5 Tips for Flying with High Blood Pressure

Whether you're planning a weekend city break or heading somewhere more adventurous, here are our top five tips to help you safely travel with hypertension, more commonly known as high blood pressure.

Can You Fly with High Blood Pressure?

Yes, as long as your high blood pressure is under control, flying is generally considered safe. However, it’s essential to speak to your GP before booking your trip. They can advise on how to manage your hypertension while travelling, and what warning signs to look out for.

1. Choose Your Destination Wisely

Where you travel can have a surprising impact on your blood pressure. Here’s what to consider:

• Avoid extreme heat, which can lead to dehydration, dizziness or fainting
• Hilly or mountainous areas may leave you breathless or put extra strain on your heart—especially if walking is involved
• Check for toilet access, particularly if you take diuretics, as you may need frequent loo breaks
• Watch out for high altitudes. Destinations over 5,000 feet, such as areas of Peru, Mexico, China and Colombia, can raise blood pressure. The same applies to mountain resorts like the Alps
  
  

2. Try to Minimise Travel Stress

Stress is a known contributor to raised blood pressure, so aim for a calm start to your trip:

• Stay informed by checking FCDO travel advice before you go
• Pack early so you’re not rushing around last minute
• Arrive at the airport in good time, and consider an overnight stay near the terminal if you’ve got an early flight
• Use calming techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, listening to soothing music, or your favourite podcast
  
  

3. Pack Medication and Medical Devices

Being prepared can also help avoid unnecessary stress:

• Carry your medication in your hand luggage in case of delays or if you need it mid-flight
• Bring extra doses, just in case your return is postponed
• Keep a record of your medication names or a photo of the labels in case you need to visit a pharmacy abroad
• Pack your blood pressure monitor, especially if your readings are unstable or you have pulmonary hypertension
  
  

4. Stay Active During the Flight

Long flights can pose a risk for circulation, so take steps to stay healthy on board:

• Wear compression socks to reduce the risk of blood clots
• Move regularly – aim to walk around every couple of hours
• Do simple in-seat exercises to keep your blood flowing
• Stay hydrated and avoid caffeine and alcohol, both of which can contribute to dehydration and affect your blood pressure
  
  

5. Watch Your Sodium Intake

Airline food and snacks can be deceptively high in salt:

• Bring your own snacks, such as fresh or dried fruit and unsalted nuts
• Request a low-sodium meal when booking your flight to help keep your blood pressure stable

Holiday Insurance with High Blood Pressure

Before you go, it’s vital to arrange travel insurance that covers pre-existing medical conditions like high blood pressure / hypertension. If you experience complications abroad and haven’t declared your condition, your claim could be invalid.

Able2Travel offers tailored travel insurance for high blood pressure with benefits such as:

• No age limit on Single Trip policies*
• Cover for thousands of pre-existing conditions
• Emergency Medical Expenses – up to £10 million
• Trip Cancellation Protection – up to £5,000
• Travel Delay & Missed Departure – up to £1,000
• And much more…

*Anywhere in the world excluding, USA, Canada, Mexico & The Caribbean

At Able2Travel, we believe your holiday should be about making unforgettable memories—not worrying about your medical cover. That’s why we offer flexible cover to suit your needs.

For the love of travel, choose Able2Travel.

Get a Quote Today

This article is for information and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute advice in any way. The information provided here is correct at the time of writing however please check the latest policy wording for the latest terms, conditions, and exclusions.