Tegan McEntire

Packing with Type 1 Diabetes

Tegan McEntire
Packing with Type 1 Diabetes

Hey Hi Hello!

Long time, no chat! 

Things got a little crazy during my LAST SEMESTER OF COLLEGE (!!!), but I am back in action here on Not Everyone’s Type. 

This summer has been a whirlwind so far full of celebrations and fun vacations. In fact, as I write this I am on a flight to Paris, France to then hop a connecting flight to GREECE

After traveling to The Bahamas, Walt Disney World, Ponte Vedra Beach, Amelia Island, and now, to Greece and Italy, I have spent quite a lot of time this summer packing and planning to pack. As a person living with Type One Diabetes, packing takes a bit more preparation than throwing some clothes in a bag the night before a trip. On one of my most recent posts on Instagram, I created a little check list JUST for my T1D supplies, but my actual list is usually much larger! 

First things first...I have found what I consider to be the ultimate travel cases for diabetes supplies. 

The Eu Go Diabetes Travel Case fits perfectly over the handles of a rolling carry-on suitcase. I was able to fit all of my medication, needles, back up insulin, Dexcom G6 supplies, a back up meter, and more within this case. I opted to have mine monogrammed, but the case itself comes with an ID tag. An added bonus of the Eu Go bag is that it does not count as your personal item for travel because it is strictly for medical supplies! 

Here is the link: https://eugodiabetestravelcase.com/products/travel-case-classic

Next up on my list of perfect travel cases is the Myabetic Brandy Diabetes Backpack! I originally purchased this backpack last summer for travel and have been obsessed with it ever since. I carry it any time I visit Walt Disney World and especially on trips abroad! It is the perfect size and has plenty of pockets for all your diabetes supplies. The front pocket is thoughtfully designed to hold used test strips, insulin, a meter, and more. 

You can find the Brandy Backpack here: https://www.myabetic.com/collections/all/products/brandy-diabetes-supply-backpack?variant=2543243231258

Lastly, when traveling I always make sure that I carry one of my smaller Myabetic cases to throw in my purse or tote bag. I have both the Kamen Diabetes Case and the Clemens Diabetes Compact Wallet. Both are great, but I am partial to the wallet because of its sleek design. I am able to fit all of the things I need in it without feeling like I am carrying my whole stock of supplies! 

I have linked these cases here: https://www.myabetic.com/collections/all/products/kamen-diabetes-case?variant=15677013098545 & https://www.myabetic.com/collections/all/products/clemens-diabetes-compact-wallet?variant=2543317123098

Beyond cases or bags, below you will find my personal packing list anytime I am gearing up for a new adventure. 

  • Insulin

  • Dexcom Supplies

  • Prescriptions in case of gluten exposure

  • Advil

  • Benedryl

  • Test Strips

  • Lancets

  • “Pricker”

  • Insulin syringes

  • Alcohol swabs

  • Low snacks

  • Adhesive tape for Dexcom

  • Confidence

Some may laugh or consider it corny that I add “confidence” to my packing list, but it’s no joke!

Traveling with any illness or chronic condition can be scary and bring out a lot of anxiety. It is important to plan ahead and be confident in yourself! If you are capable (which you are!) of managing your condition at home, with a little extra planning, you will be capable of managing it away from home. Make a list and don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend or loved one to get everything together. 

Safe travels!!

Xoxo,

Teg