Can you get travel insurance if you have epilepsy?
You can with JustCover. No fuss. No stress. Just tell us about your epilepsy when you get your quote. We’ll find you the policy that’s tailored to your needs.
Our epilepsy travel insurance covers medical emergencies related to your condition. It will even cover repatriation back to Ireland if you need it.
We cover:
- Absence seizures
- Myoclonic seizures
- Atonic seizures
- Photosensitive epilepsy
- Febrile seizures
- Seizures that only happen when you're asleep
- Focal seizures
- Seizures with a known cause, like brain injury or haemorrhage
- Generalised tonic-clonic seizures
Why do you need travel insurance for epilepsy?
Whether you’re jetting off to the sun or hopping across to Europe, travel brings excitement. But for people with epilepsy, holidays can have unique challenges. Even well-managed epilepsy can be affected by jet lag, stress or unfamiliar environments.
Travel insurance that covers epilepsy protects you if your condition flares up abroad. Here’s why it’s so important:
- Covers repatriation. Disrupted sleep, heat and stress. Travel can trigger seizures, even if your epilepsy is usually stable. According to Epilepsy Ireland, a change in time zone can affect your medication schedule. Our travel insurance for epilepsy is designed with this in mind. There’s a 24/7 emergency helpline, and it can even get you back to Ireland for treatment in an emergency.
- Covers medical expenses. In Ireland, epilepsy accounts for around 6,000 hospital admissions each year. Over 40% of patients hospitalised for a seizure in the United States spend at least a week in the hospital. If the worst happened, it could cost up to $21,000. Our travel insurance for epilepsy covers emergency medical care, so you won’t be left footing the bill.
- Covers medication. Off to Europe and lost the bag that contains your medication? Newer or branded epilepsy drugs can be pricey to replace. Co-payments for prescriptions are common in countries like Spain, France, and Italy. Even EHIC holders may have to pay up to 50% of the cost. That’s why travel insurance with epilepsy cover is still essential, even with a European Health Insurance Card.
What does JustCover’s travel insurance for epilepsy cover?
The best holiday insurance for epilepsy lets you travel stress-free. With JustCover, you’re covered for medical emergencies, cancellations² and lost baggage. And with customisable options, you can build a policy that suits your travel plans. For full details of what is and isn’t included, read our Policy Wording.
What's covered
Emergency medical expenses & repatriation – Covers tests, treatments and medications if you fall ill or get injured abroad. Includes repatriation to bring you safely back to Ireland.
Cancellation protection – If something unexpected forces you to cancel your trip before you set off, we’ll cover your flight and accommodation costs.
Curtailment cover – If you need to return home early due to an emergency, we’ll help with the costs.
Travel delay compensation – If your flight is delayed, we’ll compensate you for the inconvenience.
Personal belongings protection – Covers lost, stolen or damaged baggage and valuables.
Personal liability cover – If you accidentally injure someone or damage property while travelling, we’ll cover legal expenses and liability costs.
What's not covered
Claims below the policy excess – You can’t claim for any amount less than the excess set out in your policy.
Trips outside your chosen region – Tell us where you’re headed so we can make sure your destinations are covered.
Pre-existing known circumstances – Issues you were aware of before booking may not be covered.
Undeclared medical conditions – Tell us all of your pre-existing conditions to make sure you’re fully protected.
Choosing not to travel – We’ll only cover cancellation if the reason falls within our policy terms.
Do you have to declare epilepsy for travel insurance purposes?
Yes, you do need to declare epilepsy when applying for travel insurance. But it’s not as daunting as it sounds.
Epilepsy is considered a pre-existing medical condition. We need to know about it to offer you the right level of cover. Even if your seizures are infrequent, you still need to tell us about your diagnosis. That way, your policy will cover emergency treatment if you have a seizure abroad.
But declaring your epilepsy doesn’t mean you’ll be denied cover. And being upfront protects you from having claims rejected later. So while it might feel like a hassle, it’s actually your safety net, letting you explore the world worry-free.
What if you’re no longer having seizures?
Around 70% of people with epilepsy in Ireland are well controlled on medication. But even if you’re no longer experiencing seizures, you still need to declare it. That’s because we base our travel insurance for seizures on your full medical history, not just your current symptoms.
We take into account:
- How long it’s been since your last seizure
- Whether you’re still taking medication
- If you’ve had any recent hospital admissions
Our medical screening process is quick and straightforward. It’s designed to help you get the right protection for your trip.
How to get travel insurance if you have epilepsy
Getting holiday insurance for epilepsy is simple and stress-free with JustCover. Here’s how it works:
Start with a quote. You’ll begin by entering basic trip details. Things like your destination, travel dates and who’s travelling. This helps us tailor your policy from the outset.
Complete a medical screening. You’ll be asked a few simple questions about your epilepsy. This ensures your policy includes the right level of protection.
Get matched with suitable cover. Our policies include cover for emergency medical treatment and medication replacement. We can even cover medical repatriation if needed.
Finalise your policy. Once you’ve reviewed your options and chosen a policy, you’re good to go. And with our 24/7 emergency medical helpline, you’ll have support every step of the way.
What to expect in the medical questionnaire
When you get your quote, you'll be asked to complete a short medical questionnaire. This helps us understand your condition and tailor your cover. The process is quick, confidential, and designed to match you with the right policy.
You might be asked:
- What type of epilepsy do you have?
- When were you diagnosed, and when was your last seizure?
- How often do you experience seizures?
- Are you currently taking medication?
- Have you had any hospital admissions or emergency treatment in the past two years?
- Do you have any other medical conditions linked to your epilepsy? For example, a brain injury or stroke?
- Have you ever been advised not to travel or drive due to your condition?
How much does travel insurance cost for people with epilepsy?
There’s no one-size-fits-all price when it comes to travel health insurance for epilepsy. Each policy is tailored to your personal health and travel plans. Several factors influence the cost, including:
- Your medical history. The cost of cover can vary depending on how well-controlled your epilepsy is. If you have other pre-existing conditions alongside epilepsy, such as diabetes or heart disease, these may also affect your premium.
- Your destination. Travelling within Europe usually means more affordable cover, especially if you’re carrying your EHIC. Destinations with high healthcare costs, such as the US or Japan, may cost more.
- Your trip details. Longer holidays, adventurous activities or remote travel may increase the cost because they carry more risk. Add-ons like valuables protection or extreme sports cover can also boost premiums. Travelling with a partner, in a group, or with family may make things more affordable.
Choose the right level of cover
We offer different levels of cover to make your Travel Insurance as cost-effective as possible.
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Find the best travel insurance for epilepsy
Our policies are designed to keep you covered, so you can focus on enjoying your holiday without added worries.
Single trip travel insurance
Heading off on one trip this year? Our single trip insurance protects you from the day you set out until you’re safely back home again.
Annual multi-trip travel insurance
Love to travel more often? With our annual multi-trip policy, you can enjoy unlimited getaways in a year, all under one simple plan.
Why choose JustCover for your epilepsy travel insurance?
At JustCover, we understand the needs of travellers with epilepsy. We’re here for you if something goes wrong abroad.
Here are just a few reasons to choose us to cover your trip:
- Over 20 years’ experience finding the right cover for our customers
- 24/7 emergency medical assistance
- Up to unlimited cover for medical expenses and repatriation
- 98% of customers would recommend us³
- Up to €3k personal belongings and baggage cover
Specialist travel insurance for epilepsy
The best epilepsy travel insurance does more than cover your condition. It adapts to your lifestyle and travel plans, thanks to tailored policies and flexible add-ons.
With no upper age limit, our seniors travel insurance lets you do more in retirement.
Travel insurance with medical conditions
Covers over 1,300 pre-existing medical conditions, so you can relax and travel care-free.
Ideal if you’re travelling with children, this policy offers flexible protection for your whole family.
Planning a peaceful escape at sea? JustCover protects you, even if you have a seizure on board.
Destinations covered by epilepsy travel insurance
Exploring the world or relaxing closer to home? Our epilepsy travel insurance is designed to move with you. You can take us with you, wherever you’re going.
From Spanish beaches to alpine trails, our European travel insurance lets you soak up every moment.
Planning a bigger adventure? Worldwide cover lets you go further. From the US to Japan, medical assistance is just a phone call away.
Does your travel destination matter when you have epilepsy?
Your travel destination can make a big difference when you have epilepsy. Planning ahead helps ensure a safe, stress-free trip. Here’s what to consider:
- Climate and environmental triggers. Flying long haul? Heat, humidity and jet lag can increase seizure risk for some people. Sleep disruption from long flights or time zone changes may lower your seizure threshold.
- Medication restrictions. Some countries restrict certain epilepsy medications. You may need a doctor’s letter and a translated prescription to carry medication through customs.
- Access to medical care. In countries with limited healthcare infrastructure, emergency treatment may be harder to access or costly. Even within Europe, prescription rules vary, and you may need to see a local doctor to get a refill.
- Local attitudes. In some regions, epilepsy is poorly understood or stigmatised. It’s wise to carry an epilepsy ID card or wear medical jewellery.
Epilepsy travel insurance with other pre-existing medical conditions
Living with epilepsy and another health condition is more common than you might think. In fact, up to 40% of adults with epilepsy also live with another pre-existing condition, such as depression, anxiety, diabetes, migraines or cardiovascular disease. These can all affect your travel insurance if you don’t declare them.
We specialise in helping Irish travellers with more than one pre-existing condition get the cover they need. Common conditions we’ll cover alongside your epilepsy include:
- Asthma
- Diabetes
- Depression
- Heart conditions
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- COPD
- Cancer
Will an EHIC cover you abroad if you have epilepsy?
Yes, it will. Irish travellers with epilepsy can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access public healthcare in EU and EEA countries. It’s a valuable safety net if you need emergency treatment while abroad.
However, it’s not a replacement for epilepsy travel insurance.
The EHIC only covers public healthcare. It won’t pay for private treatment.
No cover for medical evacuation. If you need to be flown home due to a seizure, your EHIC won’t cover the cost. That’s why travel insurance with epilepsy cover is essential. It fills the gaps EHIC leaves behind.
No cover if you need to cancel. Hotels, flights and tours can be expensive. If a seizure means you can’t go on your trip, holiday insurance for epilepsy can help you recoup prepaid costs.
Medication replacement isn’t guaranteed. If your epilepsy medication is lost or stolen, the EHIC may not cover the full cost of replacing it. You’ll need a doctor’s letter and prescription, and even then, you may have to pay upfront.
In short, EHIC is a great backup. But it’s not a substitute for epilepsy holiday insurance.
Being covered is as easy as 1, 2, 3
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Now all you need to do is to choose the level of cover that best suits your needs
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Purchase your cover and you’re ready to go – we’ll take care of the rest!
Expert travel insurance recommendations from our team
"Everyone deserves to relax on holiday, and that includes people living with epilepsy. Our epilepsy travel insurance is tailored to fit your health needs. It means you don’t have to worry about medical bills if something goes wrong while you're away.
Whether you need urgent treatment or even help to get home safely, we're here to take the financial pressure off."
Peter Clark - JustCover Director
What our customers say
“I had a most helpful and courteous contact when taking out my travel insurance. I was amazed at the detail required, but delighted that all aspects of my health and my wife's were covered. I was very confident in dealing with the professionalism of Gemma to discuss our medical history.”
see full reviewTips for travelling with epilepsy
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a long-haul adventure, epilepsy doesn’t have to hold you back. With the right preparation and support, you can travel smart. Here are some practical tips to help you get started.
Preparing for your trip
- Speak to your GP or epilepsy nurse. Ideally, at least six to eight weeks before you travel. They can advise on vaccinations, medication adjustments and whether you need a fit-to-fly letter. If you’re travelling with controlled medication like clonazepam or phenobarbital, you’ll need a doctor’s letter.
- Apply for an EHIC if you’re heading to Europe.
- Buy your epilepsy travel insurance as soon as you book your travel. That way, you’re covered if your health changes before departure.
- Pack your medication in your hand luggage. Keep it in its original packaging, with a copy of your prescription. It’s wise to bring a spare supply in your checked bag, just in case.
Travelling with epilepsy
6. Stick to your usual medication schedule. You’ll need to do this across time zones if you’re flying long-haul. Simple phone alarms can help. If jet lag, heat or sleep disruption are seizure triggers for you, build in time to rest.
7. Wear medical jewellery or carry an epilepsy ID card. If you’re travelling solo, let your accommodation know discreetly about your condition. Share your itinerary with someone back home.
8. If you have a seizure abroad, our emergency helpline can help. We can arrange treatment, liaise with hospitals and even organise repatriation if needed. Keep the number saved in your phone and carry your policy documents with you.
Frequently asked questions about travel insurance for epilepsy
Can you fly if you have epilepsy?
According to Epilepsy Ireland, flying is generally safe for people with epilepsy. As long as your seizures are well-managed, you’re usually considered fit to fly.
Airlines typically don’t require medical clearance unless you’ve had a tonic-clonic seizure within the past 24 hours. It’s a good idea to carry your medication in your hand luggage, along with a doctor’s letter and prescription, especially if you’re travelling with controlled substances. Wearing medical jewellery can help others assist you if needed.
Is there an age limit for epilepsy holiday insurance?
Not at JustCover. We believe that adventure has no age cap, and neither should your travel insurance. That’s why our holiday insurance for epilepsy is open to people of all ages. There’s no upper age limit to restrict your plans.
Whether you’re planning a city break, cruise, or long-haul escape, we can even cover you if you’re over 80. The only exception? We can’t cover winter sports if you’re over 65.
Can you travel alone if you have epilepsy?
Yes, you can. Many people with epilepsy travel solo. It just takes a little extra planning to make sure your journey is smooth sailing.
Start by considering your seizure pattern. If your epilepsy is well-managed, you’re generally good to go. But if your seizures are unpredictable, speak to your GP or epilepsy nurse before booking. It's always good to get expert reassurance.
Pack wisely. Keep medication in your hand luggage. Bring your prescription and a doctor’s letter. Wear medical jewellery or carry an epilepsy ID card.
Stay connected. Share your itinerary with a trusted contact. Save emergency numbers on your phone. Let your accommodation know about your condition, just in case.
Keep an eye on common triggers. Jet lag, heat and sleep disruption can lower your seizure threshold. Build in time to rest, set reminders for your meds and look after your wellbeing along the way.
Is epilepsy considered a pre-existing medical condition for travel insurance?
Yes, epilepsy is considered a pre-existing medical condition at JustCover. When you get a quote for travel insurance with us, you’ll need to declare it.
When you get a quote, simply let us know about your epilepsy. We’ll then ask a few straightforward questions to tailor your cover. This might include things like:
- How often you experience seizures
- When you last had one
- The type and severity of your epilepsy
- Whether there’s a known cause (like a brain injury or stroke)
- Any hospital visits you’ve had related to it
- Medications you’re currently taking
Each answer helps us build a policy that’s right for you.
Do you need a fit-to-fly letter for epilepsy?
In most cases, you don’t need a fit-to-fly letter just because you have epilepsy. Airlines won’t usually ask for medical clearance unless there’s a specific concern.
If in doubt, it’s best to check with your airline and speak to your GP or epilepsy specialist.
There are a few situations where a fit-to-fly letter may be required:
You’ve had a tonic-clonic seizure within the past 24 hours. Most airlines follow international guidelines, which recommend medical clearance.
Your epilepsy is unstable or has recently changed. If your medication has been adjusted or you’ve had a flare-up, it’s wise to speak with your GP before flying. They may issue a letter confirming you’re fit to travel.
You’re carrying controlled medication. Drugs like clonazepam or phenobarbital may require a doctor’s letter for customs and airport security.
You’re flying with a vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) or other medical equipment. A letter can help explain your device and avoid issues at security checkpoints.
What happens if you need to cancel your trip due to your epilepsy?
No one likes to think of the worst happening. But if you need to cancel your trip due to a seizure, epilepsy travel insurance means you’re protected.
That’s because the best epilepsy travel insurance doesn’t just cover you while you’re away. It steps in before you even take off.
Our annual multi-trip cover will kick in from your chosen start date. If you start it on the day you book your trip, you’re protected if epilepsy forces you to cancel.
If you buy single-trip cover for a one-off holiday as soon as you book your trip, you’ll be covered for cancellations or changes before you even pack your bags. Just make sure you buy it before leaving Ireland – it can’t be added once your trip begins.
What happens if you have a seizure abroad?
If you experience a seizure while travelling, your safety comes first. Here’s how to handle the situation confidently:
Get help immediately. Carry an epilepsy ID card or medical jewellery. Seek medical attention if needed. Your insurance can cover hospital visits, tests and treatment.
Call our emergency helpline. We offer 24/7 emergency assistance. We can help you find a local doctor or even liaise with the hospital directly.
Carry your policy and medical documents. Keep a copy of your travel insurance policy, prescription, and a doctor’s letter in your hand luggage. These documents help speed up treatment and avoid delays at customs or pharmacies.
How soon after a seizure can you fly?
The general guidance is to wait at least 24 hours after a seizure before flying, especially if it was a tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizure. This advice is echoed by Epilepsy Ireland and supported by international aviation guidelines.
If your seizures are well-controlled and you haven’t had a recent episode, you’re usually considered fit to fly. But if you’ve had a seizure within the past day or your epilepsy is unstable, airlines may require medical clearance from your GP or specialist.
It’s always a good idea to speak with your doctor before booking, especially if your medication has changed or you’ve had a recent flare-up.
Can you fly with a vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) device?
Yes, you can fly with a vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) device, and many people with epilepsy do so safely. Just be aware that VNS devices are similar to pacemakers and may trigger metal detectors or security scanners. It’s best to carry your device ID card and inform security staff before screening.Q content here
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2. Covers cancellation for certain reasons outside of your control. Amount of cover depends on the policy level you have purchased. Read our Policy Wording for full exclusions and Ts&Cs.
3. Based on 128 responses, correct as of 27/08/2025.
* Discount applies to the base price only and does not apply to any premium generated to cover medical conditions or optional extras. This discount is automatically applied and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Discount tiers of 5% for premiums between €0-49, 10% for €50-249, & 20% for €250+ apply. Offer ends at 23:59 on 30/09/25. T&C's apply.