Whether you’re heading off on a sunny beach holiday, exploring a new city, or embarking on an adventure overseas, travelling with diabetes requires a little extra planning, especially when it comes to your feet.
People living with diabetes are at increased risk of developing foot problems due to reduced circulation and nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy). While these issues can be managed effectively at home, travelling often means changes to routine, increased walking, different climates, and unfamiliar footwear, all of which can increase the risk of foot injuries.
With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy your holiday while keeping your feet healthy and comfortable.
Before You Travel
Schedule a Foot Check
If you’re due a diabetic foot assessment, try to arrange it before you travel. A podiatrist can identify any potential concerns and address issues such as corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, or areas of pressure before they become problematic during your trip.
Pack a Foot Care Kit
Include:
- Comfortable, well-fitting footwear
- Several pairs of moisture-wicking socks
- A small first aid kit with plasters and dressings
- Moisturiser suitable for diabetic skin
- Any prescribed medications
- Contact details for your healthcare provider
It’s always wise to pack these items in your hand luggage, particularly on longer journeys.
Choose Your Footwear Carefully
One of the most common mistakes travellers make is taking brand-new shoes on holiday. While they may look great, unfamiliar footwear can quickly lead to blisters and pressure points.
Choose shoes that:
- Have been worn and tested beforehand
- Fit comfortably with adequate room for the toes
- Provide good support and cushioning
- Are appropriate for the activities you’ll be doing
If your holiday involves a lot of sightseeing, supportive walking shoes or trainers are often the best option.
Never Walk Barefoot
Warm climates and beautiful beaches can make it tempting to kick off your shoes, but for people with diabetes, walking barefoot carries significant risks.
You may not feel cuts, burns, splinters, or sharp objects if you have reduced sensation in your feet. Even hot sand, poolside surfaces, or sun-heated paving can cause burns without you realising.
Always wear appropriate footwear, even around swimming pools, on beaches, and in hotel rooms.
Check Your Feet Every Day
Travelling often means spending more time on your feet than usual. Increased walking can cause friction and pressure, making daily foot inspections especially important.
Look out for:
- Blisters
- Cuts or scratches
- Redness
- Swelling
- Changes in skin colour
- Areas of rubbing from footwear
If you struggle to see the soles of your feet, use a mirror or ask a travelling companion to help.
Stay Hydrated
Hot weather can contribute to dehydration, which may affect circulation and blood glucose management.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day and try to avoid prolonged exposure to excessive heat, particularly during peak sun hours.
Moisturise Carefully
Sun, sand, air conditioning, and increased walking can all leave skin dry and cracked.
Apply moisturiser daily to keep the skin supple, but avoid applying cream between the toes, where excess moisture can encourage fungal infections.
Be Prepared for Minor Problems
Even with the best planning, issues can occasionally arise.
If you develop a blister, cut, or wound:
- Clean the area carefully
- Cover it with an appropriate dressing
- Monitor it closely
- Seek medical attention promptly if it shows signs of infection or fails to heal
For people with diabetes, even small foot injuries should never be ignored.
Know When to Seek Help
While abroad, seek medical advice if you notice:
- Redness spreading around a wound
- Swelling
- Discharge or pus
- Increasing pain
- Changes in skin colour
- Signs of infection
- A wound that is not healing
Prompt treatment can prevent a minor problem from becoming a serious complication.
Enjoy Your Holiday with Confidence
Travelling with diabetes shouldn’t stop you from enjoying new experiences and making wonderful memories. A little preparation, sensible footwear choices, and daily foot care can go a long way in keeping your feet healthy throughout your trip.
If you’re planning a holiday and would like a diabetic foot assessment before you travel, our podiatry team is here to help.
Book an appointment with us to ensure your feet are holiday-ready and to give yourself peace of mind before you set off.