Flying with Insulin Pumps & CGMs: Complete 2025 Travel Guide

Flying with diabetes doesn't mean sacrificing control or safety. Millions of people with insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) travel successfully every year. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to navigate air travel confidently, from TSA screening to international flight preparation.

Understanding Insulin Pump and CGM Air Travel Basics

Your diabetes management devices are federally protected medical equipment. The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) ensures your right to travel with insulin pumps, CGMs, insulin supplies, and all necessary diabetes management tools.

Key Rights for Diabetes Travelers:

• Insulin pumps and CGMs don't count toward carry-on limits - Medical devices are always allowed in addition to regular luggage
• Insulin is exempt from liquid restrictions - No 3.4 oz limit for medically necessary liquids (must be declared)
• You cannot be required to disconnect insulin pumps during screening - Alternative screening methods must be offered
• Refrigeration must be provided if medically necessary - Airlines must accommodate insulin storage needs
• Testing supplies are always allowed - Lancets, test strips, glucose meters in any quantity

Expert Insight from Dr. Emily Chen, Endocrinologist & Diabetes Travel Specialist: "The biggest mistake diabetes travelers make is not packing enough supplies. Always triple your normal daily needs - flight delays, lost luggage, and time zone changes can disrupt even the best plans."

Pre-Flight Preparation: The Foundation of Successful Travel

Documentation Essentials (Start 2 Weeks Before Travel)

Medical Necessity Letter from Your Doctor:

While not legally required, this letter prevents 90% of travel complications. Include:

• Your name and date of birth
• Diabetes diagnosis and type (Type 1, Type 2, LADA, etc.)
• Complete list of devices (insulin pump brand/model, CGM system)
• List of supplies (insulin types, syringes, lancets, glucose tablets, glucagon)
• Statement of medical necessity for supplies exceeding normal quantities
• Doctor's contact information and medical license number
• Doctor's signature and office stamp/letterhead

Sample Letter Template:

[Doctor's Letterhead]

To Whom It May Concern:

[Patient Name] is under my care for Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and requires the following medical devices and supplies for safe air travel:

- Insulin Pump: [Brand/Model]
- Continuous Glucose Monitor: [Brand/Model]
- Insulin: [Types and quantities]
- Diabetes testing and management supplies

These devices and supplies are medically necessary and must remain with the patient at all times during travel. [Patient Name] should not be required to disconnect insulin delivery devices or expose insulin to X-ray or extreme temperatures.

Please contact me at [phone] if you have questions regarding this patient's medical needs.

Sincerely,
[Doctor Name, MD]
[License Number]

Additional Documentation:

• Insulin pump and CGM user manuals (digital copies on phone work well)
• Prescription labels for all insulin types
• Device specification sheets showing pump/CGM are safe for air travel
• Travel insulin plan from endocrinologist addressing time zone changes
• Emergency contact card with doctor's 24/7 contact information
• Insurance card and policy number (for emergency supplies abroad)

Supply Calculation: The Triple Rule

Always pack 3x your anticipated needs. Here's why:

• Flight delays and cancellations
• Lost or delayed luggage
• Accidental breakage
• Increased insulin needs due to travel stress
• Limited access to supplies at destination

Sample 7-Day Trip Supply List:

If you normally use daily:

• 50 units of insulin
• 3 test strips
• 1 CGM sensor per 10 days
• 1 pump infusion set every 3 days

Pack for 21 days (3x):

• 1,050 units of insulin minimum (two 10mL vials or 4-5 pens)
• 70+ test strips
• 3 CGM sensors
• 7 infusion sets
• 7 pump reservoirs
• Extra batteries for pump and meter
• 2 boxes glucose tablets
• Glucagon emergency kit
• Ketone test strips
• Alcohol wipes and skin prep materials

Pro Tip: Split supplies between carry-on and checked luggage (if checking bags). Keep 2x supplies in carry-on, 1x in checked. Never put insulin or devices in checked bags.

Device Preparation Checklist (48 Hours Before Flight)

Insulin Pump:

• Fully charge pump battery (or install fresh batteries)
• Pack 2-3 extra batteries (in original packaging for TSA)
• Change infusion set to fresh site 24-48 hours before travel (avoid mid-flight failures)
• Clean pump exterior thoroughly
• Verify pump settings and basal rates
• Screenshot pump settings (backup if settings are lost)
• Test pump vibration/alarm mode (useful during flights)

CGM:

• Apply fresh sensor if current sensor expires during trip
• Charge CGM receiver/phone
• Verify CGM app and data sharing are working
• Pack sensor applicators (in original packaging)
• Download recent CGM data to backup

Insulin:

• Check expiration dates on all insulin
• Verify insulin hasn't been frozen or overheated
• Keep insulin in original packaging with pharmacy labels
• Prepare insulated travel case with ice packs (TSA-approved cooling methods)

Testing Supplies:

• Verify meter battery and accuracy
• Pack extra meter and batteries
• Organize test strips in original containers
• Include lancet device and extra lancets
• Pack ketone test strips

TSA Screening: Step-by-Step Protocol for Diabetes Devices

Phase 1: Approaching the Checkpoint

Best Practice Communication:

As you approach the TSA checkpoint, proactively inform officers:

"Good morning! I have Type 1 diabetes and I'm wearing an insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor. I have a prescription and medical letter. I need to avoid X-ray and body scanners for my devices. What's the best way to proceed?"

This statement:

• ✅ Immediately alerts TSA to your medical needs
• ✅ Demonstrates preparation and cooperation
• ✅ Clarifies you need alternative screening
• ✅ Invites TSA guidance on the process

Phase 2: Screening Method Selection

For Insulin Pumps and CGMs Attached to Your Body:

DO NOT go through:

• ❌ X-ray machines (for devices on your body)
• ❌ Full-body scanners (millimeter wave or backscatter)

Manufacturer Guidance Varies:

• Medtronic pumps: Avoid X-ray and body scanners
• Tandem t:slim: Can withstand airport security, but pat-down is safer
• Omnipod: Generally safe through body scanners (verify with current user manual)
• Dexcom CGM: Manufacturer recommends avoiding X-ray
• Freestyle Libre: Can go through body scanner per Abbott guidelines

When in doubt, request pat-down. It takes 5-7 minutes but eliminates any risk of device damage.

Phase 3: Pat-Down Procedure

What to Expect:

1. Notify officer about device locations - "My insulin pump is on my right hip, CGM sensor on my left arm"
2. Request same-gender officer - TSA must honor this request
3. Private screening option - Available if you prefer privacy
4. Visual inspection - Officer will visually inspect devices without touching
5. Pat-down of areas around devices - Light touch around insertion sites, not directly on devices
6. Hand swab - Officer may swab your hands or device exterior for explosive trace detection
7. ETD testing - Swab analyzed in machine (30-60 seconds)
8. Clearance - If no alarms, you're cleared to proceed

Pat-Down Duration: 5-7 minutes (longer during peak travel times)

Phase 4: Insulin and Supply Screening

Insulin Screening:

• Insulin vials and pens go through X-ray (safe for insulin)
• Notify officer about medically necessary liquids
• Insulin quantities exceeding 3.4 oz require additional screening
• Keep insulin in clear plastic bag for visibility
• Officer may open containers for inspection

Cooling Pack Screening:

• Ice packs must be frozen solid to pass through security
• Gel packs are allowed if completely frozen
• Liquid ice packs will be confiscated
• Consider purchasing ice after security or requesting ice on plane

Other Supplies:

• Test strips, lancets, syringes in original packaging when possible
• Glucagon emergency kits can go through X-ray
• Glucose tablets and snacks should be in clear packaging
• Extra infusion sets and CGM sensors in manufacturers' boxes speeds screening

Phase 5: Troubleshooting Common TSA Issues

Issue: "You have to go through the body scanner"

Response: "I have an insulin pump/CGM, and the manufacturer recommends against body scanners. I'm opting for a pat-down. TSA regulations allow this."

Remain calm and polite. If officer insists, request a supervisor immediately.

Issue: "We need to inspect your insulin pump"

Response: "I understand. You can visually inspect it while it's attached to me, but I cannot disconnect it as it's continuously delivering life-sustaining medication. I'm happy to answer any questions."

Offer to show pump screen, settings, or user manual.

Issue: "Your insulin exceeded the liquid limit"

Response: "Insulin is a medically necessary liquid and is exempt from the 3.4 oz limit under TSA regulations. I have a prescription and doctor's letter."

Reference TSA.gov/travel/special-procedures for backup.

On the Plane: In-Flight Diabetes Management

Pre-Flight Preparation (At the Gate)

30 Minutes Before Boarding:

1. Check blood glucose - Aim for 120-180 mg/dL range before boarding
2. Treat lows aggressively - Flights can delay meal service
3. Adjust basal rates if needed - Discuss with endo for long flights
4. Organize supplies in seat pocket - Glucose tablets, test strips, meter within reach
5. Notify flight attendant - Brief introduction about diabetes and where you're sitting

What to Say to Flight Attendants:

"Hi, I'm in seat 12A. I have Type 1 diabetes and I'm wearing an insulin pump. I have all my supplies with me. If you notice me acting confused or unresponsive during the flight, I may be having low blood sugar - please offer me juice or a sugary drink immediately. Thank you!"

Flight attendants appreciate this information and will check on you periodically.

In-Flight Glucose Management

Challenges During Flight:

• Stress hormone release - Flying increases cortisol, potentially raising blood sugar
• Reduced activity - Sitting for hours decreases insulin sensitivity
• Meal timing unpredictability - Service delays disrupt usual eating schedule
• Dehydration - Low cabin humidity affects blood glucose levels
• Time zone changes - Confuses normal basal rate patterns

Strategies:

Every 2 Hours:

• Check blood glucose (or monitor CGM continuously)
• Drink water (bring empty water bottle through security, fill after)
• Walk to bathroom or stretch in seat (improves circulation and insulin sensitivity)

Managing In-Flight Meals:

• Pre-order diabetic meals when booking (though often not significantly better)
• Bring backup snacks - Don't rely solely on airline food
• Bolus conservatively - Better to run slightly high than risk severe low at 30,000 feet
• Set pump reminders - Easy to forget to bolus during movies/entertainment

Altitude and Insulin Pumps:

Cabin pressure changes can cause:

• Air bubbles in tubing - Check tubing after reaching cruising altitude
• Insulin delivery inaccuracies - Small air bubbles can affect dosing
• Pump alarms - Some pumps alarm due to pressure changes

Prevention: Disconnect pump briefly after takeoff, check for bubbles, prime if needed, reconnect.

CGM Considerations at Altitude

CGM Accuracy During Flight:

Some users report CGM readings lag or show temporary inaccuracy during altitude changes due to:

• Interstitial fluid pressure changes
• Dehydration affecting sensor accuracy
• Sensor compression from seatbelt or sleeping position

Best Practice: Confirm CGM readings with fingerstick test if:

• CGM shows rapid rise or fall during altitude changes
• You feel symptoms that don't match CGM reading
• Making treatment decisions for highs or lows

Time Zone Management: Adjusting Insulin Schedules

Understanding the Challenge

Crossing time zones disrupts your insulin pump's programmed basal rates, which are set to your home time zone circadian rhythm.

Key Principle: Your body doesn't instantly adjust to new time zones. Insulin needs change gradually over 2-4 days.

Strategies by Time Zone Change

1-2 Hour Time Difference (Minimal Adjustment Needed)

Approach: Shift pump time immediately upon landing

Steps:

1. Change pump clock to destination time zone when you land
2. Basal rates automatically shift to new time
3. Resume normal eating schedule in new time zone
4. Monitor glucose closely for 24 hours for unexpected changes

3-5 Hour Time Difference (Gradual Adjustment)

Approach: Gradual pump time shift over 24-48 hours

Example: Los Angeles to New York (3 hours ahead)

Day 1 (Travel Day):

• Keep pump on LA time during flight
• Adjust basal rates manually if needed (+/- 10-20%)
• Eat meals on LA schedule initially

Day 2:

• Shift pump forward 1.5 hours in morning
• Eat meals on schedule halfway between LA and NY time
• Monitor glucose every 3-4 hours

Day 3:

• Shift pump remaining 1.5 hours to NY time
• Resume normal meal and basal schedule
• Return to standard monitoring frequency

6+ Hour Time Difference (International Travel)

Approach: Work with endocrinologist to create custom basal rate profile

Options:

Option 1: Temporary Basal Rate (TBR) Method

• Keep pump on home time zone
• Use temporary basal rate adjustments during transition days
• Gradually shift to destination time zone basal rates
• Switch pump to destination time on Day 2-3

Option 2: Dual Time Zone Basal Profile

• Program second basal rate pattern for destination time zone before traveling
• Switch between profiles as you adjust
• Useful for frequent travelers to same destination

Option 3: Stay on Home Time Zone (Short Trips)

• Keep pump on home time (e.g., EST during 3-day European trip)
• Adjust meal timing to pump schedule
• Only viable for trips under 4-5 days

Expert Tip from Maria Rodriguez, Type 1 Diabetes Traveler, 40+ International Flights: "I create a custom basal pattern for each major destination and save it in my pump. Flying to London? I just activate my 'London Profile' and I'm set. Took trial and error to perfect, but now international travel is seamless."

Meal Timing Across Time Zones

The Flexible Approach:

Instead of forcing yourself to eat at "destination times," honor your body's hunger cues during adjustment period.

Days 1-2: Eat when hungry, not by the clock Days 3-4: Gradually shift toward destination meal times Day 5+: Fully adjusted to local eating schedule

International Travel: Country-Specific Considerations

Customs and Border Control

Declaring Medical Devices:

Most countries don't require you to declare diabetes supplies, but some do:

Declare in:

• Australia (large quantities of prescription medications)
• New Zealand (all prescription items)
• United Arab Emirates (insulin requires prior approval)
• Saudi Arabia (prescription medications)

When in doubt, declare. Worst case: brief inspection. Best case: documentation in your passport helps on return.

Language Barriers

Essential Diabetes Phrases in Common Languages:

Spanish:

• "Tengo diabetes tipo uno" (I have type 1 diabetes)
• "Necesito insulina" (I need insulin)
• "Bomba de insulina" (Insulin pump)
• "Azúcar bajo" (Low blood sugar)

French:

• "J'ai le diabète de type un" (I have type 1 diabetes)
• "J'ai besoin d'insuline" (I need insulin)
• "Pompe à insuline" (Insulin pump)
• "Hypoglycémie" (Low blood sugar)

German:

• "Ich habe Typ-1-Diabetes" (I have type 1 diabetes)
• "Ich brauche Insulin" (I need insulin)
• "Insulinpumpe" (Insulin pump)
• "Unterzucker" (Low blood sugar)

Carry translated medical alert card with key phrases and emergency instructions in local language.

Prescription and Pharmacy Differences

Insulin Names Vary Internationally:

U.S. brand names differ abroad:

• Humalog (U.S.) = Humalog (most countries, but different concentration may be available)
• Novolog (U.S.) = NovoRapid (Europe/Asia)
• Lantus (U.S.) = Lantus (international, but check concentration)

Critical: Insulin concentrations differ (U-100 vs. U-200 vs. U-500). Verify concentration matches your pump specifications.

Emergency Insulin Abroad:

Many countries sell rapid-acting insulin over-the-counter (no prescription needed):

• UK: Over-the-counter at pharmacies ("chemists")
• France: Prescription required but available same-day from "pharmacie"
• Mexico: Over-the-counter at "farmacias"
• Australia: Prescription required, but emergency supplies available from hospitals

Bring:

• Copy of insulin prescription with generic names (not just brand names)
• Empty insulin vial showing concentration and type
• Insurance information for international claims

Power and Charging Considerations

International Voltage:

• U.S. Devices: 110V
• Most of World: 220V

Charging Insulin Pumps Abroad:

Most modern insulin pumps use battery (replaceable) rather than rechargeable systems:

• Medtronic pumps: AA battery (available worldwide)
• Tandem t:slim: Rechargeable via USB (works with international adapters)
• Omnipod: No charging needed (single-use pods)

Charging CGM Receivers:

• Dexcom receivers: USB charging (bring international adapter)
• Freestyle Libre reader: Micro USB (bring international adapter)

Essential Travel Gear:

• Universal travel adapter (works in 150+ countries)
• Portable power bank (for smartphone CGM apps)
• Extra pump batteries (even if pump is rechargeable, battery backup is critical)

Emergency Preparedness: When Things Go Wrong

Lost or Damaged Insulin Pump

Immediate Actions:

1. Switch to multiple daily injections (MDI) - This is why you packed extra insulin and syringes
2. Calculate basal insulin needs - Add up your 24-hour basal rates, that's your long-acting dose
3. Continue rapid-acting insulin for meals - Use correction factors and carb ratios from pump
4. Contact pump manufacturer - Many offer emergency loaner pumps
5. Alert your endocrinologist - They can provide MDI guidance remotely

Manufacturer Emergency Numbers:

• Medtronic 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-646-4633 (international: +1-818-576-5555)
• Tandem 24/7 Support: 1-877-801-6901
• Omnipod Customer Service: 1-800-591-3455
• Insulet International: +1-978-600-7850

Loaner Pump Programs:

Medtronic and Tandem offer emergency loaner pumps at major international destinations. Call ahead to arrange pickup.

CGM Sensor Failure or Loss

Backup Plan:

1. Resume frequent fingerstick testing - Every 2-3 hours, plus before meals and bedtime
2. Apply new CGM sensor - This is why you packed extras
3. Wait out sensor warm-up - 2 hours for Dexcom G6, 1 hour for Libre 2
4. Increase awareness - Without real-time alerts, you're relying on symptoms and scheduled tests

Pro Tip: Many travelers wear their CGM sensor for the maximum duration, then apply a new sensor 12-24 hours before it expires, overlapping sensors for continuous data during travel.

Insulin Exposure to Extreme Temperatures

What Happens to Insulin:

• Frozen insulin (below 32°F/0°C): Permanently damaged, must discard
• Overheated insulin (above 86°F/30°C for extended periods): Loses potency over time
• Visible changes: Clumping, discoloration, particles = discard immediately

If Insulin Freezes on Plane or in Hotel:

1. Do not use it - Even if it thaws, effectiveness is compromised
2. Switch to backup insulin immediately
3. Contact hotel or airline - Some travel insurance covers medication replacement
4. Purchase replacement - Find local pharmacy or hospital

Preventing Temperature Damage:

• Never check insulin in luggage (cargo holds can freeze)
• Use insulated travel case with temperature monitoring
• Request mini-fridge in hotel room (usually free for medical needs)
• Keep insulin away from windows in hotel (sunlight and heat exposure)
• Bring backup insulin in separate bag (in case one supply is exposed)

Severe Hypoglycemia Abroad

If You Experience Severe Low Blood Sugar:

1. Treat immediately - Glucose tablets, juice, regular soda
2. Alert travel companions - They should know how to administer glucagon
3. Seek medical attention if:
   • Glucagon needed
   • Multiple severe lows in 24 hours
   • Confusion or loss of consciousness

Glucagon Administration Abroad:

• Baqsimi nasal glucagon: No mixing required, easy for travel companions to use
• GlucaGen or Glucagon Emergency Kit: Requires mixing, but works reliably
• Travel companions should practice before trip

Finding Emergency Care:

• U.S. Embassy/Consulate: Can provide list of English-speaking medical facilities
• Hotel concierge: Often knows nearest hospital or clinic
• Travel insurance hotline: Can direct you to network providers

Diabetes Travel Insurance: Is It Worth It?

Short Answer: Yes, especially for international travel.

What Diabetes Travel Insurance Covers:

• Emergency medical care abroad for diabetes complications
• Medical evacuation if local facilities can't provide appropriate care
• Lost or stolen insulin/supplies replacement costs
• Trip cancellation due to diabetes-related medical emergency before departure
• Trip interruption if you need to return home due to diabetes complications

Recommended Providers (with Diabetes Coverage):

1. World Nomads - Covers pre-existing conditions including diabetes (with policy upgrade)
2. Allianz Global Assistance - Comprehensive medical and trip coverage
3. IMG Global - Strong international medical coverage for chronic conditions
4. Travel Guard - Covers diabetes-related trip cancellation and medical emergencies

Cost: Approximately $50-150 per week of travel, depending on destination and age.

Worth It If:

• Traveling internationally (especially to countries with expensive healthcare)
• Trip cost exceeds $2,000
• You have history of diabetes complications
• Traveling to remote areas with limited medical facilities

Destination-Specific Tips: Popular Travel Locations

Europe

Advantages:

• Excellent healthcare systems
• Insulin available over-the-counter in many countries (UK, France, Spain)
• English widely spoken in medical settings
• Pharmacies ("chemists") common and well-stocked

Challenges:

• Different insulin concentrations (verify U-100 vs. U-200)
• Meal timing differs from U.S. (dinner at 9-10 PM in Spain, Italy)
• Walking-intensive tourism (pack extra glucose tablets)

Caribbean & Mexico

Advantages:

• Close to U.S. (easy to return home if major issues)
• Many all-inclusive resorts with medical staff
• Insulin available over-the-counter in Mexico
• Warm climate (insulin doesn't freeze, but heat precautions needed)

Challenges:

• High heat and humidity (insulin storage critical)
• Different insulin brands and names
• English less common outside tourist areas

Asia

Advantages:

• Modern medical facilities in major cities (Bangkok, Singapore, Tokyo)
• Affordable healthcare if needed
• 24/7 pharmacies common in cities

Challenges:

• Significant time zone changes (12+ hours from U.S.)
• Language barriers (bring translated medical documents)
• Different insulin brands and availability
• Dietary differences (carb counting for unfamiliar foods)

Cruises

Advantages:

• Medical staff on board (ship doctor and nurses)
• Refrigeration available in cabin for insulin
• Controlled dining environment (easier carb counting)
• No time zone changes (until port stops)

Challenges:

• Limited CGM connectivity (metal ship structure interferes with some systems)
• Buffet-style dining (temptation and difficult carb estimation)
• Seasickness can affect blood sugar and appetite
• Limited options if supplies run out (can't run to pharmacy)

Cruise Preparation:

• Contact cruise line 30 days before departure about insulin refrigeration
• Bring 4x supplies (can't easily replace mid-cruise)
• Alert ship's doctor to your cabin location and diabetes management

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I go through airport full-body scanners with my insulin pump? A: Manufacturer recommendations vary. Most suggest requesting pat-down instead to avoid potential device damage. TSA must accommodate this request.

Q: How do I keep insulin cool on a plane? A: Use insulated diabetes travel case with frozen gel packs (must be completely frozen to pass TSA). Request ice from flight attendants. Most flights are climate-controlled, so insulin at room temp for a few hours is fine.

Q: What if my CGM sensor expires during my flight? A: Resume fingerstick testing. Apply new sensor after landing (some airports have private restrooms or medical rooms for this). For long international flights, consider applying fresh sensor before departure.

Q: Do I need to tell the airline I have diabetes before my flight? A: Not required, but helpful for international flights. Some airlines note medical conditions and can provide assistance if needed. Definitely inform flight attendants once on board.

Q: Can I bolus insulin during takeoff and landing? A: Yes, insulin pumps are allowed to operate during all phases of flight. They're medical devices, not restricted electronics.

Q: What if I run out of insulin abroad? A: Contact local pharmacies or hospitals. In many countries, rapid-acting insulin is available over-the-counter. Bring empty vial to show exact type and concentration needed. Your travel insurance may cover replacement costs.

Q: How do I prevent my CGM from setting off metal detectors? A: CGMs typically don't trigger metal detectors (mostly plastic components). If they do, explain it's a medical device and request pat-down.

Q: Should I adjust my basal rates for time zone changes immediately? A: Not for the first 24 hours. Keep pump on home time initially, then gradually transition over 2-3 days. Consult your endocrinologist for custom plan.

Final Checklist: Diabetes Air Travel Preparation

2 Weeks Before:

• Schedule appointment with endocrinologist
• Request medical necessity letter
• Review insulin pump settings and basal rates
• Order extra supplies (CGM sensors, infusion sets, insulin)
• Research destination healthcare facilities and pharmacies
• Purchase travel insurance with diabetes coverage

1 Week Before:

• Organize all supplies (triple your usual needs)
• Print medical documents and prescriptions
• Prepare translated diabetes phrases for destination
• Test all devices (pump, CGM, meter) for functionality
• Pack backup meter and batteries

48 Hours Before:

• Change infusion set to fresh site
• Apply new CGM sensor (if current expires during trip)
• Charge all rechargeable devices fully
• Prepare insulated insulin travel case
• Pack glucose tablets and emergency snacks in carry-on

Day of Travel:

• Check blood glucose before leaving for airport
• Bring all supplies in carry-on (NEVER checked luggage)
• Carry medical letter and prescriptions in hand
• Inform TSA officers about devices immediately
• Alert flight attendants about diabetes once boarded

Conclusion: Empowered Diabetes Travel

Flying with insulin pumps and CGMs requires extra preparation, but millions of people with diabetes travel successfully every year. The key is:

✅ Thorough preparation - Triple supplies, complete documentation ✅ Clear communication - TSA, airlines, travel companions all informed ✅ Flexibility - Blood sugars may not be perfect during travel, and that's okay ✅ Backup plans - Know what to do if devices fail or supplies are lost

You deserve to travel and experience the world. Diabetes doesn't define your limits - preparation does. With the strategies in this guide, you'll board every flight confidently, knowing you're ready for anything.

Safe travels, and keep your blood sugars and spirits high!

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