Insulin Pens-Storage

[Zoelula]

Hi all
I have just started using Insulin and chose the Pen for its ease of use and of storage. My understanding is that I should store my extra pens in the fridge but the one I'm using is fine at room temperature. Fortunately the ambient temps where I live just don't get too hot or too cold. However, I am traveling this month to Costa Rica where it will be much warmer. The insert says to store it below 80 degrees. I am renting a room with a fridge but will be traveling to my destination and so it will be exposed to hotter temps. Any experiences with the Insulin going bad (or not) after limited time in temps in the high 80s?
Thanks,
Zoe

[caregiver222]

That is a very good question. There are various manufacturers, and that question is best addressed to the one producing your pen. An alternative is to bring along a plastic insulated lunch box and purchase some of those "ice" units that are plastic filled with a solution that is frozen. They will keep the temperature down for a long time. Another possibility is to bring a thermos bottle, put ice-cubes in the bottle, then a bit of cloth (you don't want the units to freeze solid), and then put the pens in.

[Zoelula]

Thanks caregiver, that is a good suggestion. I don't think it will get through airport security, though! (Pretty ironic, I've heard there is no problem with insulin needles, but ice is probably a no-no just like water!)

I was actually hoping to hear people's actual experiences, because perhaps they make those temperature suggestions on the conservative side.

[madgeOwens]

Make sure you have documentation for the med when you travel. A note from your physician woould be wise.  

[Zoelula]

Thanks, Madge. I'll take along my prescription. (I live in Guatemala where they give you back your prescription at the drug store).

[Rachel_R]

Diabetic supplies are allowed to be carried onto an airplane, including syringes. If asked to explain the "pen" at airport security present your prescription to the asking agent. I always carry a note from my doctor - with his letterhead - when traveling in foreign countries because the former may not be acceptable practice at that airport screening. Best check with the airlines to see what is required at the airports you're flying from/to.
When flying to/from countries that are near the equator, I pack a soft insulated bag with my check-in luggage. It stays cold since baggage flies in the belly of the plane which is not temperature controlled. The short time the plane stays on the ground doesn't affect the insulin either. Once landed, I put my "pens" in the insulated bag until I reach my destination.  This works for me, others may have other suggestions.
By the way, cold packs are considered liquid and are prohibited to carry-on or put in check-in baggage. Same goes for ice in thermos.

[Zoelula]

Thank you, Rachel, for the helpful suggestions! Life with diabetes definitely takes planning!