How to plan, pack and store your weight loss pen when travelling abroad.
Travelling with your weight loss medication takes a little extra planning beyond checking your passport and picking up your currency. It's essential to coordinate your treatment schedule and understand the rules for taking medication abroad.
Below are our top tips to help you prepare for a stress-free trip.
How do I check I have enough doses?
Plan ahead by working out whether you have enough doses left in your current pen to last through your holiday and until you're back home. Check your calendar to see how many doses you have left and when your next order is due.
Your weight loss pen is taken once weekly, and each pen contains 4 doses. You can re-order your pen from 15 days after the successful clinical approval of your current pen. If you think you may run out, contact our Patient Care team to discuss your options.
What paperwork do I need?
The UK Government advises anyone travelling outside of the UK to carry physical proof that any medication they're travelling with is prescribed to them. This should be a letter or a copy of your signed prescription.
We can provide this if you contact our Patient Care team in good time before you depart. Please allow at least 7 days' notice so we can arrange it, then pack a physical copy alongside your medication.
What rules do I need to follow?
UK Government rules on travelling with medication should be followed at all times, and it's essential to check the rules of your specific airline and airport too. Your destination country may also have different rules for certain medications.
It's your responsibility to understand and follow the rules. Read the UK Government's country A-Z foreign travel advice for current guidance.
How do I pack my medication for travel?
It's vital to pack your weight loss medication properly, especially if you'll be flying. Always check with your airline for specific information.
Always pack your medication in your hand luggage, as hold luggage can go missing and is subject to freezing in the plane hold
Keep your medication in its original packaging so it can be easily identified by airport staff and border control
If you've not started using your pen, keep it cool while travelling - you can use a compact cool bag lined with the cooling gel packs and Woolcool packaging we sent your medication in
If you've already started using your pen, it can be transported at room temperature up to 30°C, but keep it out of bright light and away from direct heat
For extra peace of mind, retailers such as BreezyPacks and FRIO offer specially designed temperature-controlled travel pouches. Please note Phlo isn't affiliated with any third-party medical retail brands and is not liable for the efficacy of their products.
How do I store my pen while abroad?
The same storage rules apply on holiday as at home. Check in advance that your accommodation has a private fridge, and you can cheaply buy a digital fridge thermometer to confirm the temperature range is suitable.
Pen status | How to store |
Not yet used | Refrigerate between 2°C and 8°C before first use |
Already in use | Keep at room temperature up to 30°C for no more than 30 days, out of direct sunlight and heat, and away from the sight and reach of children |
Helpful UK Government travel links
What if I might run out while away?
If your calculations suggest you could run out during your trip, contact our Patient Care team as early as possible. They can talk through your re-order timing and options before you leave.
How long before travel should I request my prescription letter?
Please allow at least 7 days' notice before your departure date so we can arrange your prescription letter or a copy of your signed prescription in time.