Our Top Tips for Going on Holiday with a Hernia

If you’re living with a hernia and dreaming of your next getaway, you might be wondering—can you fly with a hernia? The short answer is yes, you can. But it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to minimise them. With the right preparation, you can enjoy going on holiday with a hernia safely and comfortably.

Here are our top tips to help you plan your trip and travel with confidence.

Before You Travel: Planning Ahead

Speak to Your Doctor

Before making any travel plans, it’s essential to consult your GP or specialist. They’ll be able to assess the severity of your hernia and advise whether it’s safe for you to travel. If you get the all-clear, you can start planning with peace of mind.

Choose the Right Destination

It’s a good idea to pick a destination where you’ll have easy access to medical facilities. Make sure your accommodation is close to a hospital or clinic, just in case you need urgent care. A little forward planning can make all the difference in an emergency.

Plan Gentle Activities

While you might feel up to doing more, strenuous activities such as hiking, swimming, or sports can aggravate a hernia. Consider planning a relaxing break with plenty of downtime. Gentle walks, sightseeing, or lounging by the pool might be better options than high-intensity excursions.

Pack Smart

When going on holiday with a hernia, packing the right essentials will make your trip more comfortable. Don’t forget:

• Medications – Bring a good supply of any prescribed medications, plus over-the-counter pain relief or antacids.
• Supportive Garments – Items like abdominal binders or hernia belts can provide extra support during your trip.
• First Aid Kit – Include any supplies recommended by your healthcare provider, such as bandages and antiseptic wipes.

Tips for Flying with a Hernia

Avoid Heavy Lifting

Lifting heavy bags can put strain on your hernia and increase the risk of complications. Try to pack light, use wheeled luggage, and ask for assistance with your bags at the airport when needed.

Move Around Regularly

Sitting still for long periods can increase pressure on your hernia. If possible, book an aisle seat or one with extra legroom so you can move around more easily. Take regular walks up and down the cabin to relieve pressure and improve circulation.

Notify the Cabin Crew

Let the cabin crew know about your condition. They’ll be happy to assist you during the flight and can make any necessary accommodations to keep you comfortable.

Eat Light and Stay Hydrated

Before and during your flight, opt for light, easy-to-digest meals. Avoid spicy, fatty, or acidic foods that could trigger discomfort. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, but steer clear of alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you and worsen symptoms.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance That Covers Hernias

Having the right travel insurance in place is essential, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition like a hernia. Not all policies will automatically cover it, and some may exclude them due to the risk of complications, such as strangulation or the need for emergency surgery. That’s why it’s important to declare your condition and find a policy that includes hernia travel insurance.

At Able2Travel, we offer specialist travel insurance that covers pre-existing medical conditions, including hernias. That means you can explore the world knowing you’re covered if you need sudden medical treatment abroad.

Travel with Confidence with Able2Travel

At Able2Travel, we understand that travel should be about adventure, discovery, and making unforgettable memories—not worrying about medical cover. With over 20 years of experience, we provide tailored travel insurance for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, ensuring you can explore the world with peace of mind.

Our policies offer three levels of cover for both Single Trip and Annual Multi-Trip policies, allowing you to choose a plan that suits your travel needs. Whether you’re heading off on a cultural city break, a sun-drenched beach holiday, or a once-in-a-lifetime journey, Able2Travel ensures you’re protected every step of the way.

Key benefits of our travel insurance include:

• No Age Limit on Single Trip Policies – applicable to Areas 1, 2, 3 & 4
• Coverage for 1,000s of Pre-existing Conditions – including heart conditions, diabetes, and cancer
• Emergency Medical Expenses – up to £10 million per person
• Trip Cancellation Protection – up to £5,000 per person
• Travel Delay & Missed Departure – up to £1,000

And much more…

For the love of travel, choose Able2Travel.

Wherever your travels take you, choose Able2Travel for a worry-free experience. Get a quote today and travel with confidence.

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.