Supplies

What supplies should I take?

A good rule of thumb is to pack double the amount of supplies you think you would normally need, just in case you run into any problems. These supplies include:

• Extra pump batteries
• Insulin (and appropriate storage container)
• Pump supplies
• Insulin pen or syringes
• Ketone strips
• Glucagon emergency kit
• Blood sugar testing equipment
• Carbohydrate for treating hypos and extra food, such as nutrition bars, which are easy to carry

Also consider:

• Contact details of your doctor, diabetes educator and diabetes services at your destination
• Taking a doctor’s letter stating that you have diabetes and carry an insulin pump
• Taking written prescriptions for insulin and other medication you need
• Taking written prescriptions for pump supplies (some countries may/may not require one for purchase)
• Wearing or carrying medical ID indicating you have diabetes and that you are on an insulin pump
• Taking medication for diarrhoea and nausea
• Taking your pump manual and a list of all your pump settings
• Writing down useful phrases in the language of your destination, e.g. “I have diabetes, please give me some sugar or something to eat.”
• Checking that it’s okay to take your supplies into your country of destination

When flying, always carry all your pump supplies in your carry-on luggage, just in case your checked luggage is lost, or you’re delayed for extended periods. Insulin left in checked luggage may also be exposed to extreme temperatures.

Pump supplies may be more expensive when buying in another country, or your particular supplies may not be available, so be sure to check with us first by calling Medtronic Diabetes on 1800 777 808.

Going on holiday overseas with a pump?

Travel smarter and take a spare pump with you. If you are travelling overseas and would like to loan a spare pump, simply download the Travel Loan Pump Form, fill it out, and send it back to us at australia.diabetes@medtronic.com.