Festival Season & Type 1 Diabetes: Your Ultimate Survival Guide
Festival season is upon us, and having Type 1 diabetes shouldn't stop you from enjoying the music and fun. With the right preparation, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
FIRST THINGS FIRST!
If the following questions are what's stopping you or putting you off festivals, then PLEASE READ!
Should I be worried about carrying my kitbag? Absolutely not! Everyone will be carrying either a shoulder bag, waistbelt, or backpack.. There'll be no visible difference.
I'm not sure I want to drink alcohol. Are there other options? That's not a problem, there are plenty of other choices, and if you do decide you want to, that's fine too! Just not too much.
Remember to keep hydrated, eat something carby before sleep, and regularly check your blood sugars - lows are more likely after alcohol. When it comes to festivals, you don't have to worry or stop yourself because you think it'll be "too much hassle".
Essential Packing List for T1D Festival-Goers
Ensure you have the following items packed:
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Insulin & Delivery Devices: Bring your insulin pens, pump, or syringes, along with spares.
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Blood Glucose Monitoring Supplies: Include your meter, test strips, and continuous glucose monitor (CGM) if you use one.
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Hypo Treatments: Carry glucose tablets, gels, or sugary snacks.
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Snacks: Pack slow-release carbohydrate snacks to maintain blood sugar levels.
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Cooling Equipment: Use a Frio wallet or cool bag to keep insulin at the right temperature.
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Medical ID: Wear a medical alert bracelet or carry an ID card indicating your condition.
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Doctor's Note: Obtain a letter explaining your need to carry medical supplies and food.
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Hand Sanitizer: Maintain hygiene, especially before handling medical equipment.
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Comfortable Footwear: Protect your feet with sturdy, closed-toe shoes.
Top Tips for Managing Diabetes at Festivals
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Inform Your Friends: Let them know! And how they can assist in an emergency.
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Set Reminders: Use your phone to schedule insulin doses and blood sugar checks.
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Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
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Locate Medical Facilities: Identify the nearest first aid tents upon arrival.
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Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Check your levels regularly, especially after dancing or consuming alcohol.
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Limit Alcohol Intake: Alcohol can affect blood sugar; drink responsibly and never on an empty stomach.
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Avoid Recreational Drugs: They can interfere with blood sugar control and overall health.
We were able to visit Latitude for the whole weekend!It was a very hot weekend, so we were always with a water bottle, ice cream and SPF at hand! Spare insulin was in a Frio, we also had a spare pump and CGM patches just in case!
Here's the full list:
• Medical ID Blood Glucose Meter & Test Strips
• Vials of Insulin
• Insulin Long & Short Pens
• Spare CGM Sensors
• Spare Infusion Sets/Pods
• Batteries for Pump/BG Meter
• SkinTac/SkinGlu
Extra Tips:
Always have a water bottle handy✔
When you arrive, be sure to locate the welfare tent in case of emergencies✔
Make sure friends know you have Diabetes for your safety✔
Like any day out or trip away, we always make sure we have at least the essentials and 'Just in Case' things. It's so easy to forget to top up - oh, and don't forget to change your lancet!! You can easily dispose of your sharps in a handy pocket sharps bin.
We carry alcohol-free baby wipes with us into the arena - alcohol hand gel in festival toilets can affect your BG readings. You may wish to bring glucose tablets rather than drinks if the festival has a strict no liquids policy. Check the terms and conditions or medical policy - you may need to bring a letter from your clinic or a copy of your prescription.
🎉 Enjoy the Festival Safely
With careful planning and awareness, you can fully immerse yourself in the festival experience. Remember to listen to your body, stay prepared, and most importantly, have fun!
