Insulin Cooling Products
I tried out three different Insulin Cooling Products so you don't have to!
Let me start off by saying I think they all have their strengths and weaknesses. All of them do what they say-- keep your insulin cool. The question comes down to size, durability, style, and cooling technology! (Also- there are a LOT more brands/versions out there! This is just three that I tried. I'll update this post if I ever try more.)
You can find out more info on their respective product pages, but this is my take on the pros and cons of each!
I haven't personally taken any of these through TSA or airport security, but they all claim to be okay going though it. There are reviews that back this up.
First up, FRIO COOLING CASE.
Cost: around $30
Pros:
Price! This is the cheapest option for insulin cooling cases (that I tested)
Easy to use. Frio uses evaporation, so you soak it in water, towel dry, and you're good to go
Keeps cold for 48 hours
Fits vial or pen
Larger sizes and different colors available
Cons:
No protection (just cloth exterior)
Really can only fit one pen/vial once it's been activated. Although it advertises it can fit more, it was tough to fit 2 in this small version.
My review: I wouldn't necessarily recommend this as the best for functionality due to no protection, but price-wise it wins.
Next is the 4 All Family Brand
I am reviewing the 7-pen case. There is also a 1- pen version ($30), a 3-pen version ($40), and a different 7-pen version that can also be cooled with a USB plug ($140).
Cost: $80
Pros:
Size! This is the only case that I reviewed that comfortably fit more than one pen/vial!
Durability. The hard exterior makes me confident that the insulin will be protected.
48 hours
Other models/colors available (see note above!)
Cons:
Not practical for everyday use (better for travel!)
Vials should have vial safe protector or something to protect the glass against the stainless steel. Not necessarily a con but just something to note!
You would need a freezer to re-freeze the gel! They have another model that you can plug in.
My review: Out of these three, it's definitely the best option for traveling or carrying multiple vials/pens, but not super practical for everyday use! I'd love to try out the version that you can plug in !)
*This product was gifted, but my review is my own!
Last but not least, Penguin Cooling Case
Cost: $70 (10% off with code Megan10 !!)
Pros:
Durability! Love that it has a hard exterior while still being able to fit in a small purse
Easy to use. Works with evaporation similar to Frio case.
Seals shut (unlike Frio)
Small and looks cool (black and silver also available)
Cons:
Only fits a pen (no vials)
24 hours (other two are 48 hours)
My review: This is my favorite for day-to-day use because I can throw it in my bag and not have to worry about it getting crushed or dropped etc. It would be cool if there was this brand but for vials!
*This product was gifted, but my review is my own!
That's a wrap!! If I ever try out others I will add them to this list! Also to note that I'm not a person who ALWAYS keeps their insulin cool (and i've never had problems), but if I am going somewhere where I will be out in the sun (like the beach or something) then I will opt for one of these!
