The minivan, the open road, passing cornfields, roadside diners, and the hourly “are we there yet?” question. Ahhh — the pleasures of the family road trip. Taking a trip by car brings its own unique set of challenges to people living with diabetes. Prolonged sitting, road fatigue, truck stop dining, and should-have-turned-left-at-the-last-exit-but-won't-ask-for-directions syndrome are just a few of the roadblocks you may have to overcome.

Stop and stretch often to get your circulation going and cut fatigue. It's a good idea to check your glucose levels at each rest stop as well. Again, pack snacks just in case you get waylaid, and don't count on the next restaurant being quite so far. A cooler is an excellent idea if you'll be traveling long stretches of remote highways. A cell phone is also essential for rural travel in case a breakdown leaves you stranded or you have a medical emergency.

Make sure all insulin, testing kits, and medication are stored in a place that won't get excessively hot or cold. Trunks, glove compartments, and dashboards are all bad spots to keep your supplies. If you're traveling in hot weather and you stop for a food or road break, do not leave your supplies and/or medication in the car unless you have a cooler to store them in. On a 73-degree day, in just ten minutes temperatures can reach 100° and higher in a car with the windows rolled up, which is bound to make your insulin go bad and possibly damage your meter and other equipment.

Be Prepared

Whether you're going by plane, train, or automobile, there are some basics you should carry along with your toothbrush and clean underwear. These include the following:

• A first-aid kit, including antibiotic ointment and bandages

• Extra medication and insulin

• Blood glucose meter with an ample supply of test strips, alcohol swabs, and lancets

• Extra batteries for your meter

• Emergency supply of fast-acting glucose

• Extra pump supplies (if applicable)

• Plenty of snacks, including fast-acting carbs

Always travel with twice the amount of medication and/or insulin you would normally require for the time you'll be gone. The same goes for blood glucose testing supplies. If you are delayed for weather or any other unexpected reason, your foresight will save you a lot of scrambling about trying to get a prescription filled in an unfamiliar place.

A sturdy, watertight supply case is a must for anyone who travels frequently. For those who take insulin, a case that is well padded and insulated to keep vials or pens at their proper temperature is also important. Finally, remember that your supplies should always be transported as carryon bags versus checked luggage to avoid any problems with lost bags and missing meters and medications.