugar, when you can't safely swallow.

• A blood sugar testing meter or continuous glucose monitor, and lancing device. Also lancets, alcohol wipes, test strips, and a logbook.

• Extra batteries for your glucometer.

• An ID card that says you have diabetes and lists emergency contact numbers. Also keep your provider's contact number handy.

• If you travel by air, consider getting a TSA notification card. This will help the screening process go more quickly.