Arthritis Travel Insurance

Arthritis is one of the many pre-existing medical conditions that, here at Direct Travel we are happy to cover, so that you can enjoy a relaxing and stress-free holiday. Stress and tension can aggravate arthritic symptoms so make sure you are fully covered with specialised cover from Direct Travel and enjoy your well-deserved break!

Arthritis can affect people of all ages, including children and at present this is thought to be around 10 million people in the UK. The most common type is osteoarthritis along with rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis affects pain and inflammation in the joints which can make movement and lifting difficult. However, with a little preparation and research taking that well-earned break shouldn’t be a problem!

Tips and advice for travelling with Arthritis

• Allow extra time to move around the airport so you are not left rushing at the last minute
• Arrange wheelchairs or pre-book motorised escorts through the airport. If you can, use suitcases with wheels which are much easier to move around
• During your flight make sure you can move around the plane safely or try exercises that you can do in your seat to reduce stiffness
• Share the load with your travelling companions, they can take care of your luggage, keep hold of your travel documents and share driving
• If possible pre-book an aisle seat so that you can stretch out safely and gently
• If you are travelling to Europe, then it is essential that you carry an EHIC – European Health Insurance Card. You can apply for a free card by following the link www.nhs.uk/ehic

Booking your arthritis travel insurance

By booking your travel insurance with Direct Travel we may be able to offer cover to customers with arthritis as a pre-existing condition, provided it is declared at the medical screening stage of the booking process. Please have to hand information about your condition, any medication you are currently taking and any treatment you have received. Unfortunately, it is harder to arrange travel insurance if you are awaiting a diagnosis or treatment. You should also talk to your Doctor / Consultant before confirming travel plans.

To provide peace of mind for patients, a policy which covers family members, and/or a carer may be suitable depending on your circumstances to ensure that everyone is covered appropriately. If, due to complications relating to your arthritis you are unable to travel you may be able to make a claim for cancellation. Our policies also provide a 24-hour medical assistance line, expenses relating to ambulance and hospital costs and repatriation to the UK amongst others.