With planning, you can travel confidently on GLP-1 treatment. This article explains airport security rules, the documents to bring, how to keep pens at a safe temperature and how to handle time zones and missed doses.
Airport security and packing checklist
- Carry pens and needles in hand luggage in an insulated pouch.
- Keep medicines in original packaging with printed labels.
- Bring your prescription or a doctor letter that lists the medicine, dose and device.
- Pack alcohol wipes and spare needles if required for your pen.
At screening, explain that the pens are prescription medicines. Medical exceptions usually allow gel packs to keep medicines cool, subject to inspection.
Documents for EU and non EU trips
Carry a copy of your prescription, a doctor letter and pharmacy contact details. If you need supplies while abroad, contact your dispensing pharmacy for advice on safe legal options. Rules on needles and medicines vary by country, so check before you travel.
Cold chain on the move
Use an insulated pouch for the journey. Do not place pens in checked luggage where temperatures can go out of range. On arrival, store pens in a fridge promptly. If a pen has frozen or become hot, ask a pharmacist before use.
Time zones and flight day routine
Keep your weekly injection on the same weekday where possible. If a large time zone change makes this hard, move the injection time gradually in the week before travel or ask your doctor for a simple plan.
Keep hydrated on the flight, avoid heavy meals and store pens under the seat rather than in warm overhead bins.
Ordering and budgeting before you go
Order early and check stock a week before the trip. Buy for the dose you are on and plan for reviews. For our current prices see Mounjaro and Wegovy. If you are exploring online ordering, see our step by step guide.
Supports available in Ireland
- Citizens Information, airport security and baggage rules
- Citizens Information, cross border prescriptions
- HPRA, authorised medicine record: Mounjaro
- HPRA, authorised medicine record: Wegovy
FAQs
Do I need a doctor letter to carry pens and needles?
Bring a doctor letter and a copy of your prescription. Carry pens in original packaging with labels and present items at screening when asked.
Can I use cooling gel packs at security?
Medical exceptions usually allow gel packs to keep medicines cool. Security may inspect them, so have them ready with your paperwork.
What if my injection day falls during a long flight?
Move the injection time gradually before travel or ask your doctor for a plan. Keep to the same weekday where possible.
What if a pen looks damaged?
Do not use pens that have frozen, become hot or look abnormal. Ask a pharmacist for advice and arrange a replacement if needed.
If you would like to order Mounjaro or Wegovy online, fill out a quick questionnaire with our online doctor partner, Zava.
