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Can I get travel insurance if I have Parkinson’s disease?
We know there are extra things to consider when taking a trip with Parkinson’s disease, like getting around, accessibility challenges, and the worry of needing to access urgent medical care. Getting great travel insurance shouldn’t have to be another challenge on that list.
Because we’re specialists in medical travel insurance, we can often cover pre-existing conditions, including Parkinson’s. Just let us know about any medical conditions you have when you get a quote.
You deserve the right support to embrace life after developing Parkinson’s, including trips you want to take. And if something doesn’t go to plan while you’re abroad, our experienced emergency medical advisors are available 24/7 to help you get the right care and cover the costs of emergency treatment.
Why get travel insurance for Parkinson’s disease with Staysure?
We’re specialists in covering medical conditions, including Parkinson’s.
We’re the UK’s number one travel insurance provider, based on Trustpilot reviews.
We’re by your side day or night, with specialist medical advisors available 24/7 abroad during your trip.
Get cover for unlimited emergency medical expenses with no excess on our Signature policy.
How cover for Parkinson’s disease from Staysure works, in three easy steps
To get cover, you’ll need to declare your Parkinson’s and any other pre-existing conditions when getting a quote for travel insurance. We make it easy to tailor a quote to your trip and health.
1. Tell us about your trip
To get started, we’ll need to know:
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 Parkinson’s disease
Our simple medical screening helps us understand you better.
Some things we’ll ask about include:
if you need assistance in your daily life eg eating or washing
if you use any mobility aids
if you’ve had any unplanned hospital admissions in the last 12 months
Don’t forget to let us know about any other pre-existing medical conditions.
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 Parkinson’s disease travel insurance cover?
We understand the worry of having an emergency abroad, especially one related to Parkinson’s, like falls or medication wearing off.
We’re here 24/7 if you need to access a doctor or emergency care.
Unlimited emergency medical expenses with our Comprehensive and Signature policies.
If something goes wrong while you’re abroad, we’ll help get you in safe hands day or night, and cover the expense of getting you there.
When you’re travelling with Parkinson’s, 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 unexpectedly 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
How much does travel insurance cost with Parkinson’s?
Living with Parkinson’s shouldn’t always mean paying the highest premiums. After all, we understand that your needs with Parkinson’s can change over time, and everyone is at a different stage. That’s why our offer is tailored to your individual circumstances and travel plans.
You can find out how much your tailored policy costs in minutes with our simple medical screening when you get a quote.
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.
Traveling with Parkinson’s can be a wonderful way to create meaningful memories with loved ones, even as the condition continues.
“In the UK, around 153,000 people live with Parkinson’s and many of them continue to enjoy travel. Focus on pacing yourself, sticking to your medication schedule, and planning for accessibility needs, and travel can still be an enriching part of life with Parkinson’s.
”
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The UK's most trusted travel insurance
Customers give us twice as many 5-star reviews as any other travel insurance company. That’s over 340,000 glowing reviews and counting.
Always good value for money
Always good value for money. Trustworthy & dependable.
My first choice for travel insurance.
Tracy,
Always helpful simple instructions…
Always helpful simple instructions makes life a little easier.
AnnieElliott,
Easy last minute insurance.
Last minute circumstances dictated we needed insurance for the next day. Staysure offered an easy seamless experience at a sensible price despite our pre existing medical conditions.
The Robinsons,
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.
Enjoying travel with Parkinson’s can mean adapting to your changing condition, and it can feel like there’s a lot to prepare. We’ve pulled together a helpful checklist of things to consider.
Pre-travel checklist for travelling with Parkinson’s
Before you book a trip, make sure you take the time to speak to your GP about:
whether you’re fit to travel, especially if you’re on a new treatment, or have a deep brain stimulation (DBS) device
any suitable vaccinations you may need
storing and transporting your medication
if you need compression socks to reduce the risk of blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Leave plenty of time to prepare enough medication for your whole trip with extras in case of delays or lost baggage.
Prepare copies of prescriptions to take through security, especially if it’s a liquid, requires a syringe needle or is an autoinjector pen.
Check the regulations on travelling with medication in the country you’re going to.
If you have supportive therapies, such as physiotherapy or speech therapy, talk with your team to discuss whether to pause your therapy or adjust your programme to do while on your trip.
Arrange any special assistance you may need with your travel provider in advance, such as a wheelchair for getting around, support with luggage, or help boarding and deboarding.
Make sure you let your travel provider know if you’re planning to travel with mobility aids such as wheelchairs or canes.
Consider a Parkinson’s ID card, Parkinson’s identity bracelet, or sunflower lanyard to wear as you travel.
If you’re travelling in Europe, get a GHIC – remember, this doesn’t replace travel insurance.
You may prefer booking a trip with a specialist travel agency. They’ll be able to support you in booking transport, accommodation, and activities that are suited to you and your needs. Read our guide to travelling with Parkinson’s for more helpful information.
Certain medicine and equipment may need a signed doctor’s letter, so check with the embassy of the country you're going to. Some doctors may charge for this service. This isn't covered by travel insurance. Learn more about travelling with medication abroad.
Beth Craig
Travel insurance expert
The right travel insurance can support you to navigate the challenges of travelling with Parkinson’s
“From making sure you can access emergency medical care in case of a fall or severe symptoms, to covering medication mishaps or delays, having cover gives you peace of mind. It’s not just about financial protection – it’s about giving yourself the freedom to enjoy your trip, knowing you’re prepared for the unexpected.
”
Tips for travelling with Parkinson’s
You may be used to putting your medication into a weekly pill organiser or pill timer. But when you’re travelling, it’s a good idea to keep all of your medication in its original packaging, with copies of your prescription for security.
Bring your medicines in your hand luggage, even if they’re liquids. Remember to bring a copy of your prescription for security. It can also help to split medicines between bags – that way you’ll still have some if any luggage gets lost.
If you’re travelling to a new time zone, talk to your nurse about changing your schedule to match the local time. It might be helpful to set reminders on your phone too.
Double check storage instructions for your medication with your pharmacist. You might want to book a room with a fridge or get an insulated travel bag if it needs to be kept cool.
If you’re using skin patches, take care not to expose it to heat on your trip. Speak to your nurse for advice on application, especially if you’re going somewhere hot.
Whatever your mode of transport, here are some things we’ve put together to help your journey be as comfortable as possible.
Drink small volumes of water and eat healthy snacks throughout your journey to keep your blood pressure up.
Organise special assistance with your travel provider in advance for support with luggage, checking in, and getting around.
Consider a small, well-supported backpack for your hand luggage instead of a small suitcase – that way your hands are free for balance.
If you wear pads, consider loose-fitting, comfortable clothes and close-fitting underwear for comfort en route.
If your medication makes you drowsy, a neck pillow and lumbar support can help you sleep comfortably on the way.
Book an aisle seat by the toilets so you can easily go to the bathroom and move your body.
If you’re on the road, sit in the passenger seat so you can recline your seat, and plan plenty of rest stops along the way.
If you’ve got a deep brain stimulation (DBS) device and flying, let the airline and staff know at security – the scanner shouldn’t affect your device but you can ask to be searched by hand if you’d prefer.
Travelling can be tiring, especially for people with Parkinson’s. So, take the time to get plenty of rest before and after your trip to reduce symptoms of fatigue.
Planning in advance can greatly reduce feelings of stress and fatigue when you’re travelling. Booking tables, tickets, and transport before heading out can give you one less thing to think about when you’re out and about.
Consider your condition when organising activities and plan plenty of breaks throughout the day. Taking the time to rest and have a small bite to eat and drink can help stop your blood pressure dropping suddenly.
It’s also a good idea to avoid peak hours. Research busy hours at tourist destinations so you can beat the crowd.
Starting and ending your day with gentle stretches, meditation, and deep breathing can greatly improve your mood, and ease muscle stiffness.
Changes in bathroom habits can feel difficult to manage when you’re away from home. You’re not alone, and here’s some steps you can take.
Consider transport that will have toilets on them like trains, and book seats close to them.
Research where the nearest public toilets are in the area you’re travelling to.
Handheld travel urinals can be helpful when you’re out and there aren’t toilets close by.
New foods can upset your stomach – carry antidiarrheals and laxatives that are okay to take with your Parkinson’s medicine.
Consider using incontinence products like pads and pull-up pants on your trip for peace of mind.
Have a bag of spares – extra clothes, pads, and toilet paper in case you’re caught short
Getting plenty of rest is essential when you’re on a trip. So be sure to book accommodation that is suitable for your support needs.
If you have Parkinson’s, you might want to consider somewhere with:
a spacious room with minimal furnishings, making it easier to move about
an ensuite bathroom with a standing shower fitted with handrails
step-free access to public areas
wide corridors and elevators if you’re travelling with a wheelchair
easy access to local amenities and attractions to cut down on travel time but away from noisy main streets
a room close to reception, a lift, or an emergency exit for peace of mind during your stay
You might find it helpful to call places in advance to let them know about your condition. Staff can support you in finding a suitable room depending on your needs.
Do I need to declare Parkinson’s for travel insurance?
Many people with Parkinson’s are able to fly. There are certain things you can do to help your journey be as comfortable as possible.
Let the airline know about your condition in advance so cabin crew are aware and can give you any support you need during the flight.
Arrange any assistance you’ll need with your airline in advance such as support with check-in and getting around the airport.
Stay hydrated and prepare healthy snacks to prevent your blood pressure from lowering too much.
Book an aisle seat by the toilets so you can go when you need to.
Do gentle exercise and stretches at your seat to work out any aches and stiffness, and reduce your risk of blood clots.
If you’ve got a deep brain stimulation device, let the airline and staff at airport security know in advance. The scanners shouldn’t affect your device. But if you’re worried, you can ask to be searched by hand instead.
As long as your doctor gives you the go ahead, you can travel under their advice.
Thoroughly planning in advance and getting travel insurance can help you travel more securely so you can enjoy the activities you’ve planned.
There is no set diet that people with Parkinson’s have to follow. However, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet is usually helpful.
Treating yourself to a sweet treat or the local cuisine should be fine. Just make sure you’re eating a varied plate with plenty of fibre, calcium, and vitamin D while you’re away.
Low blood pressure is a common side effect of Parkinson’s medication. So consider bringing healthy snacks with you when you’re out and about and avoiding large, carbohydrate-heavy meals.
You should always drink plenty of fluids, and moderate alcohol intake. Please be aware that we won’t be able to cover you for medical expenses or incidents related to excessive alcohol intake.
If you’re worried about your diet affecting your Parkinson’s on your trip, talk to your GP before you go for advice tailored to you and your needs.
In an emergency, always contact local services first. 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
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 Parkinson’s, you’ll want to look out for what’s covered and what’s not.
The right travel insurance for Parkinson’s should:
cover your Parkinson’s 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.
Up to unlimited emergency medical expenses
