Vacation shouldn't mean vacation from your health routine. Traveling with GLP-1 medication is straightforward once you know the rules. Whether flying domestically, heading international, or road-tripping, here's everything you need.
Flying: TSA and Airport Security
Injectable medications are allowed through TSA security in carry-on luggage. You should not check them—cargo holds get too cold and can damage medication.
TSA Rule: Prescription medications in liquid or gel form are exempt from the 3.4oz rule when medically necessary. GLP-1 pens qualify.
What to Bring
- Medication in original packaging with prescription label visible
- Letter from your doctor (helpful for international travel)
- Cooling case or insulated bag with ice packs
- Alcohol swabs and injection supplies
Keeping Medication Cool
GLP-1 medications must be refrigerated until first use. After first use, most stay good at room temperature (below 86°F/30°C) for 28-56 days. Check your specific medication's instructions.
Cooling Options
- Insulated medication bag: Maintains temperature for hours
- Gel ice packs: Pack around (not touching) the pen
- FRIO cooling wallets: Evaporative cooling for longer trips
- Hotel refrigerator: Request one if not standard
Never freeze your medication. If it freezes, it's ruined. Wrap ice packs so they don't directly touch the pen.
Timing Your Doses
- Before leaving: Inject a day early for travel day flexibility
- At destination: Wait until settled; hotel bathrooms work fine
- Time zones: For weekly injections, inject at your usual time in local time. A few hours difference is insignificant.
Packing Checklist
Must-Have Items
- ☐ Medication pens (enough for trip + one extra)
- ☐ Cooling case with gel ice packs
- ☐ Alcohol swabs
- ☐ Copy of prescription or doctor's letter
- ☐ Sharps container for used needles
International Travel
Different countries have different medication rules. Bring documentation:
- Prescription with name matching your passport
- Doctor's letter explaining the medication
- Original packaging with pharmacy label
- Enough medication for entire trip plus buffer
Road Trips
- Don't leave medication in a hot car—take it inside during stops
- Use a cooler with wrapped ice packs
- Hotel fridges work great for overnight storage
Vacation Eating
Give yourself permission to relax a little. The medication is still working—you'll still have appetite suppression. Prioritize protein, stay hydrated, and enjoy local food as part of your experience.
Pro tip: Take a photo of your medication label and doctor's letter. If physical copies are lost, you have backup.