Type 1 diabetes and travel in 10 questions and answers

How old were you when you were first diagnosed with type 1?

I was 16 years old.

Where would you say is the best place you have visited in the UK?

Definitely Scotland, it’s got amazing beauty everywhere. Glen Coe & Isle of Skye are my favourites.

What is your management routine for type 1, whilst you are out and about?

Since I’m currently living ‘van life’, diabetes management is easier. I keep all my supplies in the van and my insulin in my onboard fridge. For day trips, I carry any insulin I need in my Frio bags, which is an insulin cooling case.

What are the challenges you face when travelling with type 1?

Managing new climates, and making sure my insulin is kept cold. I make sure I have access to a fridge (when I can) or use Frio bags when needed.

What tips would you give to people who are diagnosed with type1?

Surround yourself with information and positivity from others who have type 1 and are still doing all the things they wanted. I feared diabetes would hold me back, but I soon realised it didn’t have to, and the online diabetes community is full of inspirational people!

What would you say to someone with type 1, who’s worried how the condition will affect their ability to travel?

My advice is to prepare in advance for all the sorts of situations you are worried about and come up with a solution. Planning is key to traveling with diabetes, and you’ll soon see there isn’t anything you can’t prepare for.

How do you manage your blood glucose levels when travelling?

I test more frequently and look for patterns in my blood sugars. My HbA1c has only got better since I started travelling 5 years ago.

How do you manage your health, mental health and wellbeing?

I always try to make sure I’m eating healthy when I’m traveling and I’m also very self-aware of my mental health. I like to keep a diary to write my thoughts and feelings and I encourage myself to allow myself to rest both physically and mentally.

Do you use type 1 technology? If so, how has it helped with diabetes management?

I love the Freestyle Libre 2 and its alarms. It’s improved my blood sugars and allowed me to be more spontaneous.

What’s next for your travel agenda?

I’m driving around the world with my partner in our self-converted campervan over the next 3 years. We’ll be vlogging our adventures on our Youtube account Cazzy & Bradley and I am super excited!

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Read more about Cazzy’s travel experiences on her blogs www.thatdiabeticgirl.com and www.dreambigtravelfarblog.com.