The Ultimate T1D Day Out Survival Kit: What to Pack
A day out with a child who has Type 1 Diabetes requires the organisational skills of a military general and the packing abilities of Mary Poppins. No matter how quick or simple the trip seems, you can guarantee that the one time you don’t pack extra snacks or insulin, you’ll need them!
So, to save you the panic of rummaging through your bag while your child’s blood sugar is plummeting, here’s the ultimate checklist of what to bring on a day out- whether you have a toddler, child or teen with Type 1 Diabetes.
1. The Non-Negotiables (AKA The Bare Minimum You Need to Leave the House!)
If you’re dashing out for a couple of hours and don’t want to lug a giant bag around, these are your absolute must-haves:
Blood glucose meter or CGM (plus extra test strips, if needed)
Insulin pens or pump supplies (plus spare insulin if it’s a long day)
Hypo treatments (glucose tablets, fruit juice cartons, jelly babies, or whatever works best for your child)
Snacks (because T1D loves to surprise you!)
Water bottle (hydration helps with blood sugar control)
Ketone strips or blood ketone meter (especially if they’re prone to highs)
If you’ve got these essentials, you can just about survive a short trip. But let’s be real- most days out require a little more preparation.
2. The “We’re Going to Be Out for a While” Kit
For a full day trip- think theme parks, museums or seaside adventures- you’ll need a more comprehensive bag of supplies. Here’s what to add:
SPARES, SPARES, SPARES!
Extra insulin pens/ pump supplies (if using a pump, bring a spare site & reservoir)
Extra test strips or CGM sensors (because tech loves to fail at the worst times)
Spare hypo treatments (double what you think you’ll need- kids burn energy fast!)
Spare snacks (slow-acting carbs like oat bars, nuts, or cheese crackers)
Spare water bottle (hydration is key for high blood sugars)
CHANGE OF CLOTHES (FOR TODDLERS & YOUNGER CHILDREN)
Sometimes treating a hypo gets messy. Spilled juice, sticky hands- a spare top at the very least can be a lifesaver.
EXTRA DIABETES SUPPLIES
A small sharps container or a resealable plastic tub for used needles/ lancets
Alcohol wipes (especially useful if hands aren’t clean before testing)
A little notebook & pen (in case you need to jot down carbs, doses or timings)
WEATHER-RELATED EXTRAS
For hot days: Frio pouch for insulin (to keep it cool), hat, sunscreen
For cold days: Hand warmers (if your child’s hands get too cold, testing can be tricky), extra layers
3. The “We’re Miles from Home” Kit (For Big Adventures & Overnight Stays!)
If you’re heading off on a long trip or an overnight stay, you’ll want to over-pack rather than under-pack. Some extras to consider:
EMERGENCY SUPPLIES
Glucagon injection (for severe hypos)
Medical ID bracelet (if your child doesn’t already wear one)
A printed copy of their care plan (useful if someone else might need to step in)
Contact numbers for your diabetes team (just in case)
EXTRA BACKUPS FOR TECH USERS
Spare CGM transmitter (if applicable)
Backup blood glucose meter (because technology is wonderful…until it isn’t)
Extra batteries/ charging cable for insulin pump or CGM receiver
MORE FOOD OPTIONS
Instant slow-release snacks (flapjacks, cereal bars, crackers)
Ready-made meals or sandwich options (useful if eating out isn’t guaranteed)
4. The “Making Life Easier” Extras
While not essential, these can make the day run a lot smoother:
A compact, insulated lunch bag (keeps insulin and snacks at the right temp)
A small backpack or waist bag for your child/teen (older children may prefer carrying their own essentials)
Tupperware or zip-lock bags (for half eaten snacks, used test strips or carb-counting restaurant leftovers!)
Pre-but hypo treatments (if you’re using things like jelly babies, portion them out beforehand for faster hypo responses)
5. Tips for Different Ages
For Toddlers & Nursery Age:
Pack double the snacks- they’re always hungry and always on the move!
Bring distractions for finger pricks or injections (stickers, little toys or their favourite video on your phone)
Have a spare comfort toy- diabetes care can feel overwhelming, and something familiar helps
For Primary-Age Children:
Let them help pack their own bag so they feel involved in their care
Bring extra entertainment (books, colouring, or games) for downtime between meals
Give them a small role in their diabetes management (e.g., checking their own CGM reading)
For Teens:
Encourage them to carry their own supplies (but still double-check before leaving the house!)
Keen an extra hypo stash in your own bag- because they might forget
Have a backup payment method for emergency food/snacks if they’re out with friends
Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, But Don’t Let Diabetes Rule the Day!
Packing for a child with Type 1 Diabetes can feel overwhelming, but once you’ve got your go-to kit sorted, it becomes second nature. The most important thing? Be prepared, but don’t let diabetes take over the fun.
If you forget something? You’ll improvise. If blood sugars go a bit wild? You’ll handle it. You are already doing an amazing job, and your child can absolutely enjoy life just like anyone else.
Now, go enjoy your day- and don’t forget the snacks!