Attending a big game, a concert, or a crowded event should feel exciting! Not stressful because you’re worried about your medical supplies.
A low blood sugar, an insulin dose that needs to happen on schedule, some extra glucose tabs in case of emergency…these aren’t optional.
If you live with diabetes, it’s entirely reasonable to ask: Can I bring my diabetes supplies? Will I be turned away?
The good news: yes, you can. You do have rights.
This article will walk you through the rights, how to use them, and how to make the experience smoother.
What federal law says
The rights of people with diabetes to bring supplies into public places are grounded in U.S. federal law.
Specifically, the law says that places considered public accommodations (such as stadiums, theatres, and convention centers) cannot discriminate against people with diabetes by refusing access or forbidding the use of their medically necessary supplies.
In practice, this means:
- If you need to carry syringes, insulin pens, meters, glucose tabs, a pump, or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and its supplies, you should be allowed to do so.
- Food and snacks for diabetes (e.g., to treat low blood sugar) are considered medically necessary in many settings.
- If you need breaks (for example, to check blood sugar, eat a snack, take medication, or use the restroom), they should be accommodated.
- If a venue denies you access for bringing your supplies (and you can show you need them for diabetes management), you may have grounds to file a complaint under the ADA or seek legal help.
So legally, yes, you are covered.
Why some venues still make it hard
Even though the law supports you, there are practical reasons why security or staff sometimes raise issues:
- They may not be trained on diabetes needs and interpret syringes/lancets as “sharp objects” to be disallowed.
- Bag policies often aim to speed entry and reduce risk; a large bag + medical supplies may look like a large-bag problem even when it’s justified.
- Staff may apply a “food ban” without thinking of medical exceptions.
- Some venues use very generic language, and staff may not know to treat medical supplies differently.
These hurdles don’t mean you lose your rights — just that planning and documentation help you avoid or manage friction.
How to prepare yourself
To be clear, none of the below is required by law. It’s just ways to make the process easier for you and the venue.
1. Pack your supplies thoughtfully
Packing your diabetes supplies so they are easy to reach and identify makes things much easier. An example could be a transparent pouch or bag labelled “Medical Diabetes Supplies”.
You can also consider having a doctor’s note or diabetes ID, although this should not be required.
2. Check the venue’s policy ahead of time
Some large venues have a designated medical gate or ADA entrance, or they specify online how they would like you to enter with medical equipment.
3. On the day of the event
When you reach the gate, say clearly: “I have medically necessary diabetes supplies.” Be cooperative with screening; open the bag and let staff inspect; ask for a tag if required.
Avoid bringing excess unused supplies. Only carry what you realistically need for the event.
What to do if you run into problems
If you believe a venue has discriminated against you (denying entry, improperly removing your supplies, or refusing snack access when needed), you have paths:
- If you are refused entry or told you cannot bring your supplies, ask to speak to the supervisor or Guest Services. Sometimes, resolution on-site is possible.
- Document what happened: your ticket, your supplies, what you were carrying, what gate staff said, etc.
- Contact the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) or your local disability rights office.
- File a complaint under Title III of the ADA if the facility is a public accommodation.
- If you regularly have trouble at a particular venue, consider writing a letter ahead of time to their Guest Services explaining your need and requesting confirmation of access.
Final thoughts
Going out to a game, a concert, or a show should include you just as you are, with your diabetes management in hand. You don’t need to hide your supplies or feel anxious at the gate.
The laws are clear: you have the right to bring medical supplies and make the event accessible and safe for you. With a little preparation, clarity, and calm confidence, you’ll be able to join the crowd, enjoy the event, and stay in control of your health at the same time.
Stay safe, keep your kit handy, and enjoy the event. You’ve got every right to be there, just like anyone else.
