Travel Insurance for Varicose Eczema
Got varicose eczema? Declare it in our online medical screening and we can look at cover for your trip.
Tell us about varicose eczema in our simple online screening
Fast online screening that fits around you
Single trip and annual multi-trip policies
Get a QuoteWhat is varicose eczema?
Varicose eczema, sometimes called venous or gravitational eczema, is a long-term skin condition that affects the lower legs. It happens when blood doesn’t flow back up the leg veins properly, often because of varicose veins, so pressure builds up and the skin becomes itchy, swollen, dry and discoloured. It’s one of the skin conditions more common in older people.
Treatment usually combines emollients, steroid creams for flare-ups and compression stockings. Raising your legs when resting helps too. Without care, the skin can break down into a venous leg ulcer. The NHS varicose eczema page has more on causes and treatment.
Why do I need to declare varicose eczema for travel insurance?
Varicose eczema counts as a pre-existing medical condition, along with the vein problems behind it. Skin on the lower legs can break down into ulcers or become infected, and long flights, heat and swollen ankles can make things worse. There’s also a link with blood clots.
All of this affects the chance of needing treatment abroad, which is why we need to know. If it isn’t declared, a claim connected to it could be refused or reduced.
Can I get travel insurance with varicose eczema?
Usually, yes. Whether cover is offered tends to depend on whether you have open leg ulcers, recent skin infections such as cellulitis, a history of blood clots or DVT, and whether you’re waiting for vein treatment.
What we’ll ask about your varicose eczema
The online medical screening is quick and easy to fill in. It asks a few questions that relate to your varicose eczema and gives you a result the moment you finish.
Reading your result
The result shows up the moment you finish. Your quote will say whether varicose eczema has been accepted; if so, the premium quoted already includes it, with no separate charge to add on. If it can’t be included, you’ll be told before going further.
Something new before you travel
If an ulcer develops, your legs become infected, you start new treatment, receive a new diagnosis, go into hospital or are referred for tests after buying your policy, please let us know. Your cover may need reviewing, and an unreported change could affect a related claim.
What varicose eczema travel insurance can cover
When accepted, emergency treatment abroad linked to your varicose eczema can be covered. Swelling and broken skin after a long flight to Florida that turns into an infected leg needing antibiotics or hospital care is one example. Medical bills, and repatriation if a doctor says you need help to get home, can be claimed, subject to the policy terms, exclusions, limits and excess.
If your legs get worse before departure and a doctor advises against travel, cancellation cover may help with non-refundable costs.
Routine dressings or treatment you planned to have abroad aren’t covered, and nor is a claim for a condition you didn’t declare.
Single trip or annual cover with varicose eczema
For one holiday, single trip insurance keeps it simple. If you travel often, annual multi-trip insurance may suit you, depending on your screening result.
Will varicose eczema affect the cost of travel insurance?
Varicose eczema can make a difference to what you pay, with the exact effect set by your screening result. Our online medical screening may ask how the skin on your legs is treated and how well the condition is controlled. As on any quote, your age, where you’re headed and how long you’re away are included too. The price appears before you’re asked to buy.
Travelling with varicose eczema: practical tips
These are general tips and aren’t part of your insurance cover.
Long journeys are hard on the legs. Sitting still for hours slows the blood flow and can make swelling worse. On a plane, coach or long car trip, walk around when you can, flex your ankles and calves while seated, and drink plenty of water. An aisle seat makes getting up easier.
Keep wearing your compression stockings if they’ve been recommended, including during the flight. Ask your GP or nurse about this if you’re unsure, especially if you have circulation problems. Take a spare pair in case one gets damaged.
Heat tends to make swollen legs worse. Rest with your feet up in the afternoon, and try to avoid standing for long periods in queues or on walking tours.
Protect your lower legs from knocks, scratches and insect bites, as broken skin can be slow to heal and may become infected. Pack your emollients and steroid cream in your hand luggage, along with dressings if you use them, and find out how to get a nurse or doctor where you’re staying if a wound needs attention.
How to get a quote
Enter your trip details, complete the medical questions for varicose eczema and any other conditions, then choose your level of cover. The price is shown before you pay.
Other Useful Skin Pages
Don't worry if your condition is not listed above - we cover plenty more medical conditions.
* Please note that cover will vary depending on individual medical screenings.
Varicose eczema travel insurance FAQs
Do I need to declare varicose eczema if I also declare varicose veins?
Can I get cover if I have a leg ulcer?
Should I wear compression stockings on the plane?
Will a leg infection abroad be covered?
I’m waiting for vein surgery. Can I still travel?
Need help?
UK Customer Services0330 880 3600*
Opening hours:
Monday - Friday
9am - 5.00pm
Saturday
8.30am - 4.00pm
Please refer to your Policy Wording.
*Calls are recorded and may be monitored.
Reviews for Direct Travel:
- "Professional, sensitive on health issue questions, and easy to understand. Quick and easy but handled in a professional manner." 21/07/2026
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