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Can I get travel insurance if I have back problems?
To get cover, you’ll need to add your back condition to your travel insurance, along with any other pre-existing conditions you have. Getting travel insurance that covers back problems protects you for sudden flare-ups of your back problems and emergency treatment.
Back problems we may cover include:
Chronic back pain.
Breaks or fractures.
Sciatica.
Scoliosis or curved spine.
Osteoarthritis.
Slipped disc.
Having the right travel insurance means you can focus on enjoying your trip. And if you need urgent medical assistance for your back pain? We’re here 24/7 to find you appropriate care and cover the cost of emergency treatment whilst away.
Why get travel insurance for back problems with Staysure?
We’re experts in medical travel insurance, including for back problems.
We’re by your side day or night while you’re abroad, with specialist medical advisors available 24/7.
Enjoy your trip knowing you’re covered if you need medical treatment.
How Staysure travel insurance for back problems works in three easy steps
To get cover, you’ll need to declare your back problems and any other pre-existing conditions to us when getting a quote for travel insurance. Our simple screening makes it easy to tell us about your trip and health.
1. Tell us about your trip
We’ll need a few quick details to get started:
If you need cover for one trip or multiple trips.
Who the insurance is for.
Where you’re going and how long for.
2. Let us know about your back problems
Our simple medical screening helps us understand you better and the level of care you could need abroad.
Some of the things we’ll ask include:
Your condition in the last 5 years.
Any daily pain relief you take.
Any planned or past treatments from the last 12 months.
3. Get your quote
If you complete the screening and we can cover you, your tailored quote will be available to view online, and emailed to you. It includes travel insurance tailored to cover your condition(s).
Explore and choose from three levels of cover to suit your needs (as below).
Choose optional add-ons to tailor your quote to your trip, including winter sports or cruise plus benefits.
What does travel insurance for back problems cover?
When back pain strikes, you need fast access to the right care. We’re here 24/7 to guide you to a specialist who understands your condition, whether that is emergency treatment or help managing sudden unexpected discomfort.
You’ll be in safe hands whilst away. Our medical advisors will help you find suitable local treatment and cover emergency medical expenses.
When it comes to back problems, your priority is to stay mobile and pain-free. But if you lose your medicines abroad, it can be tricky to track down replacements. With our Comprehensive and Signature policies, we offer Personal Assistance Services for situations just like this. We’ll treat it as a matter of urgency and help find locally available replacements. Please note replacement costs are not an included expense.
If your health means you have to cut your trip short, we will handle all the details to get you home safely. With 24/7 access to our medical team, we’ll find you the right care and arrange the transport, with your safe return as a priority.
How much does travel insurance cost with back problems?
Having a back problem shouldn’t always mean paying the highest premiums for travel insurance.
We tailor the cost of your policy to your individual circumstances and travel plans, and the care you could need on your trip.
You can find out how much your policy costs in minutes using our straightforward medical screening when you get a quote.
Proud to be a part of BIBA's medical directory
For people who have trouble finding travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions, the British Insurance Brokers' Association (BIBA) has a directory of specialist insurers, like us!
To find out more, or if on the odd occasion we are unable to provide the cover you need, contact BIBA on 0370 950 1790. You can also search BIBA's medical directory online.
Flexible cover add-ons to suit you
Tailor your insurance to your trip with optional add-ons. Everything you need, covered under one policy.
Breaking out of routine activity can be great when you have a chronic pain condition.
“Yoga in sunny Greece or a gentle swim on a Mediterranean cruise – a trip is a great way to stay active with a welcome change in scenery. Taking the right precautions and getting travel insurance can help you feel confident taking those trips.”
Other conditions we cover at Staysure
We’re experts in travel insurance for pre-existing health conditions. Just let us know your conditions when you fill out your quote, or contact us to amend an existing policy.
Getting travel insurance makes sure you’ll have help if you need it. Here are some other things to consider on your travels.
Pre-travel checklist for travelling with back problems
Talk to your GP or physio team to make sure you’re fit to travel and for guidance on booking a trip suitable for you and your needs.
Refresh yourself on your up-to-date flare up plan.
Consider avoiding direct flights – longer layovers can give you the chance to stretch and take walks to reduce pain.
Pack enough anti-inflammatory painkillers, such as ibuprofen, for your entire trip with extras in case of delays.
Find out the generic name of any medicines you’re using so you can buy them while you’re away if you need to.
If you need special assistance like getting round the airport or carrying heavy luggage, call your airline or travel agent to arrange that in advance.
If you’re travelling in Europe, get a GHIC – remember, this does not replace travel insurance.
If you’re travelling with any controlled medication, such as opioids, you may need a signed letter from your doctor. Some doctors charge for this service, which isn’t covered by travel insurance. Check the rules with the embassy of the country you’re going to. If you’re unsure if you’re taking a controlled medicine, ask your pharmacist.
If you’ve got a back problem, choose pain-free travel insurance.
“We know that back problems can be unpredictable, which is why reliable travel insurance matters all the more. We specialise in covering pre-existing medical conditions for travel insurance, including a wide range of back problems. Just make your conditions known to us when getting a quote to find out if we can help.”
Tips for travelling when you have back problems
Here are some things you can do to soothe the aches and pains that come with travelling with back problems:
Book an aisle seat so you can get up and walk during your flight
Perform simple stretches and exercises at your seat to increase blood flow and avoid stiffness, such as buttock clenches and shoulder shrugs
Put hand luggage under your feet so your knees and hips are level
Do flexibility exercises like chin tucks – avoid neck pillows
Ask for pillows or blankets to place at the small of your back
Keep your painkillers on you and within reach in case you need them
Stay hydrated – dehydration can make pain and inflammation worse
Hot/cold packs for pain relief and soothing inflammation
After your journey, take the time to walk and stretch. It’ll get your circulation going again and work out any stiffness.
We’ve put together a little list of some travel favourites that can provide extra back support.
Reusable hot/cold packs
Inflatable lumbar pillow support
Backpack with back and shoulder support
Suitcase that you can push instead of pull
Lightweight, breathable walking shoes with a well-cushioned heel for joint support
If your pain is particularly severe or you’ve recently had surgery, speak to your doctor or physio team about specific support you might need.
A trip is a great way to get some steps in. But, if you’ve got back and neck pain, you might be worried about agitating your symptoms.
Before and after heading out, take some time to perform some gentle stretches to warm up and cool down
If your accommodation has a pool, take a break from exploring and have a gentle swim
Use a backpack – avoid single strap or crossbody bags
Listen to your body – take a break when you need it and don’t push yourself just because you’re on a trip
Always speak to your GP or physio team about your physical ability before taking part in something new. They’ll be able to tell you what things you should avoid.
Hopefully you won’t have to worry about symptoms showing up when you’re on your trip. But, pain can be unpredictable so it’s a good idea to be prepared.
If you feel like you’re having a flare-up, immediately stop what you’re doing.
Some people find painkillers and hot/cold packs extremely helpful during a flare-up. Others find gentle stretches is best for them.
It’s best to speak to your doctor or physio team for an up-to-date flare-up plan and refresh yourself on it in advance. It might also help to share this information with any travel companion.
Common questions for travelling with back problems
If you’ve had medication, symptoms, tests, appointments or treatment for any back problems in the last two years, including sciatica, then you need to declare it for travel insurance.
If you have sciatica or any other back problem like a slipped disk or fractures, let us know when you’re getting a quote. If we don’t know, we won’t be able to cover you if you need to make a claim.
Get a quote to find out if we can cover your back condition.
Plenty of people with back problems can and do enjoy travelling.
Your condition doesn’t have to hold you back. But it may mean taking extra steps to plan so you’re able to enjoy your trip properly, including getting medical travel insurance.
Your usual routine may not be suitable for travelling. But it’s important to stretch regularly to soothe inflammation and pain.
Standing and seated trunk rotations – cross your arms across your chest like an X and slowly rotate your body to the side
Standing side bends – keep your body straight then slowly lower your body to the side while sliding your hand down your leg
High knees – stand up straight and slowly raise one knee 90 degrees (or as high as you can manage) then slowly lower it
Always consider your own condition and needs. It’s best to talk to your GP or physio team about suitable stretches so you don’t agitate your back.
Consider your needs when you’re booking accommodation. For example, if you find a hot soak to relax your muscles after a long day helpful, you might want to get an ensuite with a bathtub.
Some things you might want to keep in mind as you book:
A room on the ground floor or by a lift
Accessible for your needs – wide hallways for a wheelchair, or assistive bathrooms
An included microwave or kettle, and fridge for your hot/cold packs
Easy to get to and close to local places like restaurants and shops
If you’re unsure, call the hotel before you book. They can assist you in finding a room that’s right for you.
In an emergency, contact the local emergency services first, and then call our 24-hour emergency helpline. Our team will help arrange your care, find the most appropriate place for treatment and follow up care.
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.
If you have a non-urgent medical concern, such as sickness, headaches, or mild pain, contact our helpline first for advice on where to go for assistance.
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 back problems, you’ll want to look out for what’s covered and what’s not.
The right travel insurance for back problems should:
Agree to cover your back problem and any other pre-existing condition you have
Cover medical expenses, including necessary emergency travel home
Have a high medical cover limit
Help 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.
Stay in control of your account with My Staysure
You can make changes to your policy, online and in your own time with My Staysure.
It’s quick and easy to make changes to your policy online. If you need to make simple changes such as updating traveller details or renewing a policy that’s details are staying the same, just visit your My Staysure account.
By your side in an emergency abroad, day or night
