Bipolar disorder travel insurance

Formerly known as manic depression, bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that can cause a person to swing repeatedly between extreme moods – both low and high.

People who have bipolar disorder tend to have periods of depression – where they feel very low and lethargic – and mania, where they feel high and overactive.

Living with bipolar disorder can be tough, and the associated changes in mood often interfere with everyday life. Fortunately, there is plenty of help available and most people with the condition are still able to experience the fun and joy of travel. In fact, activity and relaxation are both recommended treatments – and both can be included as part of a well-deserved holiday.

Free Spirit specialises in providing travel insurance to people of any age with existing medical conditions, including mental health disorders like bipolar, depression, and anxiety.

Our cover gives you the freedom to enjoy your holiday, with the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re fully protected should you need to cancel your trip, or if you require any emergency medical treatment whilst you’re away*.

Do I need medical travel insurance for bipolar disorder?

As thoroughly as you prepare for a holiday, there’s always a chance that something won’t go to plan – that’s why travel insurance exists. For those with a pre-existing health condition like bipolar disorder, arranging specialist cover as soon as your trip is booked is even more important, as the likelihood of cancelling the trip are higher and the consequences greater.

For example, with Free Spirit, you will be covered for transport (e.g. airline) and/or accommodation (e.g. hotel)  costs you have already incurred should you need to cancel your holiday, right up until you are due to travel. Most standard policies do not include this kind of cancellation cover for those with bipolar disorder.

Medical assistance can be costly in the country you’re visiting – as would new flights or accommodation should something related to your condition get in the way of your original trip.

By purchasing specialist travel insurance for bipolar disorder in advance, you’ll be free to relax during your trip, safe in the knowledge that should anything go wrong, you can focus on your own wellbeing without any distractions. You’ll also have quick and easy access to the necessary medical treatment, without any large bills waiting for you at home.

Getting travel insurance when you have bipolar disorder

At Free Spirit, we’ve made it easy for you to get a medical travel insurance quote.

Simply apply online or get in touch with our friendly team on 02392 419 080 to see what cover is suitable for you. We’ll ask a series of questions to ensure you get the perfect policy.

Usually, a person with bipolar disorder will be asked the following questions:

• Have you had a compulsory hospital admission for treatment of this condition in the last 10 years?
• How many hospital admissions have you had for this condition in the last 2 years?
• Have you currently been advised to take medication for this condition?
• Have you been taking medication for this condition at any time during the last two years?
• Has this condition ever caused you to cancel a planned trip?

In some cases, a quotation is not available online and you will be asked to telephone us to see if we can provide cover.

Why choose Free Spirit bipolar disorder travel insurance?

Not all travel insurance policies are equal. We offer policies designed specifically for people with existing health conditions, including bipolar disorder*. There are plenty of other reasons to choose Free Spirit too:

• No upper age limit on single trip policies
• A choice of two cover options: ‘Super’ and ‘Super Duper’ – click here for details
• Single trips are covered for up to 94 days (for persons aged 76 years and over the maximum duration is 45 days)
• Annual multi-trip policies provide cover for an unlimited number of trips – and you can travel for up to 32 days per trip (Super) and 45 days (Super Duper)
• Extended journey disruption cover **
• Dedicated 24-hour emergency medical assistance helpline always available to help when you need it most
• Cover for loss or damage to medical aids and any prescribed medication you have for your bipolar disorder

**Included with ‘Super Duper’ cover only

Things to consider before you travel

A holiday is a great way to enjoy both relaxation and activity – both of which can ease the symptoms of bipolar disorder. As someone with an existing medical condition, however, it’s important that you properly prepare for the trip ahead.

Before you set off, make your doctor aware that you’re going away. This will give them a chance to adjust your medication if necessary, or just offer extra advice.

It’s crucial too that, if you’re travelling abroad, you make sure any medication you need to take with you is legal in the country you’re visiting. If not, your doctor may be able to provide an alternative, or a formal note that allows you to carry it.

Be sure to stay in contact with friends and family while you’re away.

More information on travelling with bipolar disorder can be found at the Bipolar UK website.

Get a quote today

To get a quote matched to your needs, fill in our handy online form or give us a call on 02392 419 080. Equally, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch or ask the Free Spirit Team– we’d be happy to help.

*Cover is subject to the terms, conditions and limits of the Insurance Policy.