What Should I Keep in My Diabetes Kit?

A diabetes kit should include:

For testing and monitoring: Test strips, glucometer, lancets and lancing device, and ketone test strips.
For insulin delivery: Syringes and/or an insulin pen and extra insulin.
For a hypoglycemia emergency: Glucose tablets, gels, or shots.

Managing diabetes feels like a full-time job without the benefits. Even when you’re not feeling well, you have to be proactive with your testing and personal care, and all of that work is on top of your other daily duties. Diabetes burnout is very real.

Owning a diabetes kit supports both your physical and mental health by reducing your workload and keeping your essential diabetic supplies organized in one place.

What Should I Keep in My Diabetes Kit?

Here are the essentials that belong in every diabetes kit:

Testing & Monitoring Supplies

Tracking blood glucose levels is the foundation of an at-home diabetes management plan. You may be able to buy diabetes testing kits that include the necessary items, or you can build your own testing kit with your preferred products.

What comes in a diabetes testing kit?

Test Strips: Test strips are used to check your blood sugar levels throughout the day. Because they’re used so frequently, you may want to use the least expensive glucose test strips to reduce the financial burden. Just make sure to go with a trusted brand.
Blood Glucose Meter: Glucometers read the blood sample on your test strips to determine the concentration of glucose, allowing you to plan your insulin and/or food intake accordingly. Even if you use CGM supplies, a glucometer is helpful to have as a backup for peace of mind.
Lancets and Lancing Devices: Diabetes lancets and lancing devices are used to obtain blood samples for your test strips and glucometer.
Ketone Test Strips: Glucose urinalysis test strips may be required to determine if you have or are developing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions about what comes in a diabetes testing kit from ADW Diabetes.

Insulin Delivery

Next, you need a way to take your insulin. Syringes and insulin pens are the most common delivery systems, although you may want to consider choosing an insulin pump for sale for the most convenient option. However, even with a pump, you should still have a backup plan.

Syringes: Insulin syringes are the most cost-effective option, and some people prefer them because there are so many options. Syringes may also be necessary for people who have specific dosing requirements.
Insulin Pen: A diabetic pen is a great option for those seeking a discreet and portable insulin delivery system.
Extra Insulin: Make sure you’re stocked with enough insulin.

Emergency Hypoglycemia Supplies

If you notice signs of hypoglycemia, you need to be able to take quick action.

Glucose Products: Glucose products provide a fast-acting dose of glucose to balance your levels. Popular options include tablets, gels, and shots.

Learn more: Glucose Tablets vs. Gels vs. Shots.

Other Items to Consider

What should I keep in my diabetes kit? A healthcare professional can help you fill any gaps that might be missing from this list. Here are some other quick ideas: