How to Travel with Insulin That Needs to Be Refrigerated on a Plane

Insulin travel case options for air travel

• BreezyPack: An ideal insulin travel case for air travel, using phase change material to keep insulin cool for 6-9 hours at 38°C/100°F. The Basic model holds 2 insulin pens, while the Plus model can withstand temperatures up to 46°C/115°F for shorter durations.

• Frio cooling wallet: A lightweight option for flying with refrigerated insulin. Activated by water only, it keeps insulin at a safe temperature without refrigeration. Available in various sizes, from small double (fits 2 pens) to extra large wallet (fits 15-17 vials).

• Medicool PenPlus case: Holds up to 4 insulin vials or 2 pens and keeps them cool for up to 12 hours using a refreezable gel pack, making it suitable for traveling with insulin that needs to be refrigerated on a plane.

• MediFridge portable fridge: Uses Peltier Effect technology to create cold without gas or moving parts. Suitable for heat-sensitive medications like insulin when flying with refrigerated insulin.

Packing and travel tips for insulin that needs to be refrigerated on a plane

• Carry-on luggage: Always pack insulin and related supplies in your carry-on bag when traveling with insulin that needs to be refrigerated on a plane, not in checked luggage. This ensures you have access to your medication and prevents exposure to extreme temperatures in the cargo hold.

• TSA notification: When flying with refrigerated insulin, inform TSA agents about your medical supplies before screening. Insulin and related items are allowed through security checkpoints after inspection.

• Extra supplies: Pack more insulin and supplies than you think you'll need for your trip, in case of unexpected delays or emergencies when traveling with insulin that needs to be refrigerated.

• Storage instructions: Check your specific insulin's storage instructions, as different types may have varying temperature requirements when flying with refrigerated insulin.

Temperature stability for insulin during air travel

• Insulin can remain stable at oscillating temperatures between 25-37°C for up to 4 weeks without losing its effectiveness, according to a study conducted in tropical conditions. This is relevant when considering how to travel with insulin that needs to be refrigerated on a plane.

• However, it's still best to keep insulin as cool as possible to maintain its potency for longer periods during air travel.

Travel insurance considerations for flying with refrigerated insulin

• Specialized coverage: Look for travel insurance plans that cover pre-existing conditions like diabetes when traveling with insulin that needs to be refrigerated. Some options include:

  • INF Elite Plus and INF Premier: Cover pre-existing conditions, including insulin treatment, for visitors to the US, Canada, or Mexico.
  • Atlas Travel and Atlas America: Cover acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to certain age limits.

• Equipment coverage: Some policies, like those offered by Insurancewith, provide coverage for diabetic equipment such as glucose monitoring kits and lost or damaged prescription medication, which is important when flying with refrigerated insulin.

FAQ

Can I bring insulin on a plane?

Yes, you can bring insulin on a plane. Always pack insulin and related supplies in your carry-on luggage when flying with refrigerated insulin. Inform TSA agents about your medical supplies before screening.

How do I keep insulin cold when traveling by plane?

Use a specialized insulin travel case for air travel, such as the BreezyPack or Frio cooling wallet. These cases keep insulin cool without refrigeration for several hours, making them ideal for flying with refrigerated insulin.

What's the best insulin travel case for air travel?

The BreezyPack is an excellent insulin travel case for air travel. It uses phase change material to keep insulin cool for 6-9 hours at high temperatures. The Frio cooling wallet is another good option, activated by water and available in various sizes.

How long can insulin be out of the fridge when traveling?

According to a study, insulin can remain stable at oscillating temperatures between 25-37°C for up to 4 weeks without losing effectiveness. However, when traveling with insulin that needs to be refrigerated on a plane, it's best to keep it as cool as possible using a specialized travel case.

Do I need special travel insurance for flying with refrigerated insulin?

While not mandatory, it's advisable to look for travel insurance plans that cover pre-existing conditions like diabetes when flying with refrigerated insulin. Some options include INF Elite Plus, INF Premier, Atlas Travel, and Atlas America. These plans may also cover diabetic equipment and lost or damaged medication.