What to Do If You Run Out of CGM Supplies Away from Home

Have you ever left your continuous glucose monitor (CGM) supplies at home while staying with a friend or family member? Or maybe you forgot to pack enough refills before heading on vacation? Worse yet, has your CGM sensor expired while you’re at work or school, and you didn’t bring backups?

Running out of CGM supplies when you’re away from home is stressful and can make managing diabetes overwhelming. But don’t worry—there are ways to handle this situation, even if you’re far from home.

Here’s what you can do if you run out of supplies and can’t get back home quickly:

Call your doctor for help

If you’re traveling or away from home, reaching out to your doctor is a great first step.

Ask if they can order CGM sensors for pickup at a local pharmacy near you.

Many CGMs, like Freestyle Libre and Dexcom, work with smartphone apps, so you might not even need a separate receiver.

Keep in mind that availability depends on the pharmacy’s stock. Also, if you choose to pay out of pocket to skip insurance delays, you can always file for reimbursement later.

No doctor? Talk to a pharmacist

If you can’t reach your doctor, head to a nearby pharmacy and speak with a pharmacist. They may be able to transfer your existing prescription from another pharmacy.

Compared to other CGMs, the Freestyle Libre  is generally more affordable. For example, a single sensor may cost $35–$75 out of pocket, depending on the pharmacy and location.

Use a blood glucose meter

If you can’t get a CGM right away, a blood glucose meter is a good backup plan.

You can pick one up at most pharmacies, and while fingerpricks aren’t ideal, they’re better than nothing. Remember, this is just a temporary solution until you can get back to your CGM.

What if you’re close to home?

If you’re not too far from home—like if you’re at work or school—don’t hesitate to ask for help. Talk to your boss or professor privately and explain the situation.

If possible, ask to leave early or work remotely for the day. However, never drive if you’re unsure about your blood glucose levels.

Hypoglycemia unawareness is dangerous and can be life-threatening.

Call a friend or family member

When you can’t leave but need your supplies, consider asking a friend, neighbor, or family member for help. They can bring your supplies to you, saving you from unnecessary stress. Don’t feel bad for reaching out—your health is a priority.

The bottom line

Being without your CGM supplies isn’t ideal, but it’s manageable. Whether it’s calling your doctor, leaning on a pharmacist, or using a temporary solution like a BGM, you’ve got options to stay on track. And don’t forget, your diabetes care team and support network are there to help. Managing diabetes is tough, but you’re tougher!

This educational content is made possible with support from Abbott, makers of the Freestyle Libre 3 system, an active partner of Beyond Type 1 at the time of publication. Editorial control rests solely with Beyond Type 1.