Can you get travel insurance if you have arthritis?
You can with JustCover. We know that arthritis is a part of life for many holidaymakers. It’s why our travel insurance for arthritis is designed to support you, wherever your holiday takes you.
Whatever type of arthritis you have, our fuss-free policies help you focus on the fun. We’ll cover emergency medical treatment, cancellations, lost luggage and more. There’s no upper age limit. And if you have other medical conditions alongside your arthritis, we’re here to help with that too.
Why do you need travel insurance if you have arthritis?
Travelling with arthritis means thinking ahead, especially when it comes to your health. Whether you live with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or another type, flare-ups can happen unexpectedly.
That’s where travel insurance for arthritis comes in. It helps cover emergency medical care abroad, so you’re not left footing the bill if symptoms worsen while you’re away. You’re also protected for things like trip cancellations, lost medication and stolen belongings.
Even if your symptoms are well-managed, it’s important to declare your condition when buying cover. That way, you’ll be properly protected if you need emergency medical help abroad.
Here’s how arthritis travel insurance can keep your plans on track.
- Arthritis can flare up when you travel. Changes in climate can worsen symptoms, triggering joint pain or swelling. If you need emergency treatment abroad, it can be expensive. In the USA, for example, a three-day hospital stay can cost up to $30,000 – and the EHIC won’t cover you.
- Arthritis can affect your travel plans. Arthritis is a leading cause of disability and hospital visits in Ireland. If your condition affects your holiday plans before you go, arthritis travel insurance with cancellation cover helps protect your prepaid costs.
- Arthritis travel insurance covers medication. From anti-inflammatories to biologics, arthritis meds can be pricey to replace overseas. Travel insurance helps cover the cost if your medication is lost or stolen.
Are all types of arthritis covered?
At JustCover, we believe everyone should enjoy a holiday. That includes the nearly one million people in Ireland living with arthritis. It’s why we’ll consider all types of arthritis, including:
- Osteoarthritis - The most common form of arthritis, typically linked to wear and tear over time. It can cause joint stiffness, especially after long flights. Travel insurance for osteoarthritis will support your needs while you’re away. It offers vital protection if your symptoms flare up or your plans need to change. It can even cover mobility aids.
- Rheumatoid arthritis - An autoimmune condition that can flare up without warning, affecting joints and overall well-being. Travel insurance for rheumatoid arthritis offers vital protection if you need medical support while abroad.
- Psoriatic arthritis - Often linked to psoriasis, this condition can affect both joints and skin. It can sometimes cause swelling, stiffness and fatigue. Changes in climate, stress or even travel routines may trigger symptoms. Travel insurance for psoriatic arthritis helps make sure you’re covered if you have to adjust your plans.
We can also cover less common types of arthritis, including (but not limited to):
- Ankylosing spondylitis - A type of arthritis that mainly affects the spine. Long journeys or unfamiliar beds might cause discomfort.
- Gout - Caused by a build-up of uric acid, leading to sudden joint pain that’s often in the big toe. Rich food and alcohol can be triggers while travelling.
- Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus) - A complex autoimmune condition that can affect multiple organs. You may need cover for flare-ups or fatigue-related issues.
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis - Arthritis in children and teens. Travel insurance helps make sure even young holidaymakers have access to care if symptoms worsen.
- Reactive arthritis - Often follows an infection and can cause joint pain and swelling. It may flare unexpectedly, so cover is important.
- Septic arthritis - A rare but serious infection in the joint. Declaring it protects you for emergency treatment if needed.
What does JustCover’s arthritis travel insurance cover?
Finding the best travel insurance for arthritis means knowing what your policy includes and what it doesn’t. Take a look at the key benefits and exclusions below, and check our Policy Wording for the full details.
What's covered
Emergency medical expenses and repatriation costs - This includes the costs of tests, medications and procedures necessary to treat an illness or injury while abroad. You’ll also be covered for repatriation, making sure you return safely to Ireland.
Cancellation - Cover for flight and accommodation costs if an unexpected event means you have to cancel your trip before you go.
Curtailment - Cover if you need to return home early following an emergency.
Travel delays - If your flight is delayed, we’ll compensate you for the time.
Personal belongings - You’ll be covered if your bags (or their contents) are lost or stolen.
Personal liability - Cover for your legal expenses and any liability if you accidentally injure someone or damage their property while you’re away on holiday.
Legal protection cover - Provides cover for your legal expenses if you have to claim compensation or damages due to something that happened while you were away on holiday.
What's not covered
Claims below the value of the excess - This is dependent on your policy level.
Trips outside the region of cover - If you go somewhere not covered in your policy documents.
Known events or circumstances - Claims related to problems that you knew about before booking the trip or buying the travel insurance.
Medical conditions you don’t declare - You need to tell us all of your pre-existing medical conditions to be fully covered.
Choosing not to travel - You’re only covered for cancellation where the reason falls within the policy terms and conditions.
Travelling against medical advice - We can’t cover you if you’ve been told not to go by a doctor or your medical team. We also can’t cover you if you’re travelling to get treatment.
Do you need to declare arthritis for travel insurance purposes?
Yes, you do need to declare arthritis when taking out travel insurance. Even if your condition is mild or well-managed, being upfront means your policy can protect you properly.
Declaring arthritis covers you for emergency medical treatment while you’re away. It can also cover lost medication or changes to your travel plans if your health takes an unexpected turn. Plus, it helps avoid issues if you need to make a claim later on.
A pre-existing medical condition is any condition that falls within the medical warranty. You must tell us if you or anyone else insured on this policy has:
- Taken prescribed medication or received medical advice or treatment in the last two years.
- Been placed on a waiting list that could affect your trip.
- Been advised of a terminal illness.
Declaring arthritis doesn’t necessarily mean your premium will shoot up. Most people with arthritis are still eligible for affordable cover with JustCover.
How to get travel insurance if you have arthritis
Getting travel insurance for arthritis is simple with JustCover. We’re here to help you find the policy that’s right for you. It’s why we make our application process easy and fuss-free.
- Start by getting a quote online or giving us a call. We’ll ask a few quick questions about your trip and who you’d like covered.
- You’ll fill out a short medical questionnaire. It’s straightforward and helps us shape your policy around your health needs. Just answer honestly so your cover works exactly as it should.
- Once that’s done, we’ll send you a personalised quote. You can go ahead and buy it, or save it for later. It’s completely up to you.
What to expect in the medical questionnaire
When you get your quote, we’ll ask you a few simple questions about your health. Your answers help us tailor your travel insurance for arthritis to suit your needs. It’s helpful to have your medical history at hand, including any prescriptions or treatment details.
If you’re buying holiday insurance with arthritis, we might ask:
- When were you diagnosed with arthritis?
- What type do you have (e.g. osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis)?
- What treatments or medications are you currently using?
- Do you experience joint pain or stiffness when walking short distances?
- When was your last review with your GP or specialist?
- Have you needed emergency care or hospital treatment for your arthritis recently?
- Do you have any other pre-existing medical conditions?
How much does arthritis travel insurance cost?
Travel insurance for arthritis may cost more than a standard policy. That’s simply because there’s a higher chance you might need medical support while you’re away.
But don’t worry. At JustCover, we tailor your quote to your specific health needs. If your arthritis is mild and well-managed, your premium is likely to be lower than someone with more complex symptoms.
Several factors can affect the cost of your cover:
- Your destination. Countries like the USA have higher medical costs, which can impact your premium.
- The length of your trip. A weekend away carries less risk than a month-long adventure.
- The severity of your arthritis. If you’ve needed recent hospital care or have mobility challenges, this may affect your quote.
- Your age and health. If you have additional pre-existing conditions or are an older traveller, this can also play a role.
- The amount of cover you need. You can add cover for things like cruises, winter sports or gadgets.
But getting the right cover doesn’t have to mean paying over the odds. In fact, a few simple choices can help keep costs down. Travelling with friends or family? Group and family policies often work out cheaper than buying individually. Only heading off once this year? A single-trip arthritis travel insurance policy may be more cost-effective than annual multi-trip cover. And if your arthritis is well-managed, that can make a real difference to the price you pay.
Choose the right level of cover
We offer different levels of cover to make your Travel Insurance as cost-effective as possible.
Black
Gold
Silver
Get a quote in minutes...
Find the best travel insurance for arthritis
Whether you’re planning one special getaway or have a year of adventures ahead, we’ve got arthritis travel insurance options to suit your itinerary.
Annual multi-trip travel insurance
Travelling more often this year? Our annual multi-trip policies protect you across multiple holidays. You can focus on the fun, not the paperwork.
Single trip travel insurance
Heading off just once in the next 12 months? Our single-trip arthritis travel insurance is tailored to your break.
Why choose JustCover for your arthritis travel insurance?
Living with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or another type? We can help you find the right holiday insurance for arthritis. Here’s why we’re Ireland’s most trusted travel insurance provider².
- 98% of our customers rate us as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Great’³
- Get up to unlimited cover for emergency medical expenses and repatriation
- Plus up to €10,000 cancellation cover⁴
- Our 24/7 emergency medical helpline will be there when you need it
- 98% of our customers would recommend JustCover to family and friends⁵
Specialist travel insurance for arthritis
Seniors travel insurance
Want to make the most of your retirement? Our seniors travel insurance has no upper age limit, even if you’re living with arthritis.
Pre-existing Medical Conditions
We can cover more than 1,300 pre-existing medical conditions. We can even cover you if you have more than one.
Family travel insurance
Cover your family under one, fuss-free policy, and everyone can travel smart! Less admin, more adventure.
Cruise travel insurance
We understand the unique challenges of cruising with arthritis. From medical care to missed ports, our specialist cover helps you relax and enjoy the journey.
Destinations covered by arthritis travel insurance
Hopping to Europe or off on a long-haul adventure? Wherever you’re heading, our travel insurance for arthritis is designed to keep you covered every step of the way
Arthritis travel insurance with other pre-existing medical conditions
Travelling with arthritis can be challenging enough, and it can feel even more complicated if you’re also living with other medical conditions. We keep things straightforward. We consider more than 1,300 pre-existing conditions and can cover you even if you have more than one.
To make sure you’re fully protected, you’ll need to tell us about your arthritis and any other conditions during the medical screening. It only takes a few minutes and ensures your policy is tailored to your health needs. If anything isn’t declared, you won’t be covered for related claims.
Conditions we can consider alongside arthritis include:
Will an EHIC cover you for medical assistance related to arthritis while abroad?
Yes, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will cover you for medically necessary treatment related to arthritis while travelling in the EU. If you need emergency care during your trip, you’ll be able to access public healthcare on the same terms as local residents.
But the EHIC has its limits. It won’t cover private healthcare, emergency repatriation, or things like lost medication or trip cancellations due to your arthritis. That’s where travel insurance comes in. With a tailored policy, you’re protected from the unexpected – even if it’s something related to your arthritis.
A simple 3-step process to book your arthritis travel insurance
Get your quote in seconds
You will only need to tell us some information about yourself and your holiday plans
Select and tailor your cover
Now all you need to do is to choose the level of cover that best suits your needs
Buy your cover and relax
Purchase your cover and you’re ready to go – we’ll take care of the rest!
Expert travel insurance advice from our team
"Arthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting Irish holidaymakers. But it won’t stand in the way of a great holiday at JustCover. We’ve designed our cover to reflect the real-life needs of people with arthritis. Our tailored policies cover you for cancellations, medical care abroad and even replacement medication if needed. And with a 24/7 emergency medical helpline, you’ll be supported every step of the way."
Peter Clark - JustCover Director
What our customers say
“After visiting many travel insurance sites, I chose JustCover as they best suited my requirements, especially having an "existing medical condition"! There was no hassle and no excessive charges either. I chose an annual multi-trip Black Policy to cover my travels this year.”
see full reviewTips for travelling with arthritis
You deserve a holiday that’s as relaxing as it is rewarding. Luckily, with the right preparation, travelling with arthritis can be smooth, comfortable and full of great memories.
- Plan ahead. Book assistance early if you need help at the airport. Airlines can provide mobility support, priority boarding and help with luggage. Just let them know at least 48 hours in advance.
- Pack smart. Keep your medication in your hand luggage, in its original packaging, along with a doctor’s letter and prescription list. Arthritis Ireland recommends packing essentials, such as pain relief, heat packs, and any mobility aids you rely on.
- Stay mobile. Long journeys can lead to stiffness, so try to move around regularly. Stretch your legs, rotate your ankles and shift positions to keep joints happy.
- Choose comfort. Opt for aisle seats for easier movement, and consider bringing a travel cushion or lumbar support. If you’re staying in a hotel, ask about accessible rooms or walk-in showers.
- Mind the climate. Changes in temperature or humidity can affect symptoms. Layer your clothing and stay hydrated to help your body adjust.
- Take it easy. Don’t overpack your itinerary. Build in rest days and gentle activities so you can enjoy your trip without overdoing it.
- Get the right arthritis insurance. Make sure your travel insurance covers your specific type of arthritis and any related medication or treatment – like ours does at JustCover. That way, you’re protected if your condition flares up or plans need to change.
Frequently asked questions about travel insurance for arthritis
Is it safe to travel with arthritis?
Yes, it’s generally safe to travel with arthritis, and many people do so comfortably. Planning ahead can help you manage symptoms such as pain, stiffness, or fatigue. Arthritis Ireland recommends packing your medication in your hand luggage, staying mobile during travel and letting your airline know if you need assistance.
Can you fly with inflammatory arthritis?
Unlike osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear, inflammatory arthritis is driven by inflammation inside the joint. Common types include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. Inflammatory arthritis can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and sometimes fatigue.
The good news is that you can fly with inflammatory arthritis. It’s worth speaking to your GP before you travel, especially if your condition has recently changed or you’re on immunosuppressant medication. Staying hydrated, moving regularly during the flight and using supportive cushions can help ease discomfort.
Does arthritis count as a pre-existing condition?
Yes, arthritis is classed as a pre-existing medical condition, even if it’s mild or well-managed. That means you’ll need to declare it when buying your travel insurance.
A pre-existing medical condition is any condition that falls within our medical warranty. You must tell us if you or anyone else insured on this policy has:
- In the last two years, have taken any prescribed medication or received medical treatment or advice at a hospital, clinic, GP surgery or via remote consultation or received or been offered palliative care;
- Been placed on a waiting list that could cause you to cancel or curtail your trip;
- Been advised of a terminal illness.
Declaring your arthritis ensures your policy works exactly as it should. If you don’t, you could risk invalidating your cover – even for claims that aren’t directly related to your arthritis. So let us know, and we’ll tailor your policy to suit your health and your holiday plans.
Are there age limits on arthritis travel insurance?
Not at JustCover. We don’t set an upper age limit for travel insurance if you’re living with arthritis or any of the 1,300+ medical conditions we cover. Whether you’re in your 50s, 70s or well into your 80s, we’re here to support your health and your holiday plans with cover that’s built around you.
The only exception is our winter sports cover, which has an age limit of 65. But for everything else, from city breaks to family fun, you’re good to go. So wherever you’re heading, and whatever your age, we can help.
When is the best time to buy travel insurance if you have arthritis?
It’s a good idea to get your travel insurance sorted as soon as your trip is booked. That way, you’re covered from the moment your plans are in place, not just while you’re away. Having the right cover early means less stress should your arthritis flare up before you travel.
So once your flights or accommodation are confirmed, go ahead and book your arthritis travel insurance. Then you can start looking forward to your holiday!
Will your travelling companions be covered if you need to cut your trip short because of arthritis?
Travelling with companions and worried that your health may affect their plans? A group or family travel insurance policy is the best way to go. These types of policies are designed to protect everyone travelling together under one simple plan.
It means if your arthritis flares up and you need to head home early, your companions won’t lose out. It’s a simple way to make sure no one’s left out of pocket.
Do you need to update us if your medication or condition changes before you travel?
It’s important to let us know if anything changes with your health before you go. Whether you’ve started a new treatment or had a flare-up, keeping your policy up to date means you’ll be properly protected while you’re away.
At JustCover, we understand that your condition can change, so we’re here to make things easy. Just give us a call or drop us a message, and we’ll guide you through what to do next. That way, your cover stays in step with your needs, and you can head off on your holiday feeling fully supported.
Get a quick travel insurance quote
Affordable travel insurance for all your needs
2. Based on Trustpilot reviews of all companies in Ireland within the Travel Insurance Company category - January 2025.
3. Based on 2000+ Trustpilot responses, as of 12/05/2025.
4. Covers cancellation for certain reasons outside of your control and detailed in our Policy Wording. Amount of cover depends on the policy level you have purchased.
5. Based on 128 responses, correct as of 27/08/2025