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The Daily Insight

How do you carry your diabetes supplies?

Author

Mia Phillips

Updated on April 24, 2026

Packing: Put your diabetes supplies in a carry-on bag (insulin could get too cold in your checked luggage). Think about bringing a smaller bag to have at your seat for insulin, glucose tablets, and snacks. Pack twice as much medicine as you think you’ll need.

What should diabetics always carry with them?

Fast-acting glucose: You should always carry a small supply of fast-acting glucose with you at all times in case you have a low blood sugar reaction. Glucose tablets and glucose gels are available for this specific purpose. You can keep these in your purse, coat pocket, briefcase, or glucose testing kit.

How do I keep my insulin cold while traveling?

If you’re going somewhere cold, like skiing up on a mountain, keep your insulin inside your coat or jacket pocket, or somewhere close to your body to prevent it from getting too cold. If you’re going somewhere hot, like a tropical island, be careful not to leave your insulin sitting inside a bag or car.

Can I travel with diabetic supplies?

Yes. TSA specifically states that diabetes-related supplies, equipment and medications, including liquids, are allowed through the checkpoint once they have been properly screened by X-ray or hand inspection. Passengers should declare these items and separate them from other belongings before screening begins.

Do diabetics need a letter to fly?

Checked Bags: Yes Please notify the TSA officer that you have diabetes and are carrying your supplies with you. Insulin pumps and supplies must be accompanied by insulin, and insulin in any form or dispenser must be clearly identified. Learn more about transporting medication on your next flight.

What should be in a diabetic emergency kit?

1. The Basic Diabetes Emergency Kit

  1. An easily identifiable bag.
  2. A backup meter with strips and lances.
  3. A small container with a lid for used sharps and strips.
  4. Alcohol swaps.
  5. A Glucagon kit.
  6. Glucose gel, tabs, or other easily consumable preportioned snacks like a box of raisins.
  7. A small supply of medications.

What are diabetic lancets?

Lancets are small devices that provide a way to take blood samples. People with diabetes may use a lancet to test and monitor their blood glucose levels.

Can insulin pens go through airport security?

Insulin. Insulin is always allowed in your carry-on bags in vials, pen form or otherwise. Do NOT put your insulin in checked baggage — always carry it with you, as severe changes in pressure or temperature can tamper with insulin.

How cold is too cold for insulin?

Keep your diabetes devices and insulin out of the cold Just like extreme heat, extreme cold can affect your insulin (insulin solutions freeze near 32 degrees Fahrenheit), and we recommend that you avoid exposing your insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor to weather below 34 degrees Fahrenheit.

Can I be a pilot with diabetes?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) identifies insulin use as an absolutely disqualifying condition to receiving a medical certificate to operate aircraft.

Can you take diabetic lancets on a plane?

You may go through airport security with lancets as long as they are capped and carried with your glucose meter with the manufacturer’s name embossed on the meter.

What to pack in your diabetes emergency bag?

Insulin pen (if you use it)

  • Pen needles (if you use them)
  • Insulin pump supplies (enough for two changes
  • Glucose tablets or other quick acting source of sugar
  • Cake icing gel
  • Glucagon kit
  • Small scissors
  • Waterproof tape (if you use it)
  • Baby oil or adhesive remover
  • First aid kit
  • What supplies do diabetics need?

    Many people prefer to keep the diabetes supplies in a kitchen or bedroom drawer. That way, the glucose monitor, syringes, insulin, lancets, alcohol swabs, and other necessary supplies are always together and available for use. Always think ahead. You never want to risk being without the supplies and medicine you need.

    What diabetic supplies are covered by Medicaid?

    The diabetes equipment and supplies that are covered by Medicare Part B (medical insurance) include the following: Blood sugar (glucose) test strips Blood sugar testing monitors Insulin pumps (and insulin that the device uses) Lancet devices and lancets Glucose control solutions Therapeutic shoes or inserts

    What diabetic supplies are covered by Tricare?

    TRICARE covers diabetic supplies through the pharmacy and medical benefits. You can get the following diabetic supplies from a military pharmacy, through home delivery or at any TRICARE network pharmacy.