I’ve made just about every travel mistake you can imagine with type 1 diabetes (T1D). From leaving behind supplies to underestimating how heat affects insulin, I’ve had some hard lessons. One moment I’ll never forget: years ago, while traveling in Florida during the peak of summer, my insulin overheated and spoiled. I didn’t realize it until my blood sugars started climbing and nothing was working. That trip could have ended badly, but a single juice box in my bag quite literally saved the day. I shared this story as a blog post here.
It taught me an important truth—traveling with T1D requires both intention and preparation.
The Challenge of T1D and Travel
When you live with diabetes, it’s not just about remembering your passport or booking your flights. Every trip comes with extra logistics:
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Will there be refrigeration for insulin?
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Do you have enough test strips, sensors, or pump supplies for delays?
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What happens if you misplace a vial or pod?
Forgetting one small item can throw off an entire trip. Add in time zone changes, unpredictable food options, and long stretches of sitting in planes or cars, and travel can become a blood sugar rollercoaster without the right plan.
How I Changed My Approach
After that Florida experience, I promised myself: never again.
I created a simple but comprehensive T1D Travel Packing List—a checklist that helps me think through every possible scenario before I leave home. It covers not only the basics (like insulin, pump supplies, CGM sensors, and glucose tabs) but also the “just-in-case” items I once forgot—like backup syringes, extra batteries, and yes, even juice boxes.
Now, before every trip, I print it or pull it up on my phone and check things off one by one. The peace of mind is worth it.
A Few Key Travel Tips I Swear By
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Divide and conquer. Put your supplies all in carry-on so you’re never left without essentials if one bag goes missing.
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Temperature matters. Insulin can spoil quickly in heat. I always travel with an insulin cooler (Frio packs are my favorite) to keep things safe.
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Bring double what you think you’ll need. Delays happen. Flights get canceled. Having an extra sensor or infusion set can save you from stress.
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Snacks are non-negotiable. Airports and gas stations aren’t reliable for gluten-free or low-sugar options. Pack snacks you know work for your blood sugar and digestion.
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Prep for security. Keep supplies in original boxes, carry a doctor’s note if you can, and know your rights with TSA.
My Gift to You
Because I know how overwhelming it can feel, I’m sharing my Type 1 Diabetes Travel Packing List with you. It’s the exact one I use for every trip, whether it’s a weekend getaway or an international flight.
And if you don’t already own an insulin cooler, do yourself a favor and order one now. It’s one of the best investments for stress-free travel with T1D.
