Tommy has over 15 years experience within the insurance industry, and his primary focus is helping travellers find the right cover for their medical conditions.
Travelling is an exciting part of life – it allows us to explore new places, meet different people, and experience cultures that are vastly different from our own.
However, if a stroke, mini-stroke, or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) has left you or a member of your family with reduced mobility, booking a holiday abroad can definitely be a challenge, but it should be manageable. Yet, trying to navigate through the complexities of travel insurance can be an overwhelming task.
In this blog, you’ll learn how to find reliable travel insurance after a stroke so that your future holidays will go as smoothly as possible!
What to Consider When Looking for Travel Insurance After a Stroke or TIA
After a stroke or TIA, it’s essential to find a policy that offers the right medical coverage and suits your budget. Here are some key things to look out for:
Pre-existing condition cover: Ensure the policy includes cover for your stroke or TIA. Check what’s included and what’s excluded.
Emergency medical assistance: Confirm the insurer offers 24/7 emergency medical support in case you need help while abroad.
Mobility aids protection: If you use walking sticks, a wheelchair, or other aids, look for cover that protects you in case they are lost, stolen, or damaged.
Policy flexibility: It’s helpful to have a policy that allows changes if your travel plans or health situation shift.
Verified reviews: Read customer reviews to see how others with similar medical histories found the claims process and service.
Airports and airlines are also required under EU law to help passengers with reduced mobility. Don’t hesitate to request this help in advance to make your journey more comfortable.
With a little research and planning, it’s absolutely possible to find travel insurance that meets your unique needs.
Finding Affordable Travel Insurance
No matter the specifics of your medical history or the policies you choose, having travel insurance after a stroke or TIA is crucial in protecting your financial and physical well-being for any adventure.
Thankfully, Medical Travel Compared makes it easy to find travel insurance to cover pre-existing medical conditions, such as stroke, mini-stroke or TIA. We can help you compare travel insurance to cover your stroke quickly and easily.
You simply need to declare to us that you have had a stroke and answer a short series of multiple-choice questions to be presented with a selection of travel insurance quotes from our panel of specialist providers. It will only take a few minutes, and you won't need a doctor's certificate to get travel insurance cover for your stroke.
READ MORE: Telling Us About Your Medical Conditions
What Happens If I Don’t Declare My Stroke?
Not declaring your stroke when applying for travel insurance can have serious consequences. If you make a claim and haven’t disclosed your condition, your policy could be invalidated. That means:
- You may be left to pay for medical treatment out of pocket.
- Emergency repatriation may not be covered.
- Travel disruptions related to your health might not be reimbursed.
Always be open and honest about your medical history to make sure your policy remains valid.
Top Tips for Travelling if You've Had a Stroke
Dr Sarah Jarvis is the Clinical Director of the Patient Platform, an active medical writer, broadcaster, and the resident doctor for BBC Radio 2.
Having had a stroke or TIA (sometimes called a 'mini stroke') doesn't automatically mean you can't go on holiday. But depending on how long ago your stroke was, and what symptoms you've been left with, you will need to take a few extra precautions to make sure your trip goes smoothly. Check out my Top Tips for travelling if you have had a stroke.
Tips for Finding the Right Travel Insurance After a Stroke
When searching for travel insurance after experiencing a stroke, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure you get the best coverage for your needs. Here are some tips that might help.
Be Honest About Your Medical History
Always disclose your medical history accurately when applying for travel insurance. Failing to mention your stroke or any related conditions could void your policy and leave you without coverage when you need it most.
READ MORE: What Do I Need to Declare on My Travel Insurance
Compare Policies from Specialist Providers
Not all insurance providers are equipped to manage pre-existing conditions, like a stroke. Using a comparison site that collaborates with specialist providers can help you find insurers that understand your medical needs and offer tailored coverage.
Understand What the Policy Covers
Look into the specifics of what your policy includes. Key aspects to review are coverage for medical emergencies related to your stroke, trip cancellations due to health issues, and repatriation costs if you need to return home unexpectedly.
READ MORE: Travel Insurance Policy Types and Benefits
Look Out for Exclusions
Carefully read through any exclusions in the policy. These could include specific treatments, activities, or conditions that aren't covered. If you're unsure, reach out to the provider for clarification.
READ MORE: Travel Insurance Exclusions
Plan and Start Early
Don't leave travel insurance to the last minute. Securing a policy early gives you time to compare options, address any questions, and ensure you're fully covered well in advance of your trip.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can travel with greater peace of mind, knowing you’re protected by a policy suited to your specific needs. Having the right travel insurance not only safeguards you financially but also allows you to enjoy your holiday stress-free.
READ MORE: When to Buy Travel Insurance
Travel Tips for Stroke Survivors
Travelling after a stroke can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Stroke survivors may face unique challenges when travelling, so it’s essential to take extra precautions and make the necessary preparations. Here are some important tips to help you plan ahead and travel confidently.
Reduce Travel Time - Choose Direct Flights When Possible
Opting for direct flights minimises layovers and reduces the total time spent travelling, making the journey more convenient and less stressful, particularly for those with health concerns or mobility issues.
Request Airport Assistance in Advance
Contact the airline ahead of time to arrange for airport assistance, such as wheelchair services or priority boarding. This can make navigating the airport smoother and more comfortable, especially if you have specific mobility needs.
Obtain a Doctor's Note
A detailed doctor’s note listing your prescribed medications and their purposes can help avoid delays or complications at customs. This is particularly important for medications that are controlled substances or not labelled in the local language. You may also require a fit-to-fly certificate, your doctor can help with that, too.
READ MORE: Fit-to-Fly Certificates
Medication in Hand Luggage
Always pack your medication in your carry-on bag to ensure its easily accessible during the flight and won’t be lost in checked luggage. Keep them in their original packaging to avoid confusion.
READ MORE: Travelling with Medication
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the flight to prevent dehydration and try to stretch or walk around periodically to improve circulation and lower the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), especially on long-haul flights.
READ MORE: Why Do We Wear Flight Socks?
For more helpful travel tips, read our guide to Mastering Long-Haul Flights.
Travel with Confidence After a Stroke
A stroke doesn’t have to hold you back from exploring the world — it just means taking a few extra steps to plan ahead and protect your health. By understanding your medical needs, comparing specialist travel insurance providers, and disclosing your condition honestly, you can find a policy that offers the protection and support you deserve.
With the right travel insurance in place, you can focus on what truly matters: enjoying your time away, making new memories, and travelling with confidence. Whether it’s a relaxing beach holiday or an exciting city break, peace of mind starts with the right cover.
Ready to start planning your next adventure? Compare quotes with Medical Travel Compared and find travel insurance that’s designed with you in mind.