Taking Insulin in Frio Coolbags to USA

[_the_whiz_]

I'm off to Las Vegas next week and am diabetic. I have a Frio coolbag to keep my insulin cool while on the plane (I've ordered a fridge at my hotel). Do you know whether the coolbag (as the gel crystals absorb water) constitutes part of the liquid "allowance", or am I being ridiculous? My insulin comes in small cartridges and fits OK in the plastic bag, but I hadn't thought about whether I needed to include the Frio bag in the plastic bag. Until now.

I'll stop worrying when I get there ;-)

Any help would be most appreciated.

Thanks!

[AllYourBase]

Most insulins are actually quite happy at room temp. Their expiry date shrinks rapidly (I think they last only 4 weeks at room temp) so even if your bags were not allowed, then you'd be fine, as long as you order more fresh insulin when you get back. I would think that you would be fine, and your airline will probably allow you to store your insulin in the in flight fridge too.

[VillageVicar]

I don't envy you friend. I would strongly suggest that you ask your GP to write a letter on the surgery's letterhead, stating that you are to carry the gell crystals with you. The letter should state the size and volume of the crystals.

Also, just in case no one has told you, it's also important to have your diabeties card, a copy of your insulin prescription, as well as a possible statement from the Gp as to the syringes you are to carry. Depending on the airline you travel on, the captain may require you to surrender your coolbag, syringes and insulin to her/him to secure on the flight deck during your flight.

If you're flying 'British.' not to worry then...thankfully, logic still prevails!

Bon Voyage!

Fr Bill

[Trotbot]

I have never had a problem with my frio bag, it is not part of your liquids allowance. A GP's letter is always a good idea, but not essential.

I always refuse (politely) to let anyone else store my insulin in flight, as I don't want to lose control of it. Do you use a pen or a syringe? Heathow Security get a bit funny about lots of syringes, so I usually have a couple with me and the rest in check in baggage (I always have a few in case I drop my pen (again!)

[David Moyes]

Just come back from Spain.

No problem with Frio bag though I did have aletter from Diabetes nurse which was never asked for.

[_the_whiz_]

Hi, thanks everyone for your comments.

I have a letter from my GP and also a card from Diabetes UK stating that I'm an insulin user, so I think I've got everything covered. I've been to Europe with insulin and had no problems, but not been on a long haul flight before.

Cheers.