A diabetes diagnosis has long ceased to mean that you have to stay at home. With the right preparation and precautions, you can even explore the furthest corners of the world. Wherever you go, transporting your insulin properly and keeping it at the right temperature is crucial. In this blog – based on the insights from “Traveling with Diabetes” by Uwe Diegel – you will find out what to look out for when you go on holiday with insulin.
1. Preparation: the basis of a worry-free trip
Talk to your healthcare provider and insurer
- Consult your doctor: Discuss your travel plans, especially with time differences and different climates. Ask what to do in case of illness or emergencies and check whether glucagon (for severe hypoglycaemia) is an option for you.
- Talk to your pharmacy: Ask for a list of all your medication (including generic names and dosages). This is useful for customs checks and in case you need new insulin abroad.
- Check your insurance: Some insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions such as diabetes. Make sure you are properly insured and take copies of your insurance documents with you.
Documents in order
- Travel certificate: Ask your doctor to write a statement (in English) that you have diabetes, need insulin and must transport it cool (2-8°C). This can help customs checks go smoothly.
- Diabetes ID: Carry a diabetes card in your wallet. That way, first responders will know what is going on if you are taken ill.
- Vaccinations: Get vaccinated at least four weeks before departure, so that any side effects are over before your trip.
2. Keeping insulin at the right temperature
Why temperature is so important
- Too warm: Above 25°C, insulin loses its effect after some time and becomes less effective.
- Too cold or frozen: Insulin that freezes develops crystals that make injecting unpleasant and unsafe.
- Ideal between 2 and 8°C: At this temperature, insulin stays stable for up to several months.
Cooling solutions for on the go
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Cooling bags (EasyBag, iCool, LifeinaBag)
- EasyBag: Activate the gel crystals by briefly immersing the bag in water, after which you can keep insulin at around 16-25°C for up to several days.
- iCool and LifeinaBag: Use reusable gel packs that keep your insulin between 2 and 8°C for 24-36 hours (depending on the model).
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Mini fridges (LifeinaBox)
- LifeinaBox: The world’s smallest smart fridge with a built-in battery (up to 6 hours without power). An app lets you keep a constant eye on the temperature. Perfect for longer journeys or irregular conditions.
Or take a look at our Diabetes Travel Set
Handy tips
- In a hotel room, use a (mini) fridge where the power stays on: in many hotels, the power goes off when you remove the key card. So leave an old card in the slot so that the fridge keeps cooling.
- Want to (re)freeze gel packs? Ask the hotel bar or kitchen whether they will put them in their freezer; it is often more powerful than a minibar.
3. Transporting insulin during your trip
On the plane
- Take insulin in your hand luggage: That way, you avoid running out if your suitcases go missing. In addition, it can sometimes get too cold in the cargo hold.
- Customs & security: Let them know in advance that you have diabetes and are carrying medical supplies. Make sure you have clear labels and a doctor's statement. Also mention if you use an insulin pump (ask for a manual check in a private room if necessary).
- Time zones: If you are travelling across more than two time zones, adjust your insulin schedule (in consultation with your doctor). Sometimes you need to administer less or more insulin if the day becomes shorter or longer.
- Extra time: Go to the airport a little earlier so that you don't get stressed if your medical bag is given an extra security check.
By car, bus or train
- Test regularly: Check your blood sugar before departure and every few hours on the way.
- Watch out for hypos: Keep sugary snacks (glucose tablets, fruit juice) within reach. Do not keep driving if you feel a hypo coming on.
- Keep moving: Stop regularly to stretch your legs and move around a little. This promotes circulation and keeps you alert.
On a boat
- Buffets: Cruises are known for their abundant meals. Still, try to keep to a regular routine and not snack too much.
- Inform the crew: Let them know you have diabetes so that they can help you if problems arise.
Camping or hiking
- Don't go alone: Especially in remote areas, it is important that someone knows where you are if something goes wrong.
- Avoid large variations in blood sugar: Intense exercise can make your blood sugar drop quickly. Discuss with your doctor beforehand whether you need to adjust your insulin dose.
- Wear suitable shoes: Foot care is essential. Take first-aid supplies with you so you can treat small wounds straight away.
4. Points to watch at your destination
Check your blood sugar regularly
Different daily rhythms, different food and more or less exercise can send your levels in all directions. So take enough test strips and spare batteries for your glucose meter.
Dealing with illness or emergencies
- Keep using insulin, even if you eat little.
- Drink enough fluids (preferably sugar-free).
- Seek medical help immediately in case of repeated vomiting or diarrhoea.
Alcohol and diabetes
- Alcohol increases the risk of hypos, especially during holidays full of parties and socialising.
- Eat carbohydrates with your drink, check your blood sugar regularly and make sure someone around you knows what to do in the event of a hypo.
- Please note: Glucagon does not work well if you have alcohol in your blood.
5. Enjoy your trip!
Good preparation, sufficient knowledge and the right cooling solutions make it possible to go on holiday with diabetes without worry. Whether you choose a relaxing sunny destination, an adventurous mountain trek or a round-the-world trip, don't let your insulin hold you back – but do make sure you store it safely and cool.
Source: “Traveling with Diabetes” by Uwe Diegel.
Want to know more about safe medication cooling?
At Medicooler.nl, you will find various solutions for always keeping your insulin at the right temperature. That way, you can explore the world with peace of mind, without worrying about your medication.
Have a good trip!