Flying with a Concussion

What You Need to Know Before You Travel

If you’ve recently suffered a concussion and are wondering, can you fly with concussion symptoms or is it safe to fly after a head injury, you’re not alone. Flying with a concussion can be safe—but only if you meet certain conditions and are cleared by your doctor. Planning travel while recovering from a head injury can feel overwhelming—but with the right support and precautions in place, it’s often still possible to travel safely. In this guide, we’ll cover what to consider before flying after a concussion, along with tips to help make your journey smoother and safer.

Can You Fly on a Plane with a Concussion?

In most cases, you can fly with a concussion—but only once a doctor has confirmed that it’s safe for you to do so.

Flying too soon after a head injury can increase the risk of complications. Changes in cabin pressure, altitude, and physical stress during travel can potentially make your symptoms worse, especially if serious issues like a brain bleed or skull fracture are present.

You should only fly with a concussion if the following conditions are met:

1. A few days have passed since your injury.
2. A doctor has cleared you to travel.
3. Your symptoms are improving—you’re not experiencing worsening headaches, dizziness, or nausea.
4. Imaging tests have ruled out any brain bleed.
5. No skull fracture has been diagnosed.

If you’re unsure, always err on the side of caution and speak to a medical professional first. Air travel after concussion should never be undertaken without expert guidance.

Tips for Travelling with a Concussion

Once you’re cleared to fly, the next step is to plan your journey carefully. These tips will help reduce the risk of symptom flare-ups and make flying with a concussion more manageable.

1. Plan Ahead

Planning in advance can significantly ease the pressure on your brain and body during travel:

• If possible, travel with a companion who can assist if you begin to feel unwell.
• Travelling solo? Airports and airlines offer support for passengers with disabilities, including help with check-in, security, and boarding.
• Early boarding can reduce confusion and give you time to settle in calmly.

2. Start with Short-Haul Flights

If it’s your first time travelling with a concussion, aim for a flight under three hours.

• Shorter flights mean less exposure to changes in pressure and cabin environment.
• Long-haul flights (over 6 hours) should only be considered if absolutely necessary and approved by your doctor.

3. Stay Fed and Hydrated

A recovering brain needs plenty of energy:

• Bring your own snacks—think fruit, nuts, and protein bars.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol before and during the flight as they can worsen dehydration and headaches.
• Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your journey.

4. Manage Sensory Overload

After a brain injury, sensory sensitivity is common. Airports and planes can be overwhelming:

• Use dark sunglasses or an eye mask to block out harsh lighting.
• Wear earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones with soothing music.
• Choose a window seat where you can lean against the wall and reduce distractions.

5. Prioritise Sleep

Sleep is vital for brain recovery—and jet lag doesn’t help:

• Try to nap during the flight to rest your brain.
• If travelling across time zones, adjust your sleep schedule a few days ahead by 30-minute increments.
• Bring a neck pillow, eye mask, and comfortable clothing to help you relax.

Don’t Overlook Travel Insurance

If your concussion is part of a broader medical history, making sure you have the right travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions is essential. It adds peace of mind in case your symptoms return, or unexpected issues arise while you’re away.

Travel with Confidence with Able2Travel

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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.