With millions of Britons travelling over the Christmas period, users of prescription weight loss injections such as Mounjaro and Wegovy are being advised to plan carefully to protect their medication while away from home.
Figures from VisitEngland suggest around 11.6 million people are planning an overnight festive break in the UK, generating an estimated £3.3 billion for the economy. Overseas travel is also increasing, with travel agencies reporting a 20% year on year rise in holidays departing during Christmas week.
The surge in travel comes as weight loss injections become more widely used. Estimates suggest around 1.5 million people in the UK are currently taking these medications, often for weight management. Many prefer to keep their treatment private during family gatherings.
Ahsan Bhatti, pharmacist and owner of online pharmacy Quick Meds, said: “Between packed trains, flights overseas and bustling family homes, the festive season can make it trickier to store the injections at the right temperature, especially if you’re looking to keep them out of sight of friends and family.
“However, poor storage can affect how well the medication works, while a lack of planning can lead to awkward conversations or unnecessary stress for users who may want to keep their medication usage a secret.”
Storage requirements
Weight loss injections are temperature sensitive medicines and are usually supplied refrigerated. They should be stored between 2°C and 8°C before use. Once opened, some can be kept at room temperature, up to 30°C, for limited periods. Manufacturer guidance states this is up to 30 days for Mounjaro and 42 days for Wegovy.
Travelling within the UK
For domestic trips, Bhatti advises:
- Store medication in an insulated pouch with a cool pack designed for medicines.
- Avoid placing pens directly against ice packs to prevent freezing.
- Keep injections with you rather than in a car boot, where temperatures fluctuate.
- Check the patient leaflet to confirm how long the medication can safely remain at room temperature once opened.
Flying or travelling abroad
Extra preparation is needed for international travel. Mr Bhatti recommends:
- Packing injections in hand luggage, as aircraft holds can reach very low temperatures.
- Carrying a copy of your prescription or a doctor’s letter for security checks.
- Checking airport and destination country rules, as regulations around injectable medicines vary.
- Placing needles in checked baggage to reduce issues at security.
- Confirming a fridge is available at your accommodation before travelling.
UK airport security permits essential medications in hand luggage, even if they exceed the 100ml liquid limit, provided they are declared and supported by prescription documentation.
Maintaining privacy during festive gatherings
Many users prefer to keep their treatment discreet around family and friends. Bhatti suggests:
- Using a plain, non medical travel case.
- Keeping unopened medication inside a toiletry or skincare bag.
- Storing injections in a zipped or locked suitcase rather than a shared fridge.
- Setting phone reminders to take medication quietly.
Bhatti said: “The chaotic nature of Christmas often means disrupted routines, shared spaces and plenty of travelling, but this doesn’t have to throw off your weight loss journey. With careful planning and by taking a few simple steps before your travels, users can more easily keep their medication safe, effective and private.
“This is particularly important when travelling abroad, as replacing medication that has been spoiled in the heat can be particularly difficult, and it’s important to stick to your recommended dosage and routine.
“Whether traveling at home or abroad this festive season, it’s vital that users store their weight loss injections correctly, ensuring it’s not kept in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
“Equally, medication that has been frozen or stored outside the recommended conditions should not be used and should be disposed of safely and responsibly. If you are unsure whether your medication is still safe to use, seek advice from a healthcare professional.”