Type 1 Insulin and traveling abroad

[Marieanne2]

How easy is it to take your insulin and equipment through airport security. Which is the best way to keep insulin cool but not freezing whilst away in countries with very hot or cold climates? Thanks

 

[db89]

I've just been abroad for the first time since being diagnosed and had no trouble with airport security. I did tell one of the staff members I had insulin, needles etc. in my hand luggage. They were quite happy for me to leave it in the case I was using.

I took a couple of Glucojuices through without trouble also in one of the clear plastic bags they have at security.

I used a Frio wallet abroad to keep the insulin I was using cool and away from the heat and it was excellent.


Edited to add: I had a letter with me from my DSN but I didn't need it either way.

 

[fletchweb]

How easy is it to take your insulin and equipment through airport security. Which is the best way to keep insulin cool but not freezing whilst away in countries with very hot or cold climates? Thanks

I remembered the last time I traveled to the U.S.A I was quite concerned and they didn't even blink an eye, it was a non issue - interestingly when I tried to get back in to Canada is was a HUGE hassle - unbelievable and I was starting to get angry - which never turns out well - fortunately Canadian Security let me thru with my meds. For a brief moment I wasn;t sure if I would get back in to my own country.

I'm catching a domestic flight on Wednesday - it will be interesting to see how much I will get hassled this time.

As for storage of insulin - I do this when I go on my wilderness expeditions - get a cold pack - bag of liquid you freeze, and then find a two pocket med bag - cold pack goes in one pocket the insulin in the other - will keep your insulin cool without freezing for at least the day.

Safe travels!

 

[parrotlady]

I went on hol to Egypt in Feb and was worried about getting through security but no problem. I had my insulin with a letter from doc and a prescription in a clear plastic zip bag. placed it in the tray that you put your stuff on where they could see and it went through no prob. The lady just glanced and sent it through. The same coming back. I bought a Frio bag. they are great for keeping insulin cool and they stay cool for days, and not expensive. You can find their site in internet.

 

[Deleted Account]

Key things to remember when travelling with diabetes
- bring a doctors letter with you in case you are asked. Best to get one for a non-specific time so you can reuse it
- take ALL medication in hand luggage
- take twice as much of EVERYTHING (insulin, needles, test strips, lancet, hypo treatment) than you think you need. This allows for holidays to be extended or losing something
- if possible, split your supplies over multiple bags (but remember the letter only covers only you to carry needles)
- don't let insulin, test strips or meter get too hot. Keep them out of direct sunlight. Especially, the insulin
- smile and answer honestly when you are asked at the airport whether you have any sharps in your luggage
- test more than usual: your days will be different than usual due to more/less exercise, different food and/or alcohol
- enjoy your holiday