If you’re planning to travel during your pregnancy, you might have some questions about travel insurance. Here’s what you need to know about pregnancy travel insurance.
Will You Need Specialist Travel Insurance?
Often, pregnancy isn’t considered to be a pre-existing medical condition, so you may not need any specialist travel insurance. You also shouldn’t be subjected to any specialist fees or increased costs because of your pregnancy.
There may be some differences in the amount of cover, timeframes, and exclusions between policies, so it’s important to read your policy documents carefully. If you have annual travel insurance, read your policy and make sure you know exactly what is covered. You may be able to talk to your provider to upgrade the policy to give you better cover.
Single-trip travel insurance may be more beneficial for you during your travel when you’re pregnant. It may give you better cover in case of medical emergencies, so consider shopping around for the right policy for you.
In either case, you should inform your provider if you have pregnancy related medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or pregnancy diabetes.
Travel Insurance Cover During Pregnancy
The level of cover that travel insurance provides can vary dramatically between providers, so always check the terms and cover before purchasing any insurance policy. For travel during pregnancy, pay attention to the maximum you can claim if you have to cancel or leave before your return date. Check the cover if you have to return home due to issues with your pregnancy. Calculate your dates, and how many weeks pregnant you will be during travel and check if the policy would cover an early labour and delivery.
A comprehensive policy should cover things like:
- Cancellation due to your pregnancy
- Early return home due to your pregnancy
- Early birth
- Medical care for labour
- Emergency C-section
- Additional expenses as a result of birth
Your policy should also cover things like:
- Lost luggage
- Damaged luggage
- Cancellation cover
- Delayed flights
- Missed flights.
- Additional expenses due to issues with flights
- Covid-19 cover
Covid-19 Cover
While it may feel like things have mostly gone back to normal since the pandemic, Covid-19 cover is still something that you should consider. Before you book any trip abroad, check the latest travel advice via the government website. Check entry requirements for the country you intend to visit and check the NHS guidance on coronavirus and pregnancy.
Pregnancy Travel Insurance And GHIC Card
It’s strongly recommended that you hold a valid travel insurance policy and a health insurance card. If you’re travelling within Europe, you need a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). It will give you access to healthcare in Europe at a reduced cost or sometimes for free. You can apply for a GHIC on the NHS website.
Some insurers insist that you must have a GHIC so make sure that you apply in plenty of time.
What Pregnancy Documents Should Be Taken With You?
You should make sure to take the following documents with you when you’re travelling:
- Travel insurance policy and emergency helpline number.
- Pregnancy notes
- Medications
- GHIC/EHIC
- Documents to confirm your due date, and that you are safe to fly.
Keep all receipts, and paperwork as these will be needed in the event of a claim.
What Else To Think About When Travelling During Pregnancy
There are a few things to keep in mind if you need to travel during your pregnancy:
- Medical Advice – Speak to your doctor or midwife before travelling to make sure that your healthcare providers are comfortable with your travel. If you travel against medical advice, your policy could be invalid.
- Vaccinations – Be aware that some travel destinations will require vaccinations or medications before and during your travel. Some of these won’t be suitable during pregnancy, so make sure to talk to your doctor to find alternatives.
- Airlines – Before you book your flight, check your airline’s policy on pregnant travellers. Most airlines will have a restriction on travelling during the later stages of pregnancy.
- Food And Drink – Check for advice on what food and drinks are safe to consume in the country you intend to travel to.
- Activities – There may be some activities that you should avoid during your pregnancy. Things like surfing, water-skiing, scuba diving, hot air balloons, and saunas should all be avoided.
Will Travel Insurance Cover Up To Full Term?
Some providers may give cover for up to 40 weeks gestation, but others will not. Check your policy carefully to find out how many weeks gestation you will be covered for.
What Happens If You Go Into Labour Abroad?
Proper travel insurance could be invaluable if you go into labour early while abroad. You may need a prolonged stay as some airlines won’t allow newborns to travel. You may need additional medical care, accommodation and alternative travel to return home.
Be aware though, most travel insurance will not cover a planned birth abroad.
Is It Easy To Get Travel Insurance While Pregnant?
It shouldn’t be any more difficult to get travel insurance during pregnancy than it is to get travel insurance when you aren’t pregnant. You may want to talk to the provider to be sure that you have an appropriate level of cover, or if they offer any extras. This should be true for both a single trip policy and for an annual multi-trip policy.
