Gastric reflux travel insurance

When you’re travelling with gastric reflux, you want to know you’ve got everything you need. But it can be tricky to track down medicines abroad.  

If you ever find yourself short while you're away, we’re here to help. We can assist you in locating a nearby pharmacy that stocks your medication, so you’re not left searching in an unfamiliar place. 

Just so you know, the cost of replacing medication isn’t something we cover – but we’ll still do what we can to make the process easier. 

If your health means you need to cancel or cut your trip short, we’ll get you home safely without the extra expense. That includes travel to the airport, any medical assistance or accommodation you need en route, and cancellation costs up to the agreed amount of your cover level.  

We’ll help with:   

• coordinating care with your medical team back home   

• accommodation if you need to extend your stay   

• taking care of your transport arrangements, including travel to your local hospital if needed   

• rebooking flights and transfers   

Trying new foods and flavours are an exciting part of travelling. Having gastric reflux shouldn’t be a barrier to that. But it’s a good idea to take some precautions so you can get the most out of the local food. 

• Research the translation for your triggers in the local language in advance so you know what to avoid. 

• Have a card with your triggers translated into the local language so you can show restaurant staff. 

• Look up restaurant menus in advance – make sure there’s something you can eat before you go.  

• Always keep your antacids or other medications you take to handle your gastric reflux on you in case you need it. 

• Treat yourself but be mindful of portion sizes – share meals with friends or ask to take leftovers with you. 

• Take a walk after your meal – this can help with digestion, keep you upright, and prevent you from putting pressure on your stomach. 

Flying when you have gastric reflux doesn’t have to be an uncomfortable time. Consider these tips to help your journey go as smoothly as possible. 

• Book an aisle seat so you can easily go to the toilet and stretch.  

• Wear loose-fitting clothes, including undergarments, so there is less pressure on your stomach. 

• Avoid eating a large meal before your flight as the change in pressure in the air cabin can make feelings of bloating and gas worse. 

• Prepare snacks and foods that you know you can eat in case the in-flight meal includes your food triggers. 

• Avoid reclining your seat, especially after eating – instead use a back pillow and neck pillow for support and comfort. 

• Stay hydrated – drink small amounts throughout your flight rather than large volumes at once. 

Everybody is different but common triggers include citrus fruits, fatty foods, caffeine, and spice.  

If you need to avoid these, then it’s worth researching the local cuisine of the country you’re going to. 

You deserve to treat yourself while on your trip. But it’s best to limit the amount of alcohol you drink to avoid agitating your digestive system. 

Please note that we won’t be able to cover medical emergencies related to or caused by excessive drinking.  

In an emergency, always contact local services first before reaching out to our 24/7 helpline. 

Hopefully you won’t have to worry about a medical emergency like a stomach ulcer on your trip. But it’s always a good idea to know what to do in the unlikely event that it happens. 

A common sign of stomach ulcers is a burning sensation in your stomach that comes and goes. But it doesn’t happen to everyone. 

If you have other symptoms like dark, sticky stools, or have sudden, sharp pains in your stomach that get slowly get worse, contact our helpline first for advice on where to go for assistance. 

If you’re vomiting blood, contact the local emergency services first, and then call our 24-hour emergency helpline. Our team will help arrange your care and find the most appropriate place for treatment and follow-up care. 
  

Our helpline is open 24/7, 365 days a year

• Calling from outside the UK: +44 1403 288 414 

• Calling from USA or Canada: +1 844 780 0639 

• Calling from Mexico: +1 819 780 0639 

• Calling from the UK: 01403 288 414 

If you or someone on your policy is admitted to hospital or your outpatient treatment is likely to cost more than £350, contact us as soon as possible. Where you have a valid claim, and your medical expenses exceed £350 we will look to settle the bill directly with the medical provider where possible. 

 
For any non-urgent medical problems, like headaches or stomach bugs, contact our 24/7 helpline first for advice.  

As good as travel insurance is, some things can’t be covered.  

You’re not covered for: 

• travelling against your doctor’s advice 

• claims for pre-existing medical conditions you haven’t told us about  

• routine check-ups, planned treatment or non-emergency care 

• travel for medical procedures abroad  

• reimbursement for lost, damaged or stolen medicines or equipment 

• incidents related to alcohol or controlled substances 

• strike action that was common knowledge at the time of booking 

• choosing private treatment when suitable public facilities are available 

• choosing not to travel 
   

Discover more about what travel insurance covers. Always check your policy documents carefully to understand exactly what you’re covered for.  

When comparing travel insurance policies for gastric reflux, you’ll want to look out for what’s covered and what’s not.  

The right travel insurance for gastric reflux should: 
 

• agree to cover your gastric reflux and any other pre-existing conditions you have  

• cover medical expenses, including necessary emergency travel home 

• have a high medical cover limit 

• help you replace lost, stolen or damaged medications 

• cover you for cancellations or interruptions during your trip 

• include 24/7 emergency assistance services while abroad 

Learn more about what’s covered under our medical insurance for pre-existing medical conditions, or get a quote.