Travel insurance after a stroke

On the hunt for holiday insurance after a stroke? Don't worry—you've got options. While a stroke is considered a pre-existing medical condition, it doesn't mean you can't travel. With the right insurance, you can enjoy your holiday worry-free.

Below, we breakdown everything you need to know about travelling post-stroke— from information your insurer could need, to helpful tips to make your travels easier. Let's get you prepared for that well-deserved getaway!

Can I get travel insurance after a stroke?

Absolutely, you can get travel insurance after a stroke.

Planning a well-deserved break after recovering from a stroke can be the perfect way to recharge. And, with the right travel insurance, you'll have peace of mind that your condition is covered while you relax.

For example, strokes can happen without warning. If you need medical assistance during your trip, travel insurance can help take care of the costs. But, depending on your situation, you might need to find a specialist insurer to cater to more complex medical needs.

Here's some key things to keep in mind:

• A stroke is classed as a pre-existing medical condition. This means you'll need to declare your condition to your travel insurance during the quote stage
• Travel insurance including stroke cover means you'll be protected for issues that pop-up related to your condition. For example, treatment or even repatriation if needed
• Without the right travel insurance for your condition, you could be left to pay for medical costs yourself!

What information will I need to provide to get stroke travel insurance?

After you get a quote, you'll be prompted by your insurer to provide some personal information.

What you'll be asked tends to vary from insurer to insurer. But, you'll find it typically consists of the following:

• How many strokes have you had?
• How long ago was your last stroke?
• How many strokes have you had in the last 6 months?
• Are you awaiting surgery, scans or results?
• Do you use mobility aids?
• Have you had any mini-strokes since your last stroke?
• Do you suffer from an irregular heartbeat?
• Are you on medication to thin the blood?
• Do you smoke?

We get it—this might seem like a lot of information to give. But, remember, it's just so your insurer can make sure they're giving you the appropriate cover.

What’s covered with stroke travel insurance?

You can expect to be covered for everything a standard travel policy offers. So, this includes things like:

• Cancellation cover. If you need to cancel your trip or cut it short for an unexpected reason, like illness.
• Disruption. If you experience travel disruption for reasons outside of your control, like strikes.
• Lost or stolen luggage. If your luggage is lost, stolen or damaged. Some policies can include personal possessions, too, like your passport.
• Medical treatment. The cost of medical bills should you need treatment while you're away from home.

But remember, you may need a specialist policy depending on the severity of your condition.

This type of policy can offer tailored coverage, such as enhanced medical expenses and being returned home for treatment. It might also include coverage for ongoing treatment related to your condition. While this can often mean a higher premium than standard travel insurance, it can ensure you've got the necessary cover for safe travel. Spending a little more could be well worth it for the peace of mind it brings!

How soon can I fly after having a stroke?

According to The Stroke Association, in the weeks following a stroke there's a risk of you having another one. So, it's important to make sure your condition is stable before you jet off anywhere.

The Civil Aviation Authority recommends waiting 2 weeks before flying. But, airlines can have their own rules for passengers flying with medical conditions. So, double check before you book any flights. Depending on who you're flying with, you might be asked to provide a doctor's certificate stating you're fit to fly, too.

Travel insurance with more serious pre-existing medical conditions

Like we've mentioned, it's absolutely possible to get out there and see the world with a pre-existing condition. Besides a stroke, this can include conditions like:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Heart conditions

If your pre-existing condition is more serious, the insurers we work with might not be able to offer cover. But, that doesn't mean your travel plans have to come to a halt! It just means you might need to explore other options.

The good news is that the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) offers a helpful directory of insurers that can cover serious conditions. You can use it to find the cover you need if you can't get it through us.

Top tip: Need some more advice on the cover you need? That's alright. You can give MaPS a ring on: 0800 138 7777.

Do I need to tell my insurer even after suffering a mild stroke?

Yes, it's important to let your insurer know—even if your stroke was mild. Any stroke, no matter how minor, counts as a pre-existing medical condition.

Letting your insurer know ensures that they can offer the right coverage for your needs. This way, you'll have peace of mind knowing you're covered if anything unexpected happens.

Psst! It's better to be upfront—if you don't declare your condition, your insurer could refuse to cover you if you need to make a related claim. Undeclared pre-existing conditions can invalidate your policy altogether.

Tips for travelling after a stroke

Here's a few tips to help you have a smooth and stress-free adventure:

• Speak to your GP. Before you head off, it's always a good idea to have a check-in with your doctor. They can help answer any questions you might have and make sure you're fit for travel
• Familiarise yourself with healthcare facilities. Take a moment to look up local hospitals or clinics at your destination. It's a simple way to help you feel more comfortable, and could mean you're able to get to medical assistance quickly should you need it
• Arrange assistance ahead of time. If you'll need any help along the way, like at the airport, it's best to arrange it early. Most airlines ask to be notified at least 48 hours before travelling. So, sorting special assistance in advance can make everything smoother
• Bring all the medication you'll need. Make sure to bring along all your medication for the trip, plus a little more in case of delays. It's always better to be safe and fully prepared!
• Pack your medication in your carry-on and hold luggage. Consider splitting your medication between your carry-on bag and hold luggage. That way, if any of your luggage goes missing, you'll still have access to the medication you need. Phew!
• Make a note of your insurer's emergency medical number. Most insurers offer a 24/7 helpline for medical emergencies. So, you might find it helpful to keep a copy of it handy in case you need to call it. You should be able to find it in your policy wording.