Can I use my Dexcom CGM while travelling?
Dexcom CGM systems are designed not to impact your travel. Just follow these instructions.
Medical Device Notice
- Download the "Notice of Medical Device" letter.
- Have your healthcare professional complete the form for presentation to airport security.
- Read through our flyer available on travelling with Dexcom.
- Contact your airline to inquire about their specific policies regarding the use of medical devices during the flight.
Inform Security Personnel
- Let the security officer know you are wearing a Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) device and the sensor can’t be removed because it’s inserted under the skin (communication is key!).
- You can wear your sensor when going through walk-through metal detectors or when hand-wanded. If you’re uncomfortable with the metal detectors, request a full-body pat down and visual inspection of your CGM device.
IMPORTANT: Don’t put your Dexcom CGM system components through Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) body scanners or X-Ray baggage machines. The effects haven’t been evaluated and could affect device reliability and accuracy. Before your screening process begins, ask the security officer to perform a visual inspection of your CGM device. Place all Dexcom components in a separate bag before handing over to the security officer. To avoid removing your sensor, request an alternative screening method such as metal detector, hand-wand, or pat down. If scanned by AIT or X-ray machine, remove your CGM and use a blood glucose meter instead for treatment decisions.
Note: Most security check points require you to temporarily give up your smartphone^ and receiver†. When you are without a display device in security checkpoint area, use your blood glucose meter for treatment decisions.
On the plane
For sensor glucose information during the flight:
For sensor glucose information during the flight:
Smart Device: Switch to airplane mode, then turn on Bluetooth.
Receiver: Keep it on.
Receiver: Keep it on.
Changing Time Zones
Let the date and time on your smartphone automatically update when you travel across time zones or switch between standard and daylight-saving times. Do not manually change your smartphone time, because it can make the time on the trend screen wrong and the app may stop displaying data. You can change the time on your receiver manually.
Let the date and time on your smartphone automatically update when you travel across time zones or switch between standard and daylight-saving times. Do not manually change your smartphone time, because it can make the time on the trend screen wrong and the app may stop displaying data. You can change the time on your receiver manually.
Additional Resources
- Refer to your smart device's user guide for travel tips.
- Familiarise yourself with the Therapeutical Goods Administration (TGA) "Travelling with Medical Equipment" videos, especially if traveling to or from Australia.
- Read through the travel fact sheet provided by the NDSS.
- Remember to always prioritise safety and follow the guidelines provided in the user guide and relevant medical authorities.
*Compatible smart devices sold separately. To view a list of compatible smart devices, visit dexcom.com/en-au/compatibility.
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