OVERVIEW
DIABETES
For comprehensive information on airport security and diabetes please visit Breakththrough T1D webpage. Some of the excellent information on their page is provided below:
Going through security scanners
All departing passengers must complete security screening prior to entering the departures area.
The technology used in this area may not be compatible with medical equipment used in the management of diabetes including insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors.
From June 2024, UK airports are changing the devices they use to scan people going through security and their carry-on luggage. Manufacturers of insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGM) advise that most technology should not pass through these new scanners, either through the full body scanners or on the carry-on luggage belt.
These new scanners will be in place across the UK by June 2025.
What tech can you carry through the scanners?
Manufacturers of CGMs and insulin have their own guidance on which devices can go through metal detectors, x-rays and full body scanners at airports. For example, the Dexcom G7 and Dexcom ONE+ are safe to go through full body scanners, but the G6 and Dexcom ONE are not. Check the manufacturers websites or contact them for more information before you travel.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Child Diabetes Travel Check List
Take 2 to 3 times the amount of supplies required and split into separate containers in case of loss or damage. Must be in hand luggage.
- Insulin Pen and insulin cartridges and pen needles.
- NovoRapid Insulin cartridges and pen (in case of illness while away).
- Blood Glucose meter and plenty of testing strips.
- Finger pricker and lancets.
- Blood Ketone meter and test strips.
- GlucoGel for Hypoglycaemia.
- Glucagon Injection (for emergency use) – check the expiry date.
- Plastic sharps bin.
- Cool pack, e.g. Frio in which to keep supplies.
- Letter for Customs (ask your diabetes nurse to complete/ sign this).
- Extra snacks for journey.
- Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). These are available FREE online
- Diabetes Identification card/bracelet etc.
- Record Book.
- Antibiotics if required for recurrent infections.
- Tummy bug treatment, e.g. Dioralyte / immodium
- Holiday Insurance (Diabetes should be declared).
HELPFUL RESOURCES
To help you during your trip, you can download and print a Medical Device Awareness card which is fully backed by the Civil Aviation Authority and recognised by most airports.
This card offers an alternative to using a Sunflower Lanyard, if preferred.
Download the Medical Device Awareness Card here.
Sign up to the Diabetic Travellers Network to receive their Travel with Diabetes Checklist
Many airports provide a hidden disability lanyard for people travelling with type 1.
They can be collected free of charge from special assistance desks in airports or to purchase one before you travel visit the HDSunflower website