A. Kelsey Metcalf writes monthly columns about diabetes and travel as well as parenting as a diabetic. She has had type 1 diabetes for 29 years and visited four continents. To read her full ‘Experts’ bio, click here.
Navigating the world of air travel these days is a daunting endeavor indeed. Throw a tidy little wrench like Type 1 diabetes into the effort – well, then the fun truly begins. With both injections and an insulin pump I have traveled quite a bit and encountered a broad spectrum of security experiences. Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned for frazzle-free flight…
* Follow the Rules… Kinda:
Since September 11, 2001, the updated security procedures for checking yourself and your baggage in for a flight have ranged from the responsible to the ridiculous. Take my shoes off? Check. Put liquids in little bottles, then put little bottles in little baggie, and leave the little baggie out of my carry-on luggage? Fine. Tell security that I’m wearing an insulin pump? Heck, NO.
When it comes to declaring my supplies or pump, I follow the ‘don’t tell, if they don’t ask’ rule. My insulin pump has set off the occasional store alarm, but never an airport metal detector. The first few times I flew with it, I dutifully told the security representative that I had a pump. The result was that I was pulled to the side, patted down, wanded, and in one case in Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, subjected to a search through my carry-on – just for good measure, it seemed.
I follow every single rule, but I don’t announce my contraband. Generally I tuck my pump in the pocket of my pants and wear a blouse that will disguise any tell-tale (hey, take your phone out of your pocket!) bulge. The numerous times I don’t get stopped for it greatly outweigh the few times I do. If you do get stopped, expect to be asked to step aside and show the representative your pump. They may ask you to take it off. If this happens, just show them the tubing, tell them you can’t, and they should back down. They may ask you to press a button or “turn it on” and/or pass a rag or cotton swab over your pump to test for chemicals or … whatever. If this happens, do what you’re told and follow this next tip.
* Be Nice, SUPER Nice:
They’re not out to get you or me or anyone else.. only the bad guys. Airport personnel are just doing their jobs. And while there may be a few on a power trip from the uniform and/or badge they proudly wear, they too will respond to kindness. The BEST way to delay your progress to your gate is by ridiculing or arguing with security personnel. Trust me, I know. My husband does not take my tips to heart…
* Like a Boy Scout, Be Prepared:
Before traveling to a country where you do not speak the language, find someone who does and ask them to translate “Diabetes, on insulin or insulin pump” and write it on an index card. Keep it with you. Not only will it help in a medical emergency, but it will help you through security if the guards want to know what’s up with all your supplies. I did this for a trip to China and found it helpful when boarding a flight from Shanghai to Beijing.
* Get your Letter of Medical Necessity:
This letter became a staple of my emergency kit immediately after 9/11 and it will never leave my side. I’ve only had to brandish it for three or four flights, but I shudder to think what would have happened if I hadn’t had it. In one case in Manchester, NH, I’m sure that they wouldn’t have allowed me to board the plane with my syringes if I didn’t have the note. Ask your doctor for the letter or download the sample letter here (PDF) and provide it to him. He or she should type it on letterhead and fill in the relevant information.
• Be Early, Often:
Plan on getting stopped and leave extra time for that event. Sure, you may end up bored in the airport, but I personally find that preferable to missing a flight or running frantically through an airport carrying all my bags after being stopped by security (as happened to me recently leaving London).
(Each of the Expert columns are based on the experiences and knowledge of the individual columnists. The columns are meant to provide you with helpful information, but are not meant to be considered direct advice. Before making any decisions that could affect your health, make sure to contact a physician or the appropriate medical professional.)
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