For type 1 diabetics and type 2 diabetics who need insulin injections, traveling presents a new set of challenges. Some are particularly concerned about insulin use. How to properly plan your trip to get what you need?

Of course, the first and foremost thing to do is carry enough insulin for your trip. You always want to have something extra just in case:

• will end up staying longer than expected,
• face a delay, or
• if you accidentally damage part of your stock.

Insulin vials don’t take up too much space and it’s definitely worth having refills on hand.

Registering your insulin and diabetic equipment: If you are traveling by plane, it is best to keep your insulin cooler and related equipment in the original containers with the original labels. This will help avoid unnecessary delays when passing security checks. If you don’t have them in the proper insulin cooler, be sure to buy them at the pharmacy. Don’t risk using it in a plain package, otherwise it could be confiscated by security personnel.

But security checks are not the only problem to be dealt with. Check with your transport company in advance the baggage allowance. Beyond the legal rules, you need to know how your insulin cooler will be stored and what temperatures they will be exposed to. Luggage storage on a bus or train, or even in the luggage locker of an airplane, can experience extreme changes in temperature while traveling.

• most antidiabetic drugs,
• glucometers and
• test strips

should be stored at room temperature. Many injections must be kept fresh.

Insulin cooler – Always carry two different insulin coolers with you and put your insulin and supplies in both. This way, if one is lost, you will have enough of everything you need until you can find another.

When packing, you need to be very careful with your supplies. It all depends on the type of insulin cooler you carry it in. There are many different types of coolers on the market, so be sure to do your homework before buying. It should be compact enough not to be bulky while still providing reliable protection. Insulin coolers are made specifically for diabetic supplies and can be purchased at the pharmacy and / or purchased online.

Also, make sure your cabinet is well insulated from extreme weather conditions. Your consumables may not be too hot or too cold, so check the insulation specifications before purchasing. Also, if you are traveling by plane, make sure you have everything you need in your carry-on luggage. The temperature in the cargo hold can be very low and your items can be permanently damaged if left there for the entire flight.

Finally, make sure you have your own snacks to avoid overeating or to help fill up in case of flight or even meal delays. If you have low blood sugar, you may need to eat something. By having the right items on hand, you can avoid having to rely on unhealthy vending machines, or worse without them. Just make sure the snacks you choose will withstand the trip and last in your luggage.