The purpose of this blog post is to dive deep into everything I need to know as I prepare for my first trip abroad as a Type 1 diabetic. In April, I’ll be traveling from the UK to Greece, and while I’m excited to explore a new country, I want to ensure I’m fully prepared to manage my condition both in the air and on the ground. Traveling with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) comes with unique challenges—air pressure changes, airport security protocols, heat effects on blood sugar, and the logistics of packing medication and supplies. This post will cover how travel and heat can impact T1D, what to expect at the airport (especially with insulin pumps and sensors), and a detailed checklist of what to pack, including UK rules for taking medicines on planes. Let’s get started!
How Traveling Abroad and Flying Affects Type 1 Diabetes
Traveling abroad with T1D requires extra planning because your routine gets disrupted. Flights, time zone changes, and new environments can all influence blood sugar levels. Here’s how:
In the Air: Cabin Pressure and Blood Sugar Monitoring
Flying introduces variables like cabin pressure changes and altered schedules. For those using insulin pumps, air pressure shifts during take-off and landing can cause small air bubbles to form in the insulin reservoir or tubing, potentially affecting insulin delivery. This doesn’t happen to everyone, but it’s worth monitoring your glucose levels closely during these times. Some people notice slight inaccuracies in continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) at higher altitudes due to lower oxygen levels, though this is usually minimal (about 1-2% lower per 300 meters of elevation).
The cabin environment—dry air, limited movement, and unpredictable meal times—can also play a role. Dehydration can raise blood sugar, while sitting for hours might lower insulin needs if you’re less active than usual. If you’re crossing time zones (like the two-hour difference between the UK and Greece), you’ll need to adjust your insulin timing gradually. For short differences like this, some stick to their usual schedule, but it’s smart to consult your healthcare team for a personalized plan.
Heat in Greece: Effects on Blood Sugar and Insulin
Greece in April can be pleasantly warm, with temperatures often ranging from 15-22°C (59-72°F), though it can spike higher in the south or during heatwaves. Heat affects T1D in several ways:
- Blood Sugar Fluctuations: High temperatures can increase insulin absorption, potentially leading to unexpected lows. Dehydration from sweating can also raise blood sugar by concentrating glucose in your bloodstream.
- Insulin Stability: Insulin degrades in extreme heat (above 30°C/86°F for most brands). If you’re out exploring Greek ruins or beaches, you’ll need to keep it cool to avoid potency loss.
- Sensor and Pump Performance: CGMs and pumps can malfunction in heat or humidity. Adhesive might loosen, and battery life could shorten if devices overheat.
Frequent monitoring and hydration are key. I’ll need to balance enjoying the Mediterranean climate with keeping my T1D in check.
Navigating UK Airports with Type 1 Diabetes Tech
Going through airport security with T1D tech like insulin pumps and CGMs can feel daunting, especially with UK regulations and varying scanner types. Here’s what I’ve learned about the process:
Security Scanners and Diabetes Devices
UK airports are transitioning to advanced CT scanners for luggage and Explosive Detection Systems for Cabin Baggage (EDSCB), with a full rollout expected by June 2025. These differ from older X-ray machines and can affect how you handle your gear:
- Insulin Pumps: Most manufacturers (e.g., Medtronic, Tandem) advise against exposing pumps to X-ray or full-body scanners (like backscatter or millimetre-wave machines). The electromagnetic fields could disrupt functionality. Instead, disconnect your pump at the infusion site or keep it attached and request a pat-down. Tell security, “I have a medical device that can’t go through the scanner,” and show a doctor’s letter if needed.
- CGMs and Flash Glucose Monitors (e.g., Dexcom, Libre): These also shouldn’t go through X-ray or full-body scanners. Walk-through metal detectors are usually safe, but check with your device’s manufacturer. I use a CGM, so I’ll carry it on me and ask for a manual check.
- Hand Luggage Screening: Insulin vials, pens, and spares can go through X-ray scanners without issue, but avoid putting pumps, CGMs, or sensors in bags that get scanned by X-ray or CT machines. Keep them in a separate pouch you carry through.
UK Rules and Regulations for Medicines on Planes
The UK follows strict hand luggage rules, but medical exemptions apply for T1D supplies:
- Liquids: The 100ml limit doesn’t apply to liquid medications like insulin or glucagon. You can carry what you need for the trip, but it must be in its original packaging with your name on the label. Security may ask to see a prescription or doctor’s letter.
- Sharps: Syringes, pen needles, and lancets are allowed in hand luggage if accompanied by insulin or a prescription. Carry a sharps container for used items—some airports offer disposal, but don’t count on it.
- Documentation: A letter from your GP or diabetes team is essential. It should state you have T1D, list your medications/devices, and explain why they must stay with you. The Civil Aviation Authority’s Medical Device Awareness (MDA) card is also handy—print it from their website to show security.
- Notification: Tell the security officer about your condition and devices before screening. If you’re wearing a pump or CGM, point it out. You can’t be forced to remove a device, and you can request a private screening if needed.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Arrive early (at least an hour before boarding) to account for extra checks.
- Split supplies between two bags in case one gets lost—hand luggage is a must for essentials.
- Contact your airline beforehand. Some allow extra medical baggage; British Airways, for example, often permits this with prior notice.
Packing for Greece: Checklist and Luggage Strategy
Here’s my comprehensive checklist, split into hand luggage and hold luggage, based on UK rules and T1D travel advice. I’m packing 2-3 times what I’d normally need for a week-long trip to cover delays or emergencies.
Hand Luggage (Carry-On)
These must stay with me to avoid freezing in the hold or loss:
- Insulin: Enough pens/vials for the trip (e.g., 2-3 weeks’ worth), stored in a Frio cooling wallet to protect from heat. Brands like NovoRapid or Lantus last 28 days at room temp (up to 25-30°C), but check yours.
- Pump Supplies: Infusion sets, reservoirs, batteries, and a backup insulin pen in case my pump fails. I’ll disconnect it for security if needed.
- CGM Supplies: Extra sensors, transmitter (if detachable), charger, and a spare blood glucose meter with strips and lancets.
- Hypo Treatments: Glucose tablets, drinks, and snacks like nuts or granola bars.
- Documentation: Doctor’s letter, prescriptions, NDSS card (if applicable), MDA card, and emergency contacts.
- Sharps Container: A small, approved one for used needles/lancets.
- Snacks: Sandwiches, fruit, or cereal bars for flight delays or in-flight hypos.
- Hydration: Empty water bottle to fill post-security, plus electrolyte tablets for heat.
- Medical ID: Bracelet or card stating I have T1D.
Hold Luggage (Checked Bags)
These are backups or non-essentials:
- Extra Insulin: A spare vial or pen, well-insulated in a cool pack (avoid direct ice contact to prevent freezing).
- Additional Pump/CGM Supplies: More infusion sets, sensors, or strips as a precaution.
- Comfort Items: Extra clothes, sunscreen (heat protection), and comfy shoes for walking.
Why Split Supplies?
Insulin in the hold can freeze (below 2°C/36°F) and lose potency, while pumps and sensors risk damage from X-ray scanners or rough handling. Keeping essentials in hand luggage ensures I’m covered if my checked bag is delayed.
Final Tips for Greece in April
- Monitor More: Heat, activity, and Greek cuisine (think carbs like pita or sweets like baklava) might throw off my levels. I’ll test or check my CGM often.
- Stay Cool: A Frio wallet or insulated pouch will keep insulin safe while I’m out. I’ll avoid leaving supplies in direct sun or a hot car.
- Plan Meals: I’ll wait to dose insulin until food arrives on the plane or at restaurants to avoid lows if service is delayed.
- Emergency Prep: I’ll research pharmacies in Greece (insulin is widely available, but brand names might differ—e.g., NovoRapid might be “NovoMix” in some places). My doctor’s letter will help if I need supplies.