5 Essential Tips for Traveling with Type 1 Diabetes (South Africa Edition)

Traveling with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) brings unique challenges, but it should never stop you from exploring. Whether you’re heading for a weekend in the bush or a long-haul flight from Cape Town to London, preparation is the key to a stress-free trip.

Here are five essential tips to help you manage your blood sugar while enjoying your next big adventure.

Tip 1: Plan Ahead & Get Your Medical Letter

Before you pack, visit your GP or endocrinologist. Request a medical travel letter that clearly states you have Type 1 diabetes and need to carry insulin, needles, and a glucose monitor.

Pro Tip: If you are traveling internationally, ask for the letter to be typed on an official letterhead. This is often required by airlines like SAA, FlySafair, or Emirates when passing through security with liquids over 100ml.

Tip 2: Pack 2x the Supplies You Need

The golden rule of Type 1 diabetes travel is to pack double what you think you’ll need. Flight delays, lost luggage, or unexpected excursions can leave you stranded.

Carry-on is King: Never put your insulin in checked baggage. The cargo hold of an airplane can reach freezing temperatures, which will denature your insulin and make it ineffective. Always keep your supplies in your hand luggage.

Tip 3: Keep Your Insulin Safe from the South African Heat

Insulin is sensitive to temperature spikes. In a hot car or a sunny beach bag, insulin can spoil in minutes. Invest in a high-quality insulin cooler, like the Single Hardshell Cooler by Leng Ke.

Why Hardshell? Unlike soft pouches, a hardshell cooler provides a rigid thermal barrier and "vacuum-like" insulation. It’s a TSA-approved travel cooler, meaning you can take it through airport security without any issues, ensuring your medication stays between 2°C and 8°C even during long layovers.

Tip 4: Educate Your Travel Companions

Your support system is vital when you’re away from home. Ensure your travel partners know the signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and where you keep your emergency glucose or glucagon kit.

Local Advice: If you are hiking or in a remote area, make sure at least one other person knows how to use your glucose meter and where your medical ID is located.

Tip 5: Stay Hydrated and Manage Your "Travel Carbs"

Travel often disrupts your eating schedule. Whether it's "padkos" on a road trip or airplane food, carb counting becomes tricky.

Snack Smart: Always carry fast-acting glucose (like Super C’s or Energade jellies) and a long-acting snack (like nuts or a protein bar).
Hydration: Dehydration is common on flights and in the South African summer, which can lead to higher blood sugar levels. Keep a water bottle with you at all times.