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Keeping your insulin cool is always important, especially if you are traveling in hot weather, as insulin is temperature sensitive and can break quickly under heat.
I have tested many different products and found 7 best insulin coolers and travel cases that will help keep insulin cool.
Inslink Cooler and Travel Case Review
There are many different types of insulin mobile cases and coolers, but to make your choice easier, we have listed the best insulin coolers and travel cases below. Read detailed reviews of each product.
We also have a buying guide that includes everything you need to know about these coolers and cases.
Overall best
4allfamily 7 pen ins link cooler travel case
This travel case offers three cooling settings to accommodate a variety of travel needs, from simple city trips to extreme temperature settings.
First cooling method Use Biogel. This should be frozen for a minimum of 6 hours before.
After sitting at room temperature for a while, store it with insulin and safely store it in hot temperatures for about two days.
The second way It involves adding a refrigerated cap to convert the device into a minifridge.
This is not battery powered, but comes with a USB charger that allows you to connect your refrigerator wherever you are.
The last way It involves using a refrigerated cap with the biogel.
If the outside temperature is below 104°F, this combined method allows insulin to be maintained between 36-45°F for 50 hours and between 36-79°F for 70 hours.
This is ideal if you are traveling longer trips.
This case is TSA approved and can hold 6-8 insulin vials or pens depending on the formula brand.
With a large capacity and three cooling options, this is one of the best inslink cooler cases you can invest in.
- Can hold many insulin pens or vials
- Can be converted to a mini insulin refrigerator with a USB cable
- The design looks good and doesn’t look like a medical storage device
- The large capacity of the case means it’s a substantial product, which can make it even more difficult to carry around on the go.
Buy on Amazon
You can see my full review of 4Allfamily Cooler and a demonstration of how to use it in this video.
The best look
Julioinsulin Cooling Case Wallet
Frio’s insulin cooling bag uses clever technology that involves evaporation of water to keep its contents cool.
They are activated with water, but they remain dry to the touch, allowing you to keep them in your pocket or bag without worrying about leaks.
Once the outside temperature reaches 100°F, the bag will keep the insulin below 77°F for 48 hours.
They are lightweight and portable, can be reused repeatedly and work well to protect the supply of insulin during the hot summer.
The bag comes in a variety of sizes and colors, but we recommend a larger size that can store six 10ml insulin vials or five insulin pens.
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Provides 48 hours of cooling
- Available in a variety of colors and designs
- Water is required to re-activate the cooling function
Buy it in the cold
Best self-cooling
A refreshing pack
These compact, portable cooling devices are easy to use and do not require maintenance costs.
These are perfect for those traveling as they don’t require batteries, ice packs or the power to function.
The insulin products should be stored in the pouch and closed and zipped.
Each refreshing pack keeps the medication at room temperature during the day and automatically charges at night when the temperature sinks below 75°F.
The cooling pack is made of PCMS (phase change material) that releases and absorbs energy in response to external temperatures.
This energy cycle can be repeated many times, so you can see that these packs are built to last for a while.
- Very easy to use, you just zip the consumables in the case
- The nightly charging function means your insulin is always safe
- Can’t deal with sustained high temperatures
Buy it at breezypacks
The best single pen cooler
Vivi Cap Thermal Insulin Pen Cooler
Vivi Cap is a tropical case designed to prevent insulin pens from overheating or freezing. The latest version also works with durable pens and smart pens.
It’s very easy to use as you simply replace the insulin pen cap with a Vivi cap and wait for the light to turn green.
If it turns red, the pen should be refrigerated for an hour until it turns green. Alternatively, it should be kept in an environment below 79°F for a minimum of 5 hours.
The biggest part about this product is that you don’t need a battery pack, water or ice.
The Vivi cap can keep your insulin pen cold at temperatures below 84.2°F.
Overall, this is one of the noisiest ways to keep your insulin pen safe while traveling.
- A compact and lightweight design that can easily fit in your bag, pocket or backpack.
- Very easy to use “click-and-go” style products put the hassle of keeping your insulin safe on the go.
- 3-year warranty.
- You can only process one pen at a time.
Buy it on Tempramed
The best cooling backpack
Sugar Medical Insulation Sling Backpack
These sling style backpacks from Sugar Medical are lightweight and compact, but can store many medical essentials.
The main compartment is completely insulated and has area to hold the ice pack. This will help keep your medicine cool along with other supplies.
The front compartment is easily accessible and has many pockets and loops to store insulin, test strips and glucose meters.
It also has specific pockets designed to store keys and phones, as well as side areas for storing water bottles.
The padded straps on the backpack can be converted, so you can adjust them to wear them on either shoulder.
Available in three colors, the backpack is perfect for those who need important supplies stored in one cool, accessible location.
- Insulated compartment with ice pack pockets to keep insulin supply safe from heat
- You can store some diabetes products and other personal items
Buy it at Sugar Medical
Best thing in a cooling pack
Disoncare 7 Pen 74h Inslink Cooler Travel Case
This stainless steel insulin cooling container holds seven standard sized insulin pens and can be held cold for 35 hours between 36°F and 46°F.
Using a natural biogel freeze pack that freezes at 36°F makes it cold and does not freeze insulin or other medications stored in the case.
An important feature of the bottle is the QR medical tag. You can scan the code to display important medical information along with the diabetes and medical travel documents you need.
- Holds up to 7 insulin pens
- Strong stainless steel build to resist damage
- Gel Freeze Pack that Cannot Freeze Insulin
- QR codes to display medical information
- Compared to other versions, bulky design
Buy it on DisonCare
Most affordable prices
Apollo Walker Inslink Cooler Travel Case
This travel case from Apollo Walker can effectively insulate its contents and protect the insulin supply from external heat for up to 12 hours, as long as the ice pack remains frozen.
The case comes with two latex-free, non-toxic ice gel packs. These should be frozen for 14 hours before use in the case.
They are reusable and work well to keep the contents of the case safe and cool, but you should be careful not to touch the medicine directly with an ice pack.
The case also comes with a buffer pack that prevents overcooling.
The outer lining is water-reflective, making it easy to wipe off any dirt and spills.
Apart from the supply of insulin, the case has an area to store additional lancet needles, several needle caps and alcohol pads.
- Padded insulation lining keeps your drug supply cool and safe from heat
- Water resistant material is durable and easy to clean
- There are a variety of colors
- Less high tech than other options
- Not good for longer trips
Buy on Amazon
Buying Guide
Insulin that is not properly stored can deteriorate and may lose its effectiveness. Injecting rotten insulin can have a negative effect on blood sugar levels, leading to hyperglycemia.
Here are some things to keep in mind when purchasing an Inslink Cooler or Case:
The best temperature for storing insulin
Unopened insulin supplies should be stored in the fridge between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C). These consumables are safe until the expiration date is labeled on the container.
The open insulin supply should be used within 28 days of removal from the refrigerator.
These should be stored at room temperature below 86°F (30°C) during this period. A higher temperature can ruin the insulin and make it inappropriate for use.
Do not store insulin in the freezer or on the opposite side of the refrigerator’s cooling components. Freezing quickly makes insulin effective.
What does rotten insulin look like?
Insulin is usually a colorless, clear liquid medicine. If insulin stored in a vial, pen, or cartridge appears to contain cloudy or lumps, it may indicate rot or decomposition. (Certain insulin products are cloudy, so make sure you know the type you have and whether it should be cloudy.)
In most cases, you can find rotten insulin with the naked eye.
If you suspect that insulin is getting worse, dispose of the item and get a new supply from the fridge.
Can you find out more about how to find out if your insulin has been ruined or expired in your guide?
Choose the best inslinker
All inslinkers are different, so the best inslinkers for you will depend on your situation.
You need to consider:
- Cooling power (refrigerator temperature vs. room temperature)
- Cooling time
- Cooling methods (heat insulation and electric vs. water, etc.)
- Weight and capacity (size)
- TSA approved for travel
- looks
We cover some of the most common features of Inslink Cooler below, so you can see what to look for when buying these accessories.
Cooling power
The insulin cooler in this review is designed to keep insulin below room temperature, but does not cool more aggressively due to the lack of an external power source for cooling.
The only exception is 4allfamily Cooler. This can be converted to a small insulin fridge using a USB-powered refrigerator cap.
Cooling method and duration
If you’re traveling for longer periods of very hot weather, or in places where refrigerated or air conditioning is not available, it’s important to choose a cooler that works with the available ones.
4allfamily, Disoncare, Sugar Medical and Apollo Coolers use ice packs, making them perfect for nighttime travel with fridge access. On the plus side, they can keep your insulin cool all day long.
The Julio cooler uses water evaporation to keep you cool at 100°F for up to 48 hours. This makes them extremely versatile.
Breezypacks uses high-tech insulation that automatically charges at nights when the temperature is below 75°F. This makes it easy to bring anywhere, but it’s unrealistic even in extremely hot weather.
Vivi Cap uses simple insulation to cool your insulin pen. It also warns you when insulin gets too hot and needs to find frozen. Perfect for daily use, but not suitable for travel in hot weather. It also works only with insulin pens.
Portable Travel Fridge
If you’ve been traveling for more than a few weeks and need to bring lots of insulin, you may need an actual travel fridge.
Electric or battery-powered insulin refrigerators can keep insulin cool indefinitely as long as you have regular access to electricity.
There is a complete review of the best portable insulin fridges.
Case capacity
Always make sure your cooler capacity is large enough to hold the amount of insulin you need for your journey.
Some pen cap coolers can only store one insulin pen from the heat. This is suitable for everyday purposes, but not for travel where many insulin pens need to be cooled.
If you need to keep some insulin pens or vials cool, the most capacity insulin coolers are 4allfamily and disoncare, both of which can hold up to 7 pens.
TSA approved cases
If you live with diabetes and plan to fly, you need to make sure your travel case is TSA approved.
Due to temperature settings and dangerous atmospheric conditions of flat hold, do not store diabetes supply and insulin in checked luggage. Medical supplies must only be carried on a carry-on vehicle.
Make sure that your Inslinkor is approved before you purchase.
All coolers in this review should be TSA approved or not required.
A guide to traveling with diabetes and you can read more about flying with insulin.
FAQ
Do you need a doctor’s note to fly with insulin?
TSA currently does not require medical documents covering diabetes medications and supplies.
Nevertheless, having a medical certificate can help prevent misunderstandings and speed up the screening process, especially if you are traveling internationally.
Ask a note that you live with diabetes and a note asking for the medication and supply you need to fly with.
How can I keep my insulin cold during a month or more travel?
The rule is that insulin should not be kept from the refrigerator at room temperature for more than 28 days.
If you are spending time at a hotel, there are refrigerators that can be used in many hotels and hostels, but be sure to check in advance to avoid any issues.
You can also invest in a travel cooler with ice, a mini fridge, or a travel cooler that can keep your medication safe.
Can insulin be in checked baggage?
No, do not store in checked luggage as the temperature of the cargo can freeze insulin and is useless.
Always store insulin in your baggage and keep lancets, test strips, needles and pens in clear plastic bags to check for security.
You should also keep travel letters with these fixtures in case more checks are needed.
