Not Just Along for the Ride: Type 1 and Travel - Jess's Story and Advice
Yoga Retreats and Long Flights: Travelling Southeast Asia with Type 1 Diabetes
Meet Jess, an adventurous Type 1 diabetic who didn’t let her condition stop her from booking a spontaneous trip to the beautiful islands of southern Asia. With a few days in the bustling Singapore, followed by a mindful few days in Bali, she knew it would be both exciting and nerve-racking. From navigating unfamiliar food to hiking at sunrise with her insulin pump and CGM, the trip taught her that with preparation, support, and a dash of humour, diabetes doesn’t have to hold you back. The trip of a lifetime is possible, even in the tropics!
Packing Smart: Things To Consider When Packing
For Jess, the journey began long before take-off. Travelling internationally with Type One isn’t just about checking your passport – it's about checking (and double-checking) your prep.
Six weeks out, Jess was already deep in her planning phase:
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Researching weather-related storage for insulin
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Organising backups for CGMs and pumps
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Scanning airline and airport policies
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Assembling the ultimate “just-in-case" bag
“I started planning six weeks before and I still felt rushed. You can never be too early when it comes to Type 1 prep!” – Jess
Her number one tip? Start early. Everything from batteries to hypo snacks can make or break your peace of mind. Give yourself time – and then some. You deserve to feel confident, not chaotic.
“I brought so many snacks I filled the retreat fridge with paper cups of juice, biscuits and leftover burgers, just in case I had a night-time low!” – Jess
Supportive Spaces: Navigating A Yoga Retreat
In Bali, she attended a yoga retreat with her best friend, who is familiar with her Type 1 diabetes and supportive throughout. The retreat organizer, whom Jess knew beforehand, was also accommodating of her medical needs, which made her feel safe and included.
The big takeaway? Support matters. Empathy matters. And when you’re surrounded by people who get it – or at least want to – you thrive.
“None of the other girls on the retreat had Type 1, but they were all so curious and kind. I felt totally seen and supported.” – Jess
“I love talking about it – when people understand what’s going on, it feels like I’m not hiding such a big part of myself.”
Freedom, Not Fear: You Can Travel with Type One Diabetes
“The anticipation was the worst part. But once I got there, I felt calm — because I’d prepared, and I was finally living it.” – Jess
While on the trip, Jess embraced every opportunity her trip offered, such as activities like snorkelling and a sunrise hike – but not without realistic preparation. She faced some typical diabetes-related challenges—like blood sugar concerns during excursions and walking more than usual—but managed them with preparation and support.
“I didn’t expect to walk so much in Singapore. Putting my Omnipod into activity mode helped me avoid lows while exploring.” – Jess
This preparation, which included checking for medical services, packing extra supplies (like CGMs, insulin pens, hypo treatments), and mentally preparing for time zone changes, helped alleviate much of her anxiety.
Tips for other Type One Travellers
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Do the homework - seeing other people navigated challenges, from prescription issues to emergency plans, can give you peace of mind.
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Communicate early and clearly – if you don’t ask the question, you’ll never know. Reaching out to hosts in advance, speaking to groups leaders and explaining your situation goes a long way, and having a local nearby and aware of any accommodations you may need bridges any final communication gaps.
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Talk to people! Most people are curious and supportive, and will take a genuine interest in your condition – being open about it takes a weight off your shoulders, and helps to remove stigma.
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Prepare for the unexpected – that bag of sweets that you weren’t sure about packing? Pack them. Unexpected low? You'll be grateful you did.
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Wear your device with confidence! It can be a conversation starter, and visibility helps in emergencies.
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Feel the fear (and travel anyway) – travel anxiety is real, especially with a chronic condition. But the joy and perspective you gain on the other side? Totally worth it.
Final Words From Jess
"The anxiety is normal… but it’s so worth it when you get out there. I was nervous before going — so many “what ifs” running through my head. The heat, the walking, the blood sugars — it’s nothing you haven’t handled before.
It took me years to feel ready to travel. I didn’t do much of it for a long time — maybe because of diabetes, maybe just life. But after this trip, I know I can do it again. And honestly? If I can do it, anyone can.
Seeing other Type Ones on TikTok and Instagram gave me space to feel less stressed and more excited. So now I hope my story does the same for someone else"
The world is big, go see it!
