Tips for travelling with a medical condition

Travel is one of life’s greatest joys and privileges. It also comes with some of life’s greatest admin, especially if you have a medical condition. But travelling with a medical condition doesn’t need to be overwhelming – it just means a little more prep and looking ahead.

While we can’t promise to get rid of the admin and paperwork altogether, this simple guide will help you get from A to B as comfortably and safely as possible.

Consider your destination

Very hot or cold temperatures and humid weather might make conditions, like asthma and certain autoimmune diseases, flare up. If this is a concern for you, you can make things easier on yourself with thoughtful packing. Consider checking forecasts for the season you’re looking at and pack anything that can help you manage any flare ups.

Check public transport links or hire a car

Public transport is more reliable in some countries than others. Hire a car or book a transfer if the options don’t suit you.

Check hand-luggage allowances with your airline

If you’re flying, check your airline’s policy on travelling with your medication. Many let you bring extra hand luggage for free, including liquid medicine or mobility aids, but looking ahead of time will help checking in feel more relaxed.

Get a note from your doctor

If you’re bringing extra hand luggage or equipment, a note from your GP that explains what your medication is for can help airport security, if needed.

Get the right travel insurance

At Co-op Travel Insurance, we don’t think anything should stop you from going on your dream holiday, which is why our travel insurance covers pre-existing conditions, and many conditions which others won’t insure at all. Pre-existing medical conditions need to be declared and accepted when taking out the policy, or they will be excluded from cover.

Travelling in the EU and using a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)? This will allow you to access medically necessary healthcare provided by the state within the EU, Switzerland and some other countries. However, this is not an alternative to travel insurance. A GHIC or EHIC does not cover things like private healthcare costs or the cost if you needed to be repatriated (brought home) from your holiday due to illness or injury.

Research GPs and pharmacies near your hotel

Ask your hotel or host for information about nearby hospitals and pharmacies, in case you need them. Make sure you and everyone you’re travelling with know the local emergency number too.

Bring extra medical supplies

Even if you’re the most organised traveller in the world, sometimes things just don’t go as planned. Pack more medicine and other equipment than you think you’ll need in case there’s a flight delay or cancellation.

Carry your medication in your hand luggage

If possible, carry your medication with you so it’s less likely to be lost. If you’re bringing multiple bags, split your medicines between them. That way, if one bag goes missing or is delayed, you will still have some medicines available. Need more information on travelling with medicines? Fitfortravel has the detail you need.

Keep your medical info with you

Make a note of your prescriptions, current medicine and information about your condition to keep with you. Alternatively, you can get a medical ID bracelet, necklace or card. This will help if people need information quickly in an emergency.

Enjoy the journey!

Flights can feel worrying, especially if you have a medical condition. Help stay relaxed, rested and hydrated by packing a refillable water bottle, travel pillow, compression socks and in-flight entertainment like a novel or puzzle book. Remember to keep moving on the plane too – wiggle your toes, stretch your arms and legs, or go for a quick walk up the aisle.