Flying with DVT: What You Need to Know Before You Travel

If you've recently been diagnosed with Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or are recovering from a blood clot in your leg, the idea of flying could understandably be causing you concern. The risk of developing complications like a pulmonary embolism when flying with a blood clot means it’s vital to approach travel with care and medical guidance. A pulmonary embolism is when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in your lungs. It can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.

This article covers some of the key things you should know about flying with DVT, a few tips to make flying safer, and how travel insurance from Able2Travel could give you extra peace of mind.

Can You Fly with a Blood Clot in Your Leg?

In short: not immediately. If you have been diagnosed with a blood clot or are recovering from one, healthcare professionals generally recommend waiting at least four weeks before flying. That’s because long-haul flights—or any situation where you’re sitting for long periods—can increase your risk of further clotting or complications.

Before making any travel plans, always speak to your GP or Healthcare specialist. They’ll assess your condition and advise whether it’s safe for you to fly.

If your GP or healthcare specialist does give you the go-ahead, then there are some things you can do to make flying a little bit more comfortable for yourself.

Our Top Tips to Consider Before Flying

1. Book a Spacious Seat

Try to reserve an aisle seat or if you can afford it, pay for extra legroom to give yourself space to stretch and move around. Exit row seats are another good option.

2. Notify the Airline

Let the airline know about your condition. This can help the crew be more understanding if you need to stand or walk around regularly during the flight.

3. Check Medical Facilities at Your Destination

If you're travelling somewhere remote, where access to medical care may be limited, it’s worth considering whether this is the right trip for you—especially if your DVT is recent or you’re at higher risk of complications.

4. Choose the Right Travel Insurance

Not all policies cover pre-existing conditions, so look for deep vein thrombosis travel insurance that includes Emergency Medical Cover, Cancellation, and Delay Protection. This ensures you’re protected if your condition flares up before or during your trip.

Tips to Help Prevent Blood Clots When Flying

1. Wear Compression Socks

Compression socks help maintain healthy blood flow in your legs. They apply gentle pressure to your lower limbs, assisting blood circulation and reducing the risk of swelling or clotting. Make sure you’re using the correct size and compression level—check with your doctor before flying.

2. Re-think Your Cabin Luggage

Avoid placing bulky items under the seat in front of you, as this restricts leg movement. Store your hand luggage in the overhead locker to give yourself the maximum amount of room to stretch out.

3. Move, Stretch & Massage

Avoid sitting still for too long. Aim to walk the aisle at least once an hour and try these exercises while seated:

• Flex your ankles up and down
• Bring one knee toward your chest and hold for 10–15 seconds
• Use a tennis or massage ball under your thigh or calf to improve blood flow

4. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can make your blood thicker, increasing the risk of clotting. Drink at least one glass of water (around 250ml) every two hours. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated coffee, as both are diuretics and can cause dehydration.

5. Dress for Circulation

Wear loose, comfortable clothing, especially around the waist and legs. Tight garments can restrict circulation and limit movement.

Can You Fly with a DVT? Here's the Bottom Line

Flying with blood clots isn’t necessarily off-limits forever—but it does require careful planning, the all-clear from your doctor, and the right travel insurance. Whether you’re flying short-haul or heading further afield, avoiding DVT when flying is possible with the right preparation.

Travel with Confidence with Able2Travel Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Travel Insurance

At Able2Travel, we believe travel should be about making memories—not worrying about your medical cover. With over 20 years of experience, we specialise in travel insurance for DVT. Our policies are tailored to support travellers with pre-existing medical conditions, so you can explore the world with confidence.

Key features of our cover include:

• 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.