When the weather is beautiful, nothing beats camping trips or long road trips with family. But when you’re traveling with a loved one who has T1D, preparation becomes just as important as the destination.
My younger sister, Ava, loves exploring the outdoors — whether it’s camping by a lake, swimming, or long car rides to national parks. But T1D doesn’t take a vacation, so we’ve learned how to pack smart and stay ready, while still having fun. A small cooler is a lifesaver. We never leave for a long trip without a small lunch-pail-sized cooler in the car. Inside, we keep:
- Ava’s insulin (both her fast-acting and her long-acting Lantus)
- Spare insulin pens, in case one malfunctions
- Ice packs (but not freezing cold — just enough to keep insulin cool and safe)
We bring an extra glucose monitor and test strips. Sometimes technology can glitch or get lost in travel bags, and having a backup gives peace of mind. Ava’s Dexcom can sometimes peel off after time in the pool or at the lake. We always pack:
- Sunscreen (applied around, but not directly under, the Dexcom site)
- KT tape or Dexcom covers to help keep the sensor secure
- Alcohol wipes to prep the skin before applying a new sensor, if needed
After long active days, Ava’s numbers can swing. We check her glucose levels closely before bed, especially after a full day of swimming, and keep juice boxes or glucose tabs nearby. Despite all this planning, these trips are filled with laughter, campfire stories, and new memories. T1D is part of the trip — not a reason to avoid adventure. Ava is proof that you can explore the outdoors, swim, hike, and enjoy every moment… with a little extra care and a lot of family support.
LifeBeyondTheNumbers 
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