travel insurance for stroke survivors

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Going on holiday after stroke

Holidays are an important part of life, and this guide can help you with holiday planning if you have a health condition or disability after a stroke.

On this page:

Can I still go on holiday after a stroke? Types of holiday Flying after a stroke Do I need travel insurance? Travelling with medication Resources

Can I still go on holiday after a stroke?

If you're thinking about getting away, there are various holiday options to choose from with different levels of support.

If a stroke has left you with mobility problems, you may prefer to book with a specialist travel agency that can arrange care and equipment for you. Some holiday packages also include an organised programme of activities, such as sports and outdoor activities or visits to local attractions, while others only offer accommodation so that you can do your own thing.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) and holidays

We know that holidays and travel may be affected by changing social distancing rules for some time. You need to check on the latest rules about your journey and destination before travelling.

If you are more vulnerable due to a health condition, you will need to follow the advice you are given to reduce your risk of infection.

Air travel after a stroke

People often ask whether it is safe to fly after a stroke. There is no hard and fast answer to this. Most airlines will not carry someone within days of a stroke, but the rules vary between airlines and countries.

In the weeks after a stroke you are at the highest risk of another stroke. So the most important thing is to get individual advice from your hospital or GP about the likely risks of travelling.

In the UK, the Civil Aviation Authority suggests waiting 10 days after a stroke before a flight. But if your condition is stable you may be able to fly after three days.

Each airline will have its own rules on flying with medical conditions, so you need to check with the airline before flying. You may be asked to provide a doctor's note or certificate.

Immediately after a stroke, you may need to attend check-ups and have medical treatment. The full effects of a stroke may take time to emerge. You might need help with these effects, and you might need to attend therapy sessions. So it's really important to get medical advice about your own situation before you travel.

If you have a stroke caused by a clot (ischaemic stroke) you will be given medication to reduce the risk of blood clots. This needs to be taken regularly to be effective. So you need to plan carefully before travelling to make sure you have the right medications with you, and that you take them at the right times.

Carry medication in both your hold bag and hand baggage, in case any of your luggage gets lost.

If you have a stroke while on holiday, you might need to take a flight to get back home. If you have medical insurance, your insurance company should give you help and advice on medical treatment and getting back home. You can also contact the local British Consulate, which can offer advice and practical support.

Travel and blood circulation

During a flight, the air pressure inside an aeroplane cabin is lower than it is on the ground. So when you fly, you have a bit less oxygen in your blood than normal. This may affect certain people with a heart problem or breathing condition, so ask your GP if this applies to you.

On a long flight, you are likely to be inactive for a period of time which makes you more likely to develop a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A DVT is a blood clot in a vein, often in the leg.

The best way to reduce the risk of a DVT on any long journey is to drink plenty of water, and stay active. Simple exercises like flexing your ankles or walking around will improve your blood flow. Do this regularly during the journey.

If you have had a DVT in the past, and you don't take anti-coagulation medication, ask your GP for advice before a long journey.

Some travellers wear compression stockings during a flight. However, you should not wear these if you have peripheral artery disease (PAD). This condition reduces blood flow in your legs, so wearing the stockings can reduce blood flow too much. Ask your GP or pharmacist for individual advice.

Getting around the airport

All European airports should have facilities to help you move through the airport and get on and off the plane if you have reduced mobility. Airline crew are not able to provide personal care, and the airline may insist that you travel with a companion if you are unable to eat, understand safety briefings or reach emergency exits without help.

Most airlines will carry two items of mobility equipment for free. This should be in addition to your baggage allowance. If you have a wheelchair, it will be stored in the hold. You should tell your airline, travel agent or tour operator before you travel if you're taking a battery-powered wheelchair or mobility aid.

Contact the airline to discuss your requirements, and any additional help you will need on the flight, at least 48 hours in advance.

Do I need travel insurance?

It is important to have travel insurance, especially if you are going abroad.

Make sure you declare that you've had a stroke when arranging your insurance and check that you are fully covered. Many policies will exclude conditions that you had before you took out the policy (known as pre-existing medical conditions). This varies between policies, but it could mean that you would have to pay for any costs relating to these conditions. There are specialist travel insurers that provide cover for pre-existing conditions.

Specialist insurance from All Clear

The Stroke Association has a partnership with specialist medical travel insurer AllClear Travel, which provides comprehensive cover to stroke survivors. Find out more at our travel insurance page .

Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)

The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaces the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for most people. Despite the name, it allows you to receive state-provided healthcare only in European countries. Treatment is at the local cost, or sometimes for free. It will cover your treatment until you return to the UK. It also covers the treatment of pre-existing medical conditions.

It won't cover certain costs, including the cost of returning you to the UK, so you still need to get private travel insurance as well.

How to apply

Visit the Global Health Insurance Card page on Gov.uk for full details of eligibility and a link to the free application page. A GHIC is free of charge. If you are charged a fee while applying online, leave the site, go to the NHS GHIC page .

European emergency number: 112

Dial 112 from anywhere in the UK or Europe to be connected to local emergency services.

Travelling with medication

If you carry medication or medical equipment such as syringes in your hand luggage, you should bring documentation like a doctor's letter. You should also carry a copy of your prescription. As well as helping you avoid any problems at airline security and customs, this will be useful if you need medical help while you're away.

Make sure you take enough medication with you in case you are unexpectedly delayed. If you are travelling across time zones, ask your pharmacist for advice about timing your medication.

It may be possible to take oxygen cylinders on board a plane. You need to contact the airline about this before you book.

Liquid medication

Current rules on liquids in hand luggage say that you can only take containers of up to 100ml. However, you can carry liquid medication of more than 100ml in hand luggage, as long as you have a doctors letter. Airport staff may need to open the containers to screen the liquids at the security point. For more information about this, contact the airline.

Check before you fly

Always contact the airline or travel company if you have any questions about health conditions or support for disabled travellers. There may be restrictions on taking medications into some countries or specific health advice on travel in a particular area.

Check beforehand with the embassy of the country you're travelling to, or check the government's foreign travel advice.

Resources available

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• Download our PDF and large print Word document Holidays and stroke.
• Order your printed copy from our shop.
• Request a braille copy by emailing [email protected].

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Travel Insurance for Strokes

Don’t let the fear of a stroke stop you from travelling. your travel insurance has you covered.

Travel can be a concerning prospect if you have had a stroke, and worrying about whether it will happen again is entirely normal. Strokes are a common medical issue for many people in the UK, with reports of a new case every five minutes . 

With this in mind, it’s crucial to have a Travel Insurance plan that specifically addresses your needs, especially if you have suffered a stroke in the past or have a medical condition associated with strokes. Our specialised stroke Travel Insurance includes the medical cover you need, designed to give you confidence and peace of mind while you explore the world, ensuring you are well-protected in case of any health emergencies related to a stroke or any other declared medical condition.

Travel Insurance for Stroke Survivors

Our specialist insurers have extensive experience assisting customers in their quest for Travel Insurance that can protect them in the event of a stroke or TIA (mini-stroke) while abroad. 

Don’t let the fear of a stroke or TIA stop you from enjoying your well-deserved trip! Getting stroke Travel Insurance that covers you for a stroke, TIA, or a declared medical condition that caused a past stroke, will help you prepare for a medical emergency while you’re on holiday.

Securing Stroke-Specific Travel Insurance: Finding the Right Policy

We aim to make finding Travel Insurance for a stroke or TIA easy by working with a range of insurers which specialise in covering pre-existing medical conditions , including post-stroke. Get a quote online, or if you prefer to speak with someone, contact one of our Travel Insurance specialists, who can help you  find Travel Insurance for stroke victims over the phone. 

When responding to medical screening questions, try to be as honest and accurate as possible. Once we receive your response, we will be able to scan our market accurately, understand the type of Travel Insurance you need for your pre-existing medical condition, and try to assist you in finding stroke Travel Insurance.

Enjoy Your Holiday with Peace of Mind

Once you have Travel Insurance that covers you for a stroke or TIA, you’re all set to enjoy your holiday. Whether that be lounging at a pool, exploring jungles, or hitting the ski slopes!  Just make sure to select winter sports cover or activity pack B as an additional premium if you plan any exciting activities that aren’t included as standard.

Pre-Travel Tips for Stroke Survivors

There are other precautions you can take before travelling as a stroke survivor. Alongside making sure you have stroke Travel Insurance that covers you, we recommend that you speak with your doctor if you are unsure whether you are fit to travel. If you need a specific type of medication, make sure it is easily accessible while travelling. Additionally, getting a note from your GP stating that you need that medication to get through security with no unnecessary delays is a good idea.

Travel Insurance for Stroke FAQs

Frequently asked questions about Travel Insurance for Stroke.

Can I get Travel Insurance after I have had a stroke?

Travel Insurance policies are available for hundreds of pre-existing medical conditions, including strokes or TIA. Finding Travel Insurance that covers your specific situation is essential. Our Travel Insurance specialists are experienced in helping customers who have suffered from a stroke or TIA find stroke Travel Insurance that suits them.

Do I need to declare my stroke on my Travel Insurance?

If you do not declare a stroke or TIA with your insurance company, you could risk your Travel Insurance becoming void if a stroke-related medical issue were to occur while you are away. If you do not declare your stroke, you would not be covered if you had a stroke on holiday, but also anything related, such as a heart attack. To be fully prepared, make sure your Travel Insurance covers stroke or TIA.

Is a stroke a pre-existing condition?

A pre-existing medical condition is any illness or injury you had before taking out your Travel Insurance. If you have suffered from a stroke or TIA, this qualifies as a pre-existing medical condition.

Is Travel Insurance expensive after a stroke?

The average cost of Travel Insurance after a stroke or TIA may increase due to the potentially higher risk of needing to make a claim while travelling. However, it will also depend on your age, other medical history, where you’re going and for how long.

It also depends on how long ago your stroke was. As for full strokes, we will ask you if it was more or less than 3 months ago and how many strokes you have had in the last 6 months, which may affect the price.

Securing stroke Travel Insurance is vital as if something were to happen and you did not have adequate cover, you could end up paying out of pocket. We’ll compare prices from several insurers and offer bronze, silver and gold options on most policies. Secure your peace of mind.

Can you fly after a TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack) or Stroke?

Yes, you can generally fly after experiencing a TIA or stroke, but it’s essential to consult with your GP before making travel plans. The timing of your flight post-stroke or TIA will depend on your overall health, the severity of the episode, and any underlying medical conditions that might have contributed to the TIA. Your doctor will assess your situation and may recommend waiting a period before flying to ensure stability and manage any risks. You must declare these conditions as a pre-existing medical condition when securing Travel Insurance.

Do I need to inform my Travel Insurance company after a TIA?

Yes, you must inform your Travel Insurance company if you’ve had a TIA. Declaring a TIA is crucial because it’s considered a pre-existing medical condition. Not disclosing this information could invalidate your policy, leaving you without cover for any stroke-related medical issues while travelling or if you need to cancel your trip due to your condition. If you have already purchased your Travel Insurance and have suffered a TIA since, have spoken to your doctor and are still planning on travelling, you must update your policy. Informing your insurer allows them to provide a policy that accurately reflects your medical history and ensures you have the appropriate cover, should something happen.

Undiagnosed Medical Condition?

Do you have an undiagnosed medical condition or are you on a waiting list for treatment?

We may still be able to help you find Travel Insurance.

Travel Insurance for Strokes – Your Cover

• Cancellation/ curtailment up to £12,500 (£30,000 on referral)
• Missed departure up to £1,500 per person
• Baggage up to £3,000 per person
• Personal Liability up to £2 million per person
• Zero excess policies available

Medical Cover for Strokes

• Emergency medical expenses and repatriation up to £15 million
• 24/7 emergency medical assistance
• Cover for all types of Autoimmune Conditions

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Travel insurance after a stroke, please note this article was created to promote our affiliate partnership with medical travel compared.

We regularly get asked about travel insurance. As stroke survivors ourselves we know how difficult it can be to find affordable insurance that covers you for the right things should you fall ill whilst on holiday. 

We answer some of the common questions about travel insurance after a stroke below.  

Can I get travel insurance after a stroke? Life after a stroke can feel very different to how it did before, but that doesn’t have to stop you doing what you love. While recovery is unique for every stroke survivor, the opportunity to get away from it all on a holiday or trip to another country can provide some much-needed relaxation and enjoyment (just make sure you have the all clear from your doctor before you travel).

The good news? You can get travel insurance that’s designed specifically for people who have had strokes. It’s just a case of finding the right cover for you, which is where Medical Travel Compared can help.

How to find the right cover We know that strokes come on suddenly and often without warning. So when you have a history of strokes or mini-strokes (TIA), it’s important you know that if one should happen while you’re away, you can get the medical help and support you need.

Without the right travel insurance policy in place, you could find yourself financially out of pocket due to expensive medical bills – not something you want to be worrying about in the lead up to – or during – your getaway.

Medical Travel Compared can save you time and hassle searching for travel insurance on lots of different sites, by helping you compare relevant policies from over 40 leading insurers – all in one place. All they’ll need are a few details about your medical history and past strokes, so they can find the right cover options for you.

What will be covered? This will vary depending on the insurance provider, but you can usually expect to be covered for:

• Emergency medical expenses
• Repatriation
• Cancellation and curtailment
• Loss of medicine (including if it’s stolen)

How much will it cost? The cost of travel insurance for stroke survivors will vary depending on your medical history and the severity of any long-lasting symptoms you have. Generally speaking, if it’s been three months since your last stroke and your condition is stable, your premiums should be relatively low.

Find Out More

For every travel insurance policy bought via this page, Different Strokes will receive a donation.   This will not affect the price you pay, so benefits stroke survivors through accessing appropriate travel insurance while earning important funds for Different Strokes.

Join Our Webinar: Returning to Work After a Stroke

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Travelling After a Stroke: Guidelines for a Safe Journey

Heart and Stroke Canada reports over 400,000 Canadians living with stroke effects. Stroke patients describe varied challenges based on age, stroke severity, affected brain area, pre-stroke fitness, and other factors. At ClearCompare.ca, we acknowledge diverse patient needs, providing valuable guidance for post-stroke travel. This article delivers crucial information, precautions, and insights for safe travel after a stroke.

Understanding Stroke

A stroke occurs when blood flow to a brain section is blocked, causing cell death. Two main stroke types exist: Ischemic Stroke, where a blood clot stops brain blood flow, and Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), a precursor to severe strokes involving a smaller clot briefly blocking an artery. The other type is a hemorrhagic stroke, resulting from a ruptured blood vessel causing brain bleeding.

In both cases, urgent medical assistance is crucial to halt brain damage promptly. Recognizing signs quickly reduces brain damage and enhances recovery chances.

Can I Travel After a Stroke?

Post-stroke recovery challenges prompt many patients to question travel feasibility. Encouragingly, up to 80% of Canadian stroke survivors can expect survival, with many resuming pre-stroke life, including travel. Consultation with a physician for personalized advice and precautions based on individual medical conditions and recovery progress is crucial.

Flying After a Stroke

Airlines typically don’t demand disclosure of previous strokes. However, flying poses unique challenges for survivors, such as cabin pressure changes and limited in-flight healthcare access. Hence, physician clearance is essential before flight booking. Cleared patients, regaining mobility, can generally travel by plane again.

Precautions While Flying

If cleared for travel, take common-sense precautions before flying.

Ensure adequate rest and stay hydrated during the flight, minimizing stress.

Move around during the flight to reduce Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) risk. Reduced mobility from stroke heightens DVT risk, necessitating a seat with extra legroom and frequent leg movement.

Timing of Travel

A substantial second-stroke risk persists one month post the first stroke. Thus, medical clearance is vital before booking a flight. Physicians usually advise completing post-stroke therapies like physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language therapy before considering travel.

Consider Healthcare Options

While post-stroke travel is attractive, ensure top-tier healthcare is available at your destination for potential complications. As time passes post-stroke, complication risks diminish. However, during the initial years, opt for destinations with excellent healthcare facilities.

Is there any Travel Insurance that will cover my stroke risks?

Most travel insurance providers in Canada require a stability period of several months to a year. This means that if any of your medication dosage has changed, or if your medical status has changed, this can render you ineligible for travel insurance for that, or any related condition. For example, if you are put on a blood pressure medication after your stroke, you may be ineligible for coverage for anything related to your blood pressure (including a subsequent stroke) if there are any changes to your blood pressure medication during the stability period. Even if your dosage is going down because you are getting better.

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Where should i travel after i recover from my stroke.

While travel is an excellent option for stroke survivors, ensure that your travel destination offers quality healthcare facilities in case of any complications. As time passes between your stroke and travel date, the chances of complications decrease. However, for the first few years after a stroke, consider travelling to destinations with reliable healthcare.

As mentioned, the severity of strokes varies dramatically from patient to patient. Therefore it is important to discuss your limitations with your family and physician. If you require assistive devices such as a walker or a wheelchair, it is important to research the accessibility of your destination. Many developing countries or remote locations, for example, are not as accessible as an affluent city.

If you are experiencing any communication challenges due to apraxia or aphasia from your stroke, it may be best to travel to countries where they speak English, so that a language barrier is not added to the already existing challenges.

It may be difficult to fill your prescriptions while abroad so ensure that you have more than enough medication to take during your trip, plus some extra in the event of a delay. You should carry your medication with you on your flight just in case your luggage is delayed. You may require a doctor’s note should any of your medications be in liquid form or require needles to administer the medication.

Travelling after a stroke is possible with proper medical clearance, precautions, and planning. With the right guidance, stroke survivors can enjoy safe and fulfilling journeys. ClearCompare.ca is committed to providing comprehensive travel insurance coverage for stroke survivors, ensuring they can explore the world with confidence. Consult with your physician and explore our travel insurance options for a worry-free travel experience. Travel with peace of mind, knowing that your journey is protected by ClearCompare.ca.

Author: Lawrence Ferron

With over twenty-five years of experience in financial services, Lawrence Ferron had held senior executive positions at leading Canadian financial institutions. Prior to founding Clear Compare insurance, he was Vice President and Head of Product & Marketing for Manulife’s direct-to-consumer Insurance division.

View all posts by Lawrence Ferron

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Stroke Travel Insurance

Having a stroke or transient ischaemic attack (mini-stroke) can be life-changing. However, with rehabilitation, many people can get back to leading a normal and independent life, which involves travelling abroad for holidays or work. However, travelling abroad can come with its own problems for stroke patents, particularly when trying to find affordable travel insurance with stroke cover.

At Insurance with we recognise the beneficial effects a holiday can have on the rehabilitation of stroke patients and to this end have created a specific stroke travel insurance policy at affordable premiums. We offer cover for people who have had all types of strokes, such as:

• Haemorrhagic
• TIA (mini-stroke)
• Childhood stroke

As we have said, a holiday after having a stoke can be very beneficial, particularly as it gets you away from the hospital routine, which is very familiar to anyone who has a medical condition , a holiday can be seen as the first step to regaining your old life back. Therefore it’s important to make sure that you have the correct holiday insurance policy in place, so you can relax and enjoy your much needed holiday and if something does go wrong the cover is there to take care of everything for you.

Insurance with travel insurance policy for stroke patients gives you the cover you need at an affordable premium for that well-deserved trip. Each case is individually assessed and underwritten through our bespoke medical screening system; therefore our policies ensure award-winning cover, with the following range of specialised policy benefits looking after you:

• £10 million emergency medical and repatriation cover
• Personal possessions cover
• Cover for specialist mobility and disability equipment
• Cover for lost or damaged prescription medication
• Over 100 sports and activities covered as standard
• 24-hour emergency medical medical helpline, available 365 days a year

Our trained medical screening advisors are on hand to offer confidential friendly advice on our range of policies, they will also offer a specific risk assessment of your condition and a tailor-made policy at an affordable premium. Insurance with policies are available online , where you can complete your own medical screening or if you prefer, you can contact us to speak to a member of our Customer Service team.

Policy Benefits

There are a series of benefits which come with taking out one of our policies. Some of the most helpful for you include:

• £10 million cover for medical emergencies and repatriation
• Emergency medical assistance helpline 24 hours a day, every day of the year
• Bespoke medical screening
• Personalised 1-2-1 medical screening for more complicated or serious cases
• Discounts for couples, families and single parent families
• Specialist winter sports policies available
• Cruise and Golf extensions available
• UK, European and Worldwide policies available
• 100+ sports and activities can be covered as standard
• 14 day cooling off period (providing you haven’t travelled or claimed on the policy)

Why choose Insurancewith?

Our common-sense approach to medical travel cover has been recognised by industry peers and customers alike . We want to make it easier for more people to travel. Many of those we’ve helped talk about how they’d almost given up with the idea of getting away. We understand that getting away and knowing you’re protected should something unexpected occur has a real impact.

Stroke Information

If you’ve recently had a stroke, or whether you experienced one years ago, getting away on holiday might be just the thing you need to help finish your recovery process. Going away with friends or family can create some great memories and experiences, and having a stroke shouldn’t prevent you from going on your trip or visiting dream destinations.

However, having had a stroke it’s important to travel with an adequate medical travel insurance policy which offers cover for your condition. Some travel insurance companies are reluctant to provide cover for customers with a medical history of stroke because they think they pose a bigger risk and are more likely to fall ill whilst away. Should you fall ill or have to cut short your trip due to either illness related to your condition, or receive treatment whilst you’re away, you could be faced with expensive medical bills. With travel insurance, these costs are taken care of.

Insurance with considers cover to suit any pre-existing medical condition, including cover for customers who have had a stroke. Our award-winning medical screening programme allows us to ask questions relevant to your condition instead of just asking you to tick boxes, this process enables us to  offer you a fair and affordable quote.

All of our policies include access to our appointed 24-hour emergency assistance team, available 365 days a year, assuring you that should you have to call in the event of a medical emergency, you’ll be guided and advised by people who have vast experience in this field.

* $ Insurancewith has been rated 4.8 out of 5 (Excellent) based on over 7000 customer reviews on Trustpilot. Based on  Trustpilot data  2023 

2 Based on quote data from 2023. Correct as of 12/09/2023

Travel Insurance

Does anyone know a travel insurer specialising in people who have had a TIA or stroke?

Hi @PeterTS and welcome to the forum.

Travel insurance has come up before & you’ll fibd some recommendations at these links

Annual travel insurance

Travel insurance recommendations, please

As a starting point though I have used LV & RIAS. Stroke Association work with All Clear

And Different Stroke use medical travel compared.

Hope this helps.

Hi and welcome to this forum. I have always used a comparison website when travelling abroad. That way you can get the cover suitable for you, at a price you can afford. I would advise that you declare your medical history when looking for cover.

Good luck, hope that’s helpful.

Regards Sue

Thank you both. The quotes I’ve had to date - after a single event TIA in April from a variety of sources all seem very high!

I’m not sure how much you’ve been quoted but for me and hubby going to Europe last year it cost over £200 single trip. I have a few medical conditions and so does hubby so that will increase costs. Maybe it’s because it isn’t a year since your event but not sure how it works. Definitely try a comparison site but make sure it covers your medical conditions.

Thank you. I have been quoted £600 for a week’s river cruise in France and £800 for a river cruise in Portugal & Spain. Non-river cruise isn’t much different. I have other health issues but a weeks’ cover before my TIA was £250.

Hi @PeterTS - that does seem very high but like others, I’m not sure how it’s worked out. Like @Mrs5K said, maybe it’s because your TIA was recent? My stroke was five years ago and my last annual policy cost just over £400, including the US but excluding cruises.

I always use a comparison site and swap provider if I can get a better deal. As already said, it’s crucial to disclose all medical conditions.

Best wishes.

@PeterTS that does seem high. You’re not awaiting any medical tests or procedures are you? That can affect cover. Maybe it’s because it’s cruising and the cost of getting someone off a ship? Definitely shop around. Another site to try is payingtoomuch.com

I’ve heard of people using staysure, insure and go as well.

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Travelling after a stroke

Are you a stroke survivor? Find out more about flying after a stroke and where to find Stroke Travel Insurance that you can trust.

Travelling after a stroke – tips and tricks

A stroke can impact many aspects of your life. This includes when you’re able to holiday abroad again – especially by plane. But we believe that everyone has the right to travel, so we’re here to share some tips and tricks so you can continue to go abroad after your stroke.

The NHS and the Stroke Association advise stroke survivors to not fly for two weeks.In some cases, you may have to avoid flying for three months. In the case of a ‘mini-stroke’ or Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA), you may be able to fly after 10 days as long as you have made a full recovery.

What preflight steps should you take?

When you have been given the go-ahead for flying, you will still want to minimise the risk of any unexpected issues.

Here are three steps to take before you fly:

Talk to your airline.

It’s important to notify the airline if you have special requirements. If your stroke has left you with reduced mobility, eyesight or speech, you may need assistance at the airport and on the plane. Tell your airline in advance. They’ll be able to arrange any equipment needed, such as a wheelchair, and they’ll be more understanding during any communication. You may also be asked by the airline to complete a Medical Information Form (MEDIF) before you fly.

Get Medical Travel Insurance.

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) say that a UK holidaymaker needs emergency medical treatment abroad every 3 minutes ! Yet when you’ve had a stroke, standard policies – like those that come packaged with some bank accounts – might exclude cover for pre-existing medical conditions . To avoid unexpected medical bills while on holiday, take out specialist stroke Travel Insurance.

Remember your medication.

Be sure you have enough of your prescribed medicines before you head on holiday. Plus, make sure your medicines are in your hand luggage – not your hold baggage! It’s often worth taking a little extra too, in case of delays travelling home.

What should you look out for once you’re in the air?

The main risk of flying after a stroke is developing blood clots , particularly Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). This can cause a Pulmonary Embolism (PE), which is when a clot breaks free and travels to the lungs. Blood clots can occur when the blood flow is slowed or stopped. Therefore, sitting still for long periods of time during your flight can increase your risk.

How do you minimise DVT risk when flying?

When you get the ok to fly, consider these steps to minimise your risk of having blood clots…

• Flight socks: also known as ‘Compression stockings’, these reduce the risk of DVT by gently applying pressure to the leg and therefore increasing blood flow.
• Have you got the right seat? Reserve an aisle seat or pay extra for one with more leg room. That will allow you to stretch your legs during the flight and help reduce your risk of having a DVT.
• Posture : assuming you have booked a seat with extra space, sit up straight and stretch your legs out. Do not cross them.
• Are you wearing the right clothes? Wear loose-fitting items to ensure blood flow is not restricted.
• Exercise: walk around regularly, at least once an hour, or stand for a few minutes. Do stretching exercises, even while seated. Flex your calf muscles, stretch thigh muscles and curl and stretch your toes.
• Fluids: drink lots of water and avoid alcohol, as the latter can dehydrate and cause your blood to thicken.

Need help finding Stroke Travel Insurance?

As a specialist Medical Travel Insurance provider, AllClear has helped cover stroke survivors since 2000. Our award-winning customer service will help you have peace of mind on every trip you take.

SWIPE TO COMPARE POLICIES

* If you buy a policy which includes cancellation cover. All these figures are per person and per trip

Simple 3 step quote process

1. call us or click a quote button on our site, 2. complete our simple medical screening process, 3. get your quotes.

Written by: Lydia Crispin | Travel Insurance Expert Last Updated: 1 August 2024

† Based on Trustpilot reviews of all companies in the Travel Insurance Company category that have over 70,000 reviews as of January 2024. AllClear Gold Plus achieved a Which? Best Buy.

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Free Spirit

Medical Travel Insurance With No Age Limits

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Stroke travel insurance

Why is it important to cover your ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke.

If you’ve had a stroke in the past, obtaining suitable travel insurance to cover your medical condition for a holiday abroad can be difficult. Some insurers may decline to cover you or charge you extra to take out a policy, even if you have made a full recovery.

Here at Free Spirit we pride ourselves on our customer service and we can give you the same excellent comprehensive cover as we give to all of our other customers, better still we’ll do it at a price that’s fair.

As long as your doctor or consultant has agreed you are fit to travel, there is no reason why you should not enjoy a holiday. Whether you have had a stroke recently or many years ago, provided you’re not awaiting surgery or further investigations, we will aim to offer a quotation for a specialist travel insurance policy to cover not just your stroke but any other associated medical conditions.

What makes us different?

We’ve put a lot of thought into our benefits and here are some that make us stand out from other insurers.

• No upper age on Single Trip or Annual Multi-Trip
• Cancellation or curtailment/loss of holiday – start at £2,500 per person
• Medical emergency helpline – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
• Emergency Medical & Associated Expenses – start at £5 million per person
• Specific cover – for loss or damage to medical aids and prescribed medications

Consequences of not covering your Ischaemic or Haemorrhagic stroke

Travelling abroad after suffering a stroke can be a worry especially in the event of a medical emergency. Failing to ensure all of your medical conditions could leave you open to paying out for expensive medical treatment and hospital accommodation costs especially in places such as Spain and the USA and this can run into thousands of pounds.

Getting an insurance quote to cover your stroke

You can get a quote for your stroke travel insurance through our easy to use secure online medical screening system and it couldn’t be easier! You will need to declare all of your medical conditions and we will ask you some questions about them, for example:

• How many strokes have you had in total?
• How long ago was your last stroke? How many strokes have you had in the last six months?
• Are you awaiting surgery for this condition or for any scans to be performed?
• Do you currently use any mobility aids?
• Have you had any transient ischaemic attacks (mini-strokes) since your last stroke?
• Do you suffer from an irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation)?
• Are you on medication to thin the blood (not including aspirin) which requires regular blood tests?
• Have you ever been a smoker?

If you would prefer to call us, our customer services team are on 02392 419 080.  If you have any questions not covered by our frequently asked questions page or you cannot find your medical condition within our online screening list, we’re on hand to help.

Tips for travelling after a stroke

If you decide to travel after recovering from a stroke there are a number of things that you will need to consider:

• Discuss your travel plans with your doctor or hospital consultant to allow extra time for additional preparations.
• Take extra supplies of your stroke medication in the event it is lost or damaged in transit. Always try and keep your medication in your hand baggage.
• Ensure your travel insurance covers not only your medical condition but your medication as well and offers 24-hour medical emergency assistance

Peace of mind included

If you are not completely satisfied with the stroke cover provided you may return your policy documents to us within 14 days of receipt, provided that you have not already travelled and are not making or intend to make a claim. We offer a full 14 day money back guarantee.

For full details of our stroke travel insurance cover, please read our Free Spirit policy wording or view details of the stroke policy limits .

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I use Free Spirit for both my business and personal travel and have always found its service to be of a very high standard.

Can we say a huge thank you to your team for the very efficient and prompt way in which you handled our claim, it all went hassle free due to your hel…

There are times when you feel you have had such good service and attention that you just have to put pen to paper in recognition of the care, help and…

I was very pleased with the service, the lady was most helpful and very pleasant and I felt very at ease with all the questions. I have now passed on …

My Mum was diagnosed with cancer in February of this year, and recently it has been diagnosed as terminal. My parents wanted one last holiday abroad t…

Credit where it is due, in this day and age where positive comments are rarely expressed, Eileen really is an excellent advertisement for your company…

I have left two testimonials already but feel it important and necessary to add a third. I have a pre-existing medical condition, which other insuranc…

My husband and I would like to add our appreciation of your very efficient and speedy responses to our communication with you. We are impressed with y…

Many thanks, and can I just pass on that the customer service operator was an absolute pleasure to deal with today, I found the process extremely prof…

The website is very easy to navigate and to enter details of previous medical conditions, and the premiums seem reasonable. The documents always arriv…

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Stroke Travel Insurance

Compare cover from as little as £19.76*.

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.

Can you get travel insurance if you have had a stroke or TIA?

Having a stroke should not prevent you from travelling abroad. Find out more about getting travel insurance after a stroke.

And, since  there are more than 1.3 million stroke survivors in the UK , it’s a good job that there are plenty of specialist medical travel insurance providers who can cover people who have had a stroke or TIA (mini-stroke) in the past. 

If you’ve had a stroke in the past, stroke travel insurance cover provides you peace of mind - knowing that should you become unwell or face a medical emergency on holiday, you’ll be taken care of. With multiple types of cover including single-trip and annual multi-trip insurance , you can tailor your insurance to suit you.

Specialist Medical Cover

We only work with providers who specialise in covering pre-existing conditions.

No discounts. No pressure. We’ll always show you the best prices from providers.

Declaring your condition

Even if you had a stroke a long time ago - it’s still important to declare it with us when comparing travel insurance. 

Once you do, it’s likely that you might be asked a few questions, such as: 

• How many strokes have you had?
• How long ago was your last stroke? 
• Are you awaiting surgery for this condition or for any scans?
• Do you currently use any mobility aids? 
• Have you had any transient ischaemic attacks (TIA) since your last stroke? 

The answers you provide help insurance providers to determine the more specific nature of your condition, while getting a clearer insight into your medical background. 

This helps them to offer you the appropriate insurance for you after a stroke   when you start comparing quotes.

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.

• If you've had a stroke in the past few months, check with your doctor whether they think it's safe for you to fly. You certainly shouldn't fly the first two to three weeks after a stroke – this is the time your problems are likely to be most severe and you're most likely to develop other issues related to your stroke. However, if your stroke was caused by a bleed into the brain (rather than the more common clot on the brain) you may need to wait longer.
• If you have mobility problems as a result of your stroke, consider booking with a travel agency that provides a range of activities tailored to your needs. They should also be able to offer options that have step-free access and are wheelchair accessible.
• It's very common to tire more easily if you've had a stroke. Take into account the length of travel involved in getting to your destination and consider booking trips that don't involve early morning or late-night transfers.
• If you've had a stroke, you're at higher risk of a clot on the leg (a deep vein thrombosis or DVT) that could travel to your lungs. Reduce the risk by doing simple exercises to keep your legs moving if you can (most airlines have examples in their in-flight magazines), avoiding alcohol and drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids. Speak to your doctor about whether elastic compression stockings might help.

For more tips check out my full guide here .

What does stroke travel insurance typically cover?

You can expect this type of cover to include the same things that a standard travel insurance policy would include - but you can also claim for stroke-related medical issues (whereas you otherwise wouldn’t be able to). 

This will normally include:  

• Lost, Stolen or Damaged Personal Belongings: Including any medication you need to treat your condition.  
• Emergency Medical Expenses and Repatriation: Specifically including any stroke-related medical expenses incurred by emergency medical treatment.
• Cancellation and Curtailment: If you suddenly decide to cancel your trip or end up cutting it short.
• Travel Delay: This won’t always be included, check with your provider.
• Personal Liability: If you cause accidental damage to another person or someone else’s property - cover is provided.

You can compare this type of cover across a range of leading providers, click below to get started.

Optional extras

Also, feel free to add any optional extras that you need - such as gadget cover, cruise cover or winter sports cover.  

This may increase your premium, but it’s definitely something to consider when shopping around, especially if you have different types of holidays planned.

• Gadget cover
• Cruise cover
• Winter sports cover

Get cheap quotes from specialist stroke travel insurance providers

Comparing quotes will make it much easier to find the right travel insurance policy to cover your medical conditions with pre-existing medical travel insurance.

We work with plenty of specialist providers, and once you tell us about your trip and medical condition(s) you’ll be able to compare competitive quotes, all in one place - saving you money and precious holiday-planning time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

With us you can compare specialist stroke travel insurance across a range of providers. Get a quote today and start comparing competitive cover before you embark on your trip.

Premiums vary depending on the nature of your condition - but it’s still possible to compare competitive quotes with us and find a suitable policy for a reasonable cost. Get a quote .

Although not as serious as a stroke, if you have had TIA, you should absolutely purchase travel insurance that covers this particular condition. If you don’t, then any problems caused or lasting symptoms from the TIA whilst you’re on holiday may not be covered by your policy – and you could be left out of pocket should you have to seek medical help on your trip.  Get a quote .

Single Trip insurance is for one-off, individual trips and will cover your specified travel dates. This is usually up to 45 days; however, some insurance providers can cover up to 94 days. If you’re not a frequent traveller, single trip cover is a great option and will likely be cheaper than an annual multi-trip cover .

If you travel 2 or more times a year, annual trip cover may very well save you money. The maximum duration of any trip will always be specified and will vary by provider. But don't worry, when you get a quote, we'll ask you what your maximum trip length is and only show you quotes that match!

A pre-existing condition is a diagnosed medical condition that existed before taking out a policy. We'll ask a series of questions about the medical history for you and any travellers on your quote. If you answer yes to any of these, you will need to tell us about the traveller's conditions. This could be a condition that a traveller has now or has had in the past. If you are not sure what conditions you need to declare, we have online support available to help you 24/7!

* Price is based on 1 traveller aged 61, who has declared Stroke and is travelling to France for 7 nights. The price is correct as of July 2024. Prices may vary according to your individual requirements.

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Don't just take our word for it...

If we're unable to help you find cover for a pre-existing medical condition , the Money Helper Directory has listings of companies that may be able to assist you. Further details can be found on their  website.

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Travel insurance after a stroke or TIA

We understand that insuring a medical condition can be a bit frustrating, and with  around 100,000 people suffering from strokes every year in the UK , we want to make it as easy as possible for you to get  travel insurance . So, if you or someone you care for has been affected by a stroke and are concerned about whether travel insurance will be able to cover you and your condition we may be able to help you, even if you’ve had trouble getting covered in the past.

A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), also called a mini-stroke, can affect your holiday plans as much as a stroke. Airlines have different policies on how long you should wait to fly after having a TIA or stroke, but most recommend waiting at least 10 days before getting on a plane for a TIA and 21 days if you’ve had a stroke.

Air travel is known to increase the chance of a stroke or pulmonary embolism. If you have an increased chance of suffering a stroke due to high blood pressure , remember to keep moving your legs regularly and wear flight socks on your journey.

One of the things that makes us stand out from the crowd is that  we will consider all medical conditions , including strokes and TIAs! Simply  contact us  or get a quote online to go through our simple medical screening process.

What does stroke travel insurance cover?

If you have had a stroke or TIA, we’ll do our best to offer a policy that’s suited to your needs. Like all our policies, our travel insurance that covers you in the event of a stroke will include some great features as standard, including:

• Holiday cancellation cover
• Belongings and baggage cover
• Passport, money and documents cover
• Delayed departure cover
• Personal accident cover
• Accommodation cover
• Cover for over 50 sports and activities
• Medical and hospital expenses cover (including expenses related to any medical conditions you have declared and have been covered by us)

For more information on what’s covered with travel insurance for strokes and other medical conditions, have a read of our  policy documents . If you have any other  pre-existing medical conditions  don’t worry, we will still consider you!

And if you still can’t find what you’re looking for, why not  get in touch  with us; we’ll try and help.

Please note: ‘TIA travel insurance’ is a general term for one of our standard travel insurance policies including cover for other health conditions, which is subject to medical screening and may require an additional premium. We don’t offer specialist cover for this specific condition.

*Discount excludes any premium generated to cover medical conditions or optional extras & is automatically applied. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Discount tiers of 5% for premiums between £0-49, 10% for £50-249, & 20% for £250+ apply. Offer ends at 23:59 on 30/09/24. T&Cs apply.

• Unlimited emergency medical expenses available on Black level policies.
• InsureandGo’s Gold achieved a Which? Best Buy.