The Travel Guide: Staying on Track with Mounjaro and Wegovy While Travelling

Travelling with weight-loss injections like Mounjaro (tirzepatide) or Wegovy (semaglutide) doesn't have to derail your progress or cause unnecessary stress. Whether you're planning a holiday getaway, business trip, or visiting family, staying consistent with your medication routine is crucial for maintaining the best results.

At Happy Pharmacy, we understand that life doesn't stop for your weight-loss journey. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide to help you navigate travel confidently whilst keeping your treatment safe, effective, and on schedule.

Why Consistent Treatment Matters During Travel

Both Mounjaro and Wegovy are prescription weight-loss injections that work by mimicking hormones in your body to regulate appetite and improve satiety. These medications help reduce calorie intake by naturally making you feel fuller for longer and less interested in food.

Stopping and starting these treatments could cause more side effects or make them less effective. Maintaining your weekly injection schedule, even whilst travelling, ensures you continue benefiting from appetite control and steady progress towards your weight-loss goals.

Essential Travel Checklist for Weight-Loss Injections

1. Carry-On Bag Essentials

• Never pack your medication in checked luggage.

• Always store your Mounjaro or Wegovy in your carry-on bag where you can monitor conditions.

2. Documentation Requirements

At airport security, you'll need to declare your medication. To ensure smooth passage through security:

• Keep medication in its original packaging with the prescription label attached

• Bring a doctor's note for additional verification

• Pack the patient information leaflet that comes with your medication

• Store medication and needles in a clear, plastic bag separate from other hand luggage

Contact your airline provider beforehand if you have specific queries about carry-on rules.

3. Temperature Control Solutions

Invest in a cool bag designed for carrying medications. This ensures you can maintain the correct temperature when you don't have immediate access to refrigeration.

• Mounjaro: Extends travel flexibility beyond the 30-day unrefrigerated timeframe.

• Wegovy: Can be stored safely for up to 6 weeks after first use when kept below 30°C.

4. Accommodation Planning

Phone ahead to confirm refrigerator access.

Mounjaro storage:

• In a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C) – do not freeze

• Unrefrigerated (not above 30°C) for up to 30 days maximum

Wegovy storage:

• In a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C) – do not freeze

• After first use – store below 30°C or preferably in a refrigerator for up to 6 weeks

• Keep the pen cap on when not in use to protect from light

Important:

• Discard Mounjaro if unrefrigerated for longer than 30 days or exposed to temperatures above 30°C.

• Discard Wegovy after 6 weeks from first use.

5. Medication and Supplies

Pack enough pens for your entire trip but avoid taking excess.

Don't forget to pack:

• Adequate needles for each injection plus spares

• A small, travel-sized sharps bin

• Any dose adjustment schedules from your doctor

International Travel Considerations

Before travelling abroad with Mounjaro or Wegovy, research the medical regulations of your destination.

Some countries may:

• Have restrictions on specific medications

• Require documentation such as medical certificates

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before departure.

Airport Security Note:
X-rays at airport security do not affect Mounjaro or Wegovy. However, if you have concerns, speak with airport security or your healthcare provider.

Maintaining Your Treatment Schedule While Away

Managing Dose Changes During Travel

If you're following a dose escalation schedule, plan ahead.

• Mounjaro: Increases from 2.5mg up to 15mg

• Wegovy: Follows its own titration schedule

If you're due for a dose increase:

• Ensure you’ve packed enough supplies for both doses

• Consider delaying the increase after discussing with your doctor

• Never change doses without medical supervision

You may adjust your injection day within the week per patient information guidelines, but avoid frequent changes.

Staying Nutritionally on Track

Smart Travel Eating Strategies:

• Don’t skip meals to "save up" – this can backfire

• Prioritise protein and vegetables

• Choose indulgences mindfully

• Watch liquid calories

• Listen to your body’s natural hunger/fullness cues

Practical Tips:

• Pack healthy snacks

• Research food options

• Stay hydrated

• Plan balanced meals including protein, fibre, and healthy fats

Maintaining Physical Activity

Exercise boosts the effectiveness of weight-loss injections and helps manage travel stress.

Tips:

• Pack light workout gear

• Use online fitness videos

• Make sightseeing active

• Walk after meals

• Explore pools or outdoor activities

Managing Holiday and Travel Challenges

Social Eating Situations

• Eat a small meal before gatherings

• Survey food before choosing

• Avoid standing near snack tables

• Bring a dish you enjoy

Emotional Eating and Travel Stress

Mounjaro and Wegovy reduce physical hunger, but not emotional triggers.

Alternative strategies:

• Go for a walk

• Practice deep breathing

• Journal your thoughts

• Focus on non-food traditions

• Stay connected with support

Storage Challenges on Extended Trips

For trips:

• Over 30 days with Mounjaro

• Over 6 weeks with Wegovy

...consult your healthcare provider.

General storage tips:

• Keep medication out of direct sunlight

• Keep Wegovy’s cap on when not in use

• Avoid storing in warm, humid rooms

• Use insulated bags during transit

• Monitor temperature in fridges

Comparing Travel Requirements: Mounjaro vs Wegovy

Choose based on medical advice, not travel convenience—although Wegovy’s longer post-use storage may offer flexibility.

Safety and Regulation: Why Choose Happy Pharmacy

At Happy Pharmacy, we provide:

• MHRA-approved medications

• Online consultations with qualified UK pharmacists

• Ongoing support and monitoring

• Reliable medication supply

Avoid unregulated online sellers. Your safety matters.

Emergency Situations and Support

Contact Happy Pharmacy immediately if your medication has been:

• Frozen

• Exposed to extreme heat

• Out of refrigeration too long

• Damaged or contaminated

We’ll advise on the safest next steps.

Final Thoughts: Travel with Confidence

Travel doesn't have to derail your weight-loss progress. With good planning, a clear routine, and professional support, you can stay consistent on your journey with Mounjaro or Wegovy.

Let your treatment support your adventures—don’t let it hold you back.  Come and start your journey with Happy Pharmacy.

Blog medically reviewed by : Palvinder Deol, GPhC Registered Pharmacist, 28 May 2025

References

1. Jastreboff AM, Aronne LJ, Ahmad NN, et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity. N Engl J Med. 2022;387(3):205-216.

2. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Tirzepatide for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus. NICE technology appraisal guidance 924. London: NICE; 2023.

3. NHS England. Managing weight and healthy eating.

4. Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. Travelling with medicines. London: MHRA; 2023.

5. British Dietetic Association. Holiday nutrition advice for weight management. Birmingham: BDA; 2023.