Travelling with Diabetes

Can I get travel insurance if I have diabetes?

Yes – you can usually get travel insurance if you have diabetes, whether it’s Type 1 or Type 2. The key is making sure your condition is declared, so your policy reflects your medical needs. Depending on how well-controlled your diabetes is and whether you have any related conditions or complications, we’ll work to find cover that suits you. At MIA, we provide specialist medical travel insurance for people who may have struggled to find cover elsewhere. If your condition is stable, you may be able to use our quick online quote system. If things are more complex, our friendly team is ready to talk through your options.

Medical screening

If your diabetes is well-managed and stable, you can usually get a quick quote using our simple online system. If your condition is more complex, or you have additional circulatory or heart-related concerns, you may prefer us to take you through a quote over the phone. Make sure any related conditions – like neuropathy or retinopathy – are declared too. We’ll work with you to make sure they’re included in your cover wherever possible.

Tips for travelling with diabetes

Before you travel, ask for advice on managing your condition while you’re away. This includes planning for changes to your medication schedule if you’re crossing time zones, or getting a letter to explain why you’re carrying insulin, needles or CGMs.

Bring at least twice the amount of medication you need – and split it between your hand luggage and checked bag, in case one gets lost. Keep all items in their original packaging with pharmacy labels, and carry your diabetes ID and GP letter at all times. Ask your doctor if they recommend a backup prescription, insulin pens, or oral glucose just in case.

Diabetes.org recommend that you carry twice the amount of medication than you’d ordinarily need, and if you’re flying, split this between your hand luggage and hold luggage just in case of loss or delay. The times you take your regular medication can be affected by travelling through time-zones, speak to your diabetic team for advice on how to best manage this.

If you use an insulin pump or Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM), contact your airline in advance – you may need to complete a form or carry specific documentation. These devices should not go through airport body scanners, so download a Medical Device Awareness Card to show at security. Your GP letter can also help with getting syringes and fluids over 100ml through hand-luggage checks.

Download a Medical Device Awareness Card before you travel to show to security at the airport.

Whether it’s glucose tablets, biscuits, or dried fruit, always carry hypo treatments – especially on flights or long journeys where delays could interfere with meal times. If you’re flying, ask the airline for approximate meal times so you can plan around your usual medication routine.

Temperature can affect how your body absorbs insulin and how your devices perform. Heat may speed up absorption, while cold can slow it down. Monitor your blood glucose more often when travelling to extreme climates and adjust your routine accordingly.

There are many online sources that offer advice on travelling with diabetes, the NHS website has a information and tips on how to make the most of your holiday, and looking after yourself while you’re away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes – all pre-existing conditions must be declared. Even if your diabetes is stable and doesn’t affect your day-to-day life, not disclosing it could make your policy invalid.

They can be, as long as you let us know about them. Common diabetes-related conditions include high blood pressure, cholesterol issues, retinopathy, neuropathy and kidney problems. We’ll try to include these in your policy wherever possible - and let you know upfront if anything is excluded.

If your doctor confirms you’re medically unfit to travel due to your diabetes or a related condition, we may be able to refund cancellation costs under your policy. This also applies to anyone named on the policy if they’re unable to travel as a result.

Yes. If your condition worsens while abroad, our Emergency Medical Assistance team can help get you home safely - along with a travel companion, if they’re named on your policy. We’ll cover any eligible costs you can’t recover elsewhere.

Not usually – but it depends on your individual needs. If the destination lacks access to medical facilities, or if you’re unable to receive recommended travel vaccinations due to your condition or medication, we may not be able to offer cover. Always speak to your doctor and check government travel advice before booking.

You don’t need a fitness-to-travel letter unless your airline or destination requires one - but we do recommend speaking to your GP or diabetes team before you go. If they flag any concerns or restrictions, let us know so we can make sure your cover remains valid.

Our team is here to help – call us on 0800 999 3333 and we’ll talk you through your options.