If you live with diabetes, planning an outdoor adventure often means more than just choosing where to pitch your tent. But multi-day canoe or kayak trips - drifting through remote islands, paddling wild coastlines, and camping under the stars - shouldn’t feel out of reach just because you rely on an insulin pump.
We spoke to our adventure travel partners at Skyhook Adventure about the incredible trips they offer, and how participants manage insulin pumps when they’re out on the water for days at a time. With the right gear, managing diabetes shouldn’t stop anyone from experiencing these once-in-a-lifetime adventures!
Skyhook runs a range of expeditions, including paddling trips that help people disconnect from daily life and get out and active in nature, whether that’s canoeing along the rugged West Coast of Scotland or kayaking and wild camping through Sweden’s beautiful Saint Anna Archipelago. These adventures are all about simple moments: calm lochs and coastal inlets, peaceful nights under the stars, and the freedom to explore somewhere truly remote.
One thing that makes these trips possible for many paddlers is having the right kit to protect their specialised equipment, like our Waterproof Insulin Pump Case. This clever little case keeps insulin pumps safe, dry, and easy to access, whether you’re crossing open water, tackling unexpected waves, or just paddling through a surprise rain shower. Lightweight and easy to clip to a waistband or tuck inside a dry bag, it gives you the peace of mind to focus on what really matters - the adventure ahead.
What’s important is that you understand the full itinerary and are aware of any limiting circumstances that could impact medical or other gear. For instance, the sleeping arrangements on many of these adventures is proper wild camping. This can be tricky if you need to plug in something like a sleep apnea machine.
If you’re thinking about a multi-day paddle with an insulin pump or other important medical supplies, here are a few tips:
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Keep it close: You’ll want to check your levels easily, so store your pump and testing kit where you can reach them. Aquapac’s clear case means you can check settings without unpacking everything.
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Pack extras: Always bring spare insulin, batteries, and backup supplies in an additional dry bag — extra peace of mind for you and your guide.
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Talk to your guide: A big benefit of joining a Skyhook group trip is that you have the support of an expert team. Let your guides know your needs in advance so they can plan breaks and keep an eye out for your comfort and safety.
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Test at home: Practice using your waterproof case on a short day paddle before heading out for multiple nights.
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The Aquapac Insulin Pump case is IPX6 therefore not for use underwater. It can withstand powerful jets of spray and can be immersed briefly – 5 to 20 seconds max – ideal to keep water off your pump.
Everyone’s circumstances are different, so if you have a medical condition or any concerns about your fitness, we strongly recommend seeing your doctor for a check-up and advice before setting out on these kinds of adventures.
And of course, make sure you have travel insurance that covers your trip and any pre-existing medical conditions — it’s an essential part of planning any big outdoor adventure.
Ready to bookplan your next epic big adventure? Aquapac customers get £30 GBP credit towards any Skyhook trip. Just message the Skyhook team with the code AQUAPAC30 to claim your discount and start planning your escape into the wild!