Travel and type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is not an inherent barrier to travel, but planning is essential for both domestic and international travel.

All patients should carry documentation of their diabetes history, current medications and equipment, including written documentation in the language of the country of destination. This is essential if medical attention is needed while travelling or to prove need for medication and equipment when passing through customs or border security when travelling overseas.

Patients with type 2 diabetes who are using insulin should follow advice for patients with type 1 diabetes who are travelling (see Travel and type 1 diabetes).

In case of hypoglycaemia, both fast-acting carbohydrate (eg jelly beans, glucose tablets) and slower-acting carbohydrate (eg sandwich, dried fruit, dry biscuit) should be carried in hand luggage. As travellers often eat foods that are different from their normal diet, extra care is needed. All patients should have their sick-day management plans reviewed before travelling; see Sick-day management for adults with type 2 diabetes.

Encourage all long-distance travellers with diabetes to remain ambulant if possible before, during and after travelling. During travel, leg exercises should be performed while seated. This activity may help to maintain blood glucose concentrations within target range and prevent deep vein thrombosis.

The Diabetes Australia website has comprehensive information to assist patients with type 2 diabetes (particularly those who use insulin) to plan for travelling. The Australian Government Smartraveller website has comprehensive advice (including about vaccinations) for all patients travelling out of Australia.