Travelling With High Blood Pressure: Explore Without Compromise

Travelling with high blood pressure doesn't have to be stressful. With the right preparation and care, you can enjoy a worry-free journey. It is estimated that in the UK, over a quarter of adults have have some form of high blood pressure, but that shouldn't stop you from making the most of your travels.

A traveller's guide to exploring the world with high blood pressure: Essential, insightful, and travel-friendly advice!

In this guide, we'll explore practical tips for managing high blood pressure while travelling - from planning and packing to staying healthy on the move - so you can feel confident and prepared for your next adventure.

Travel vaccinations

• Speak to your doctor or nurse to see if there are any specific vaccinations you may need or if they will interfere with any medication you are currently taking.

• High-altitude or deep-water activities can put extra strain on your body as it works harder to pump oxygen, potentially affecting your blood pressure. Before taking part, consult your doctor to ensure it's safe for you. If you plan to visit high-altitude destinations, there are ways to manage your blood pressure effectively while there.

Flying with high blood pressure - How to stay safe and comfortable in the air:

In most cases, air travel doesn't pose an immediate risk for passengers with high blood pressure. However, the stress of travelling - along with factors like cabin pressure and dehydration - can sometimes cause temporary spikes. The key to a smooth, stress-free journey? A few simple habits can go a long way in keeping your blood pressure in check while you fly. Here's what you need to know:

Skip the caffeine fix

• As tempting as that pre-flight coffee might be, caffeine can raise blood pressure in as little as 20 minutes. Opt for water or a herbal tea instead to stay hydrated and avoid unnecessary increases.

Keep moving

• Sitting still for long periods isn't great for circulation. Try to get up and stretch your legs every hour or so when it's safe to do so. This will help reduce the risk of your blood pressure building and will leave you feeling fresher when you land.

Compression socks

• If you're on a long flight or at higher risk, compression socks can be a game-changer. Just be sure to check the fit - if they are too tight, they could do more harm than good!

How do I declare my high blood pressure?

Declaring your high blood pressure when buying travel insurance is quick and straightforward - and it's an important step to make sure you're fully covered on your trip.

Once you've entered your details into the form at the top of the page, you'll be guided through our medical screening process. Here, you'll answer a few simple questions about your pre-existing medical conditions. Be sure to answer honestly - this ensures you get the right policy tailored to your needs and, more importantly, avoids any issues if you ever need to make a claim. Rest assured that all your personal information is handled with complete care and confidentiality.

Some questions you may be asked in your medical screening include:

• How many medicines does your doctor advise you to take for high blood pressure?
• Has your dose been increased or have you been prescribed a new tablet in the last 6 months?
• Have you ever been a smoker?
• Have you been advised to take medication to lower your cholesterol?
• Has a blood test EVER at any time shown your cholesterol level to be raised?
• Have you been advised to take medication for high blood pressure?

By keeping these tips in mind, you can travel with confidence, knowing your health and comfort are well taken care of. With the right preparation, you'll be ready to set off on a safe and memorable journey, making the most of every experience. So, embrace the adventure and remember - travel is for everyone, and the world is yours to discover, one trip at a time!

If you don't disclose high blood pressure or other medical conditions when arranging travel insurance, any claims related to it could be invalid. The medical screening process is straightforward, completely confidential, and ensures you have the appropriate coverage for peace of mind during your travels. For more details, visit our medical conditions travel insurance page.

This guide is here to offer helpful tips and general advice, but for tailored guidance specific to your health and travel plans, it's always best to consult your doctor before you go.