Traveling tips when flying

Check with your airline, but based on my experience, I asked for pat down and not going through scanner. And, my bags to be hand checked. A medical supply bag is not counted as a carry on. Make sure you have prescription for the insulin, supplies, etc. No one has ever asked to see it. I have a pump so lots of backup supplies. Snacks go in the medical bag too.

Carry on- You will need a doctors letter for the apple juice. Apple juice is served on AA or in the airport after security. You do not say which airline you are traveling on. Yes, tsa allows needles. All medication must be in original bottles. DO NOT CHECK Medications. The reason is if your luggage gets lost or your flight is diverted you will not have your medications. Snacks anything without liquids. I take peaches, nectarines, grapes or sandwiches.
You are allowed 3.5 ounces of liquids that go in a zip lock baggie that does include lotion and makeup. If more than 3.5 ounces it will be discarded. I worked in the airline industry for years.

@karenps I agree with all the great tips other members gave you: a carry on bag for all your prescriptions & medical gear plus frozen gel packs to keep meds (like insulin) cold. Your doctor can give you a letter explaining your need for this. I keep a copy in my luggage and have one in my purse too. I keep suitable snacks in the glove compartment of the car, the night stand by my bed and my purse so that if the low blood sugar strikes I have what I need readily available. Glucose tablets &/or gel can stay there indefinitely because there’s no need for refrigeration. Life Saver candies are a good option too. Also, not a liquid to worry about (spilling or size). Regarding liquids, buy travel size hygiene products and put in a make up like bag in checked baggage. You can use zip lock bags around them too if you’re worried about spillage. If something (God forbid) happens to your luggage, that stuff is easily replaced when you get there. Or chances are you can mooch off of your friends. It is your personal medical stuff that requires most care.
I’ve never had a problem going through the scanners with my devices on my body but it has been awhile since I’ve traveled. They can run their wand like thing around / over you. The “pat down” term creeps me out and sounds like prison. Have them hand check the carry on. Have your Dr. letter document handy to present. Enjoy your trip and seeing your friends. Let us know how it goes?

There is one more thing I think you should do.
Anytime you have a trip you need to have a sheet of paper in your luggage or on you With the following information
Your name
Address
Your doctor’s name
Phone number
And address or name of the Clinic
Emergency contact people
Insurance information
Are you on Medicare?
Or a secondary insurance company
A number of years ago, I talked with a security guard at a hotel in Las Vegas. He’s faded that they have people getting very sick and passing away every day in the hotel.
One of the hardest things for them to find is information about the person that is sick. The information of Above can help them get you help fast faster.

@artemis1886 I appreciate your response and will def remember to go through your list

My wife is a type one diabetic and where is that Dexcom G7. Here are a few things we’ve learned along the way.
1. Have your doctor write a note Indicating that because of your medical condition, you must carry insulin and syringes and other diabetic supplies. We have used that here in the states and when traveling abroad, but especially when traveling abroad.
2. Before going through the security line, tell them that you’re a diabetic and that you wear the G7 and they will instruct you. Usually that to the machine where you stand inside, raise your arms and it scans your entire body.
3. When we have tried to take Apple juice, glycerin, etc. through the security line, It has been confiscated if Had been opened. If still sealed, And they have wanted to confiscate, the key phrase is “ I am a diabetic. I carry this For emergency purposes in case my blood sugar is goes low.
4. Pack your diabetic supplies together. My wife carries insulin pens versus syringes and insulin in a vile, which certainly helps. Either way, make sure everything is clearly labeled.
5. Having TSA pre-check if ayou can afford it is well worth the few dollars, Even if you don’t travel often.
6. Depending on the length of our trip, we pack a few extra drinks, In the suitcase, but always carry one apple juice or cranberry juice and a Glucerna on board. Her diabetic supplies always stay with her and never go in checked baggage.

I’m sure there’s other things that are just not coming to mind right now. Safe travels.

Burt

@brosen Thanks so much for all this info. I think I forgot to reply to you ~ very helpful tips!
Karen