How to Travel on a River Cruise While Taking Ozempic
- Jenifer Curtis
- May 29
- 3 min read
Smart tips to stay healthy and still enjoy Europe’s food, wine, and charm
River cruises are a dream come true — charming towns, scenic views, and immersive excursions all packed into a relaxing, slow-paced itinerary. But if you're traveling with Ozempic, Semaglutide, or Tirzepatide (like Wegovy or Mounjaro), you may be wondering how to manage your medication, appetite, and energy during your cruise.
As a travel advisor who travels with medication (and helps others do the same), here’s how to stay healthy, enjoy the food, and have your best river cruise ever.
1. Keep Your Medication Cool — Easily
Most river cruise ships have small in-room refrigerators, and many cruise lines (like Viking, AmaWaterways, or Avalon) will accommodate special medical requests.
Travel tip:
Bring a TSA-approved portable cooler for the flight
Use a small insulated pouch with ice packs for excursions if you need to bring your meds ashore
Keep your medication in your carry-on when flying — never in checked luggage. I care mine in a backpack.
2. Stick to Your Routine
Even though you're in a new time zone, try to take your medication on the same day and general time as you do at home.
Helpful tools:
Set reminders on your phone
Use a travel pill organizer
Log your dose in a health app or printable tracker (I include one in my free checklist!)
3. Watch the Wine & Rich Food Pairings
Europe’s wine regions are stunning — and tempting! But alcohol can affect your blood sugar and may cause nausea when taking Ozempic.
Enjoy wine mindfully:
Pair it with a meal, not on an empty stomach
Sip slowly and hydrate with water between drinks
One glass per day is usually enough (check with your doctor)
4. Prioritize Protein & Vegetables
River cruises often offer multi-course meals, but you don’t have to eat every bite.
My plate strategy:
Start with soup or salad
Choose lean proteins (fish, chicken, beans)
Limit heavy sauces or fried foods
Eat slowly — Ozempic works best when you listen to your fullness cues
5. Pack Smart for Health
Here’s what I never cruise without:
A cooler pouch for my Ozempic
Electrolyte drink mix (great for energy and hydration)
Ginger chews or nausea bands
Small snacks like almonds or protein bars for long excursions
A printed medication letter from my doctor (in case of emergency or customs questions)
Get My Free Checklist:
“How to Travel with Ozempic on a River Cruise”Includes what to pack, how to store your meds, and tips for staying comfortable while enjoying Europe!
Let’s Plan Your River Cruise!
As a travel advisor who specializes in travel with medications, autoimmune conditions, and special dietary needs, I help clients feel confident and safe while enjoying the trip of a lifetime.
I’m a professional travel advisor who’s spent 40+ years exploring the world. Through my experience I create and plan trips for those who are looking to turn their travel dreams into a reality. Whether you’re dreaming of Europe, an Alaskan cruise, or an extended trip to Asia. I look forward to meeting you!
💬 Let’s chat about your dream river cruise — food, wine, wellness, and all! Send me an email at jenifer@curtistravel.com and tell me a little bit about where you would like to cruise to.
Disclaimer: This blog post and checklist is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your specific medical needs and treatment while traveling. Additionally, laws and regulations regarding medication transport and usage vary by country—please check with the appropriate authorities and embassies in each country you plan to visit.
DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide we may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you, but we appreciate your support!
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