If you’ve started a medically supervised weight loss programme using a GLP-1 receptor agonist or dual-action GLP-1/GIP therapy, it’s essential to maintain your injection schedule — even while travelling. Stopping and restarting treatment can increase side effects and reduce the medication’s overall effectiveness.
Whether you’re heading away for a weekend or taking a long-haul flight, here’s everything you need to know to travel safely and confidently with your prescribed weight loss injections.
Can I Travel with My Injection Pens?
Yes — but some simple planning is essential to ensure your medication stays safe, effective, and compliant with local laws.
Key Tips for Travelling with Weight Loss Injections
- Bring Documentation
When going through airport security or customs, you may be asked to declare your medication. To avoid delays, we recommend the following:
- Keep your prescription medication in its original packaging with the pharmacy label showing your name, dosage, and prescribing doctor
- Have a digital or printed copy of your prescription approval (from your doctor or clinic)
- Keep a note from your doctor if available (optional, but helpful in certain countries)
- Use a Medical Travel Cooler
GLP-1 injections are temperature-sensitive. To protect your medication in transit:
- Use an insulated cool bag or portable medical cooler
- Include a reusable ice pack or cooling element
- Store pens upright and avoid shaking
- Keep out of direct sunlight and do not freeze
Storage Guidelines for GLP-1 and Dual-Action Medications
While exact requirements vary slightly by product, most follow these general rules:
| Storage Condition | Guidance |
| Refrigerated Storage | 2°C to 8°C — keep refrigerated until use; do not freeze |
| Temporary Room Temperature | Max 30°C for up to 30 days (single-use pens only) |
| After First Use (multi-dose pens) | Store below 30°C; refrigerate when possible |
| Light Sensitivity | Keep pen cap on to protect from light |
Always follow the specific guidance provided with your prescription and consult your pharmacist if you are unsure.
- Book Accommodation with a Fridge
Whenever possible, stay in hotels or rentals with in-room refrigeration to store your medication safely. This will allow you to avoid relying entirely on the 30-day unrefrigerated limit.
Before You Travel
- Check medication import laws in your destination country (some require documentation for controlled or injectable meds)
- Pack extra doses in case of travel delays
- Bring backup supplies (needles, alcohol swabs, sharps container or sealed disposal)
- Set reminders for your weekly injection to stay on track
Can I Skip a Dose While Travelling?
It’s not recommended. Skipping doses can disrupt your progress, increase gastrointestinal side effects on re-start, and make it harder to maintain appetite control.
Speak with your prescribing doctor before your trip if you expect to miss a dose or need to adjust your timing.
Summary: Travel Checklist for GLP-1 Injections
✔ Medication in original packaging with pharmacy label
✔ Prescription documentation (email or digital proof)
✔ Medical cooler bag + ice pack
✔ Travel-friendly sharps disposal method
✔ Extra pens/doses (just in case)
✔ Accommodation with a fridge (where possible)
✔ Injection schedule reminders
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re exploring Europe, flying abroad, or heading out on a weekend getaway, traveling with weight loss medication is entirely manageable with proper planning.
Your treatment shouldn’t stop just because your routine changes. Stay consistent, stay cool (literally), and stay on track.
Want to Start a Medically Supervised Weight Loss Programme?
Our Irish-registered doctors provide access to GLP-1 and dual-action therapies through private prescription, with full support, transparent pricing, and flexible fulfilment options.
