Tips for traveling with GLP-1 medication, wherever you roam

Amy Brownstein, MS, RDN - Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Traveling with GLP-1 medication can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. MyNetDiary shares what you need to know before you travel when taking GLP-1 medications.

Tips for traveling with GLP-1 medication

Travel can be exciting and an adventure, but if you’re taking a GLP-1 medication, a little planning can keep your journey smooth and enjoyable. Changes in routine, time zones, meals, and access to medication can affect how you feel. Here is a practical guide for traveling with GLP-1 medication.

Keep your medication close: For air travel, always stash your medication in your carry-on in case your checked luggage is lost or damaged.
Insulate and chill: Use an insulated bag and ice packs to keep your meds cool. Completely frozen-solid ice packs for medications are allowed through airport security. Still, a quick heads-up to security about your medication bag is always a good idea.
Know the fridge situation: Check that your hotel has an in-room fridge before booking. Your meds can’t stay in the cooler your whole trip! Consider wrapping your meds to prevent them from freezing, as hotel fridge temps can be unpredictable.
Set those alarms: Who remembers what day it is when they’re on vacation? Use phone alarms or reminders to schedule your GLP-1 doses, so you don’t forget while traveling.
Make a side-effect survival kit: With time zone changes and alterations to your regular routine and eating habits, side effects are likely when traveling with GLP-1 medication. Pack a little GLP-1 side-effect kit that includes ginger chews, snacks, and over-the-counter remedies to relieve constipation and nausea.
Do some restaurant reconnaissance: Check out restaurant menus ahead of time, if you can. Opt for grilled, baked, or roasted proteins and more veggies at meals. If portions are huge, try sharing with your travel buddy.
Pack protein supplements: On busy travel days, having protein supplement powders as a backup can be a lifesaver if you can’t meet protein requirements from food alone.
Remember your multivitamins: Pack along your favorite multivitamin and remember to take it daily to fill any nutritional gaps. Multivitamins ensure you get the nutrition you need, even with less-than-balanced diets. It’s a vacation–of course there’ll be more sweets!
Keep hydrated: Between airplanes and the hustle and bustle of travel, it's easy to forget to drink enough water. But staying hydrated is essential when traveling with GLP-1. Hydration may minimize side effects and give you a boost of energy for your sightseeing adventures.
Take it easy and don't hesitate to ask for help: Traveling with a GLP-1 medication can feel challenging and overwhelming with side effects and exploring new food choices. But you've got this! Planning ahead and leaning into your support network–friends, family, or MyNetDiary's Community– can make all the difference. Enjoy your trip!