Quick answer: Diabetes travel insurance is available, but you must be careful when choosing a plan. Many policies don't automatically cover pre-existing conditions, like diabetes, so it's essential to find travel insurance for diabetics with the proper coverage.
Planning a vacation with diabetes? Millions of people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes travel every year, but many don't realize that regular travel insurance often doesn't fully cover diabetes-related needs.
If something goes wrong on your trip, you want to make sure you're protected. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about getting travel insurance as a diabetic so you can relax, explore, and enjoy your trip confidently.
Related article: The Ultimate Guide to Traveling with Insulin: How to Keep It Refrigerated and Cool on the Go
Does travel insurance cover diabetes?
Travel insurance can cover diabetes, but it depends on the provider and the type of policy.
Most standard policies don't automatically include coverage for pre-existing medical conditions like diabetes. To be covered, you must usually declare your condition when applying for insurance.
Do you have to declare diabetes on travel insurance?
Yes. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you need to declare it when buying travel insurance. Even if you feel healthy and your condition is well managed, it's still considered a pre-existing condition.
When applying for insurance, you may be asked:
- What type of diabetes do you have?
- How is it managed (insulin, pills, diet)?
- Have you had any hospital visits or complications in the last few years?
- Do you take other medications (like for high blood pressure or cholesterol)?
- Do you have any related health issues (like eye problems or nerve pain)?
Even if these questions feel personal, answer them honestly. This will help the insurance company decide what coverage to offer you.
What Happens if I Don't Declare It?
If you don't declare your diabetes and something goes wrong, even if it's not directly caused by diabetes, your claim could be denied.
For example, let's say you faint from heat exhaustion, and the doctor discovers you have diabetes. If you didn't declare that in your insurance application, your claim might be rejected. This could leave you stuck with the entire medical bill, and those can get expensive quickly.
That's why it's essential to be honest and upfront. It's always better to be safe than sorry. Declare your diabetes.
Related article: The Ultimate Checklist for Traveling with Diabetes.
Does Type 2 Diabetes Affect Travel Insurance?
Type 2 diabetes tends to have fewer complications for insurers than Type 1, especially if it's managed through lifestyle or oral medication. In some cases, insurers may not require extra coverage or charge higher premiums. However, if you use insulin or have had hospital visits, the situation is more complex.
💡Important tip: Even if you're managing type 2 diabetes with diet and exercise, you should still declare it. Some insurers might not consider it a risk, but others will.
What does diabetes travel insurance cover?
When choosing a travel insurance policy, it's helpful to know what coverage you need.
Five things a good diabetes travel insurance covers:
1. Pre-Existing Conditions
Your policy should say that it covers pre-existing medical conditions and include diabetes in that list.
2. Emergency Medical Treatment
This is the big one. If you have a diabetes-related emergency (like diabetic ketoacidosis or a severe hypo), your insurance should pay for:
- ✅ Hospital stays
- ✅ Emergency care
- ✅ Ambulance rides
- ✅Prescription refills
3. Medication and Equipment Coverage
Your insulin or diabetes injections (Ozempic, Mounjaro, Trulicity, etc.), test strips, glucose meter, or insulin pump are all essential. If these are lost, stolen, or spoiled (for example, by heat), your policy should help cover replacements.
4. Trip Cancellation or Interruption
If your doctor advises you not to travel, or if you need to cut your trip short due to a diabetes-related issue, your insurance should reimburse the non-refundable parts of your trip.
5. 24/7 Medical Support
Choose a provider with a 24/7 helpline you can call from anywhere worldwide. Being able to speak with a nurse or doctor can be extremely helpful, especially in a foreign country or unfamiliar location.
Related article: TSA Rules for Diabetic Supplies: What You Need to Know Before You Travel
Will it cover insulin deterioration due to heat?
Some policies will cover insulin spoilage, but not all. If this is important to you, ask your insurer directly before buying the policy.
To protect your insulin while traveling, consider packing:
- ✅ A travel insulin cooler or portable fridge
- ✅ Backup insulin in case of emergencies
- ✅ A doctor's note or a diabetes travel letter explaining your medication needs (helpful at airport security, too)
How to find the best diabetes travel insurance (USA)
Choosing a travel insurance policy doesn't need to be complicated. We have a few recommendations for finding the right travel insurance if you have diabetes.
What to look for when choosing travel insurance for diabetes
👍 Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions
Make sure your policy explicitly says it covers pre-existing medical conditions - and that diabetes is listed or accepted.
👍 No or Low Exclusion Clauses
Avoid policies that exclude diabetes-related claims or impose too many restrictions.
👍 High Emergency Medical Limit
Look for a plan that covers at least $500,000 USD in emergency medical care if traveling internationally.
👍 Coverage for Medication Loss or Theft
You don't want to be stranded without insulin or test strips. Confirm that your medication and equipment are covered.
👍 Affordable Deductibles
Make sure the out-of-pocket amount (deductible) is something you're comfortable paying in an emergency.
👍 Travel Assistance
Look for companies that provide 24/7 help lines, mobile apps, or coordination with local hospitals.
Related article: The Ultimate Guide to Traveling with Diabetes: Essential Tips for Packing, Flying, and Managing Your Health on the Go
How much is travel insurance for diabetics?
The cost of travel insurance for someone with diabetes can vary based on several personal factors.
Your age, travel destination, trip length, and whether your diabetes is managed with insulin all play a role in determining the price. Recent complications or the need for more comprehensive coverage can also increase the cost.
On average, here's what you can expect to pay:
✈️ For short trips: between $40 and $80
✈️ For longer, international travel: from $100 to $300
Remember that prices may be higher if you're over 65 or have multiple health conditions.
While some companies charge an extra fee to cover diabetes, others may include it at no additional cost, especially if your condition is well-controlled.
Top USA providers that offer travel insurance for diabetes
These companies are known for providing solid travel insurance options for people with diabetes:
When comparing policies, look for ones that say they cover pre-existing conditions and don't have long waiting periods or restrictions.
There's no one-size-fits-all answer to which travel insurance policy is best for diabetes; it depends on your personal needs, health, and budget.
When choosing the right coverage, consider factors like:
- How long you'll be traveling
- Where you're going
- What activities you'll be doing (adventure sports may require extra coverage)
- Your age and overall health
Taking the time to match your policy to your travel plans will help ensure you're fully protected in case something unexpected happens.
Related article: How to Store Insulin Without Refrigeration? Practical Tips from a Type 1 Diabetic!
Five steps to apply for travel insurance as a diabetic
Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Collect your health info: Have a list of medications, diagnoses, and dates of doctor visits ready.
- Be honest when declaring your condition: Include both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, even if you're symptom-free.
- Shop around: Don't settle for the first offer. Policies vary a lot, even from the same provider.Compare quotes online, look for pre-existing condition coverage, and read the reviews. Use comparison websites or brokers.
- Ask questions: Call or chat with the provider to clarify what's covered and what's not.
- Buy your policy early: Some companies require you to buy the insurance within 14 days of your first trip deposit to qualify for full coverage.
💡Pro tip: Keep a digital copy of your policy on your phone and a printed version in your travel documents.
Last tips for staying safe & covered while traveling with diabetes
Since diabetes is classified as a pre-existing condition, you'll need to find a policy that specifically includes coverage for it. Shop around, compare providers, and always read the fine print.
Traveling with diabetes doesn't have to be scary. With the right travel insurance in place, you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
Key Takeaways:
🧳 Declare Everything: Always disclose your diabetes when applying for insurance, or future claims could be denied.
💰 Price Varies: Diabetes travel insurance costs depend on age, location, insulin use, and trip length - expect $40 to $300 depending on your trip and condition.
🩺 Look for the Right Coverage: Choose plans covering pre-existing conditions and including emergency care.
🌍 Shop Smart: Compare multiple providers and read the fine print to make sure your diabetes is fully covered while traveling.
We'd Love to Hear From You!
💬 Have you traveled with diabetes or gone through the process of finding the right insurance? If you have a tip, story, or question, share your experience in the comments. Your advice could help other travelers navigating travel insurance for diabetics feel more confident and prepared!
📆 Article Update History:
✅ Updated: April 17, 2025
Originally Published: September 30, 2022
