Dismiss Modal

Management

Your Diabetes Tool Kit

Choose a preferred language

Do you find it hard to keep track of your supplies? Make it easy by putting together a diabetes tool kit. Find a small makeup or travel bag. Then fill it with what you need to care for your diabetes. Keep the bag with you on an airplane. Don't check it with your luggage. The list of supplies below can help you get started.

Diabetes toolkit showing log book, glucometer, insulin pen, medication bottles, insulin, glucose tablets, lancet, test strips, syringe, medicalert bracelet, and ID card.


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.

© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Make an Appointment

Make an Appointment

Find a Doctor

Find a Doctor

Find a Location

Find a Location

Related Services

Outpatient Specialty Care

Related Articles
Read article
Diabetes
Diabetes with High Blood Sugar

If you have been high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), it may be because of an infection or other illness, eating too many sweets or starches, or not taking enough insulin. This sheet can help you care for yourself at home.

Read article
Diabetes
Managing Type 1 Diabetes

Diabetes is a lifelong condition. Managing your diabetes means making some changes that may be hard. And it means taking good care of yourself.

Read article
Diabetes
Getting Support When You Have Diabetes

The job of controlling your blood sugar is mostly up to you. But your diabetes healthcare team is there to help. These experts will teach you how to manage diabetes and the health risks it brings. With practice, controlling your blood sugar will become a habit.

Read article
Diabetes
What Is Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)?

Continuous glucose monitoring is a way to track your blood sugar around the clock.