Quick Answer: If you’re living with diabetes, having travel insurance is a must to cover unexpected medical emergencies, lost medication, or any complications that might arise while you’re overseas. Standard travel insurance often doesn’t include preexisting conditions like diabetes, so it’s important to declare your condition and compare policies to find the best cover.
Jetting off on a holiday is always exciting, but if you have diabetes, sorting out the right travel insurance is just as important as packing your bags. Finding the right cover can be a bit trickier since you’ll need a policy that includes preexisting conditions and provides essential protections like emergency medical care or replacing lost medication.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about travel insurance for Australians with type 1 or type 2 diabetes—from understanding preexisting conditions to picking the best insurer for your needs.
Related article: Traveling with Diabetes: Your Checklist and All You Need to Know Before You Go!
What is Holiday Insurance for Diabetics?
Holiday Insurance for Diabetics are special insurance policies designed for people with preexisting conditions like Diabetes, they cover medical costs, trip cancellations, and other travel risks.
Its very important to understand that not all travel insurance policies cover preexisting conditions. Thats why people with diabetes have to look very carefully for one that does. The most important rule always is to read all the fine print.
Diabetes travel insurance coverage
A preexisting condition refers to any health issue you were diagnosed with before purchasing your travel insurance. For those with diabetes, this includes both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, as well as related complications like neuropathy or retinopathy.
When choosing travel insurance as a diabetic, here’s what’s typically covered:
- Emergency medical care: Hospital treatment, GP visits, and necessary medication while overseas.
- Medical evacuation: If urgent treatment is required, you may be transported back to Australia.
- Trip cancellations: If a diabetes-related emergency forces you to cancel your plans, you could be reimbursed.
- Lost or stolen medication: Coverage for insulin, glucose monitors, or other essential diabetes supplies.
Keep in mind that not all insurers automatically include preexisting conditions, so always disclose your diabetes upfront to make sure you’re fully covered.
Is Medicare or Reciprocal Health Care Enough?
Australia has Reciprocal Health Care Agreements (RHCA) with 11 countries, allowing Australians to access basic public healthcare while travelling. These are: Belgium, Finland, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, the Republic of Ireland, Slovenia. Sweden and the UK.
Its very crucial to know that these agreements don’t replace travel insurance. They won’t cover private healthcare, emergency evacuations, or lost medications. That’s why having a dedicated travel insurance policy is still important.
Related article: Travelling with Insulin: How to Manage Medications and Time Zones.
Travel insurance diabetes type 2 & 1
Wether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, can actually make a difference in your insurance plan. Make sure your insurer has all the little details to your condition to cover you properly.
But what are the differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes?
Type 1 Diabetes
- Autoimmune condition where the body does not produce insulin. It requires daily insulin therapy and careful blood sugar monitoring.
- The immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas
- Typically diagnosed in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood.
- Requires lifelong insulin replacement.
- More prone to severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
- Risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) if insulin levels drop too low.
- Multiple Daily Injections or an insulin pump
Type 2 Diabetes
- Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. It is often managed with lifestyle changes, oral medication, and sometimes insulin.
- More common in adults, but increasing in younger populations.
- Often linked to obesity, poor diet, and sedentary lifestyle.
- Can sometimes be reversed or managed with weight loss and diet changes.
- Higher risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney problems, and nerve damage.
- Insulin may be required in later stages when the pancreas produces less insulin.
When applying, insurers may ask about:
- Your diabetes type
- Your medication
- Your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels
- Any medical devices you use
- Any other health conditions
What to Check Before Signing Up
I can't repeat it often enough: Read the fine print before purchasing travel insurance, to ensure you’re covered for any diabetes-related incidents. We made you a list for the 5 most important things to look for in a travel insurance policy:
✅ Medical Disclosures - Always declare your diabetes. Not doing so could void your policy.
✅ Coverage Limits - Check the medical expense limits—some policies have caps that might not fully cover expensive treatments.
✅ Exclusions - Look for exclusions related to preexisting conditions.
✅ Lost Medication - Ensure your policy covers lost or stolen medication and supplies.
✅ Emergency Contacts - Familiarise yourself with how to contact your insurer in an emergency.
Best Travel Insurance for Diabetics in Australia
Not all Australian insurance companies cover diabetes as a preexisting condition. Some that offer specific cover include:
Cover-More
Cover-More Travel Insurance in Australia offers special policies for people with preexisting conditions like Diabetes. It is very important to disclose your health condition, or you risk being left out-of-pocket should the unexpected occur.
Allianz Australia
Allianz Australia offers travel insurance policies that can provide coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, including diabetes. To determine if your diabetes is covered, you'll need to complete a medical assessment during the application process. Depending on the assessment, an additional premium may be required to include coverage for your condition
Other travel insurance covering diabetes in Australia
It’s always worth checking with your current provider to see if they can add diabetes coverage to your existing policy.
Related article: Australian Airport Rules for Diabetics: Everything You Need to Know!
FAQs
1. Do you have to declare diabetes on travel insurance?
Yes! You always need to disclose preexisting conditions like diabetes when you're applying for a travel insurance. Failing to do so could void your policy.
2. Does type 1 & 2 diabetes increase travel insurance?
Your coverage and costs will vary depending on the insurance provider you choose. To ensure you get the best protection at the most affordable price, take the time to compare different insurers and find the policy that best fits your needs.
3. What if I lose my insulin while travelling?
Many travel insurance policies include coverage for lost or spoiled medication—just be sure to keep your receipts for any claims. The same applies to insulin that becomes ineffective due to heat exposure. To prevent this, always store your medication, including Ozempic, Victoza, Trulicity, and other diabetes injections, in a medical-grade insulin travel case cooler. This ensures your medication stays safe and effective throughout your trip.
Related article: How to Travel With Insulin That Needs to Be Refrigerated or Kept Cool!
4. Does travel insurance cover routine diabetes management?
No, travel insurance generally doesn't cover routine diabetes management which inlcudes:
✅ Blood Sugar Monitoring – Regularly check glucose levels with a meter or CGM.
✅ Medication & Insulin – Take prescribed meds or insulin, ensuring proper storage.
✅ Diet & Nutrition – Balance carbs, avoid sugar spikes, and eat healthy meals.
✅ Exercise – Stay active to improve insulin sensitivity and manage weight.
✅ Foot & Skin Care – Check for cuts, infections, and wear proper footwear.
✅ Medical Check-Ups – Regular GP visits, HbA1c tests, and screenings for complications.
✅ Emergency Preparedness – Carry glucose tablets, snacks, or glucagon for lows.
✅ Mental Health & Stress – Manage stress as it affects blood sugar levels.
5. What Should I Do If My Insulin Pump Breaks While Travelling?
If your insulin pump malfunctions during your trip, act quickly to avoid disruptions to your diabetes management. First, contact your pump manufacturer for troubleshooting or to check if a replacement can be arranged. At the same time, reach out to your travel insurance provider to see if repairs or replacements are covered, particularly for accidental damage.
To stay prepared, always carry backup supplies, such as insulin pens, extra cartridges, and syringes, so you can manually manage your blood sugar levels until the issue is sorted. If travelling within Australia, you may be able to access an emergency replacement through your healthcare provider or NDSS (National Diabetes Services Scheme). If overseas, locate the nearest pharmacy or medical centre for support.
Planning ahead with a travel emergency kit can save you from unnecessary stress and ensure you stay in control of your diabetes wherever you go!
6. Can I Still Get Travel Insurance if I Have Diabetes-Related Complications?
Absolutely! Having diabetes-related complications doesn’t mean you can’t secure travel insurance—but it does mean you need to be upfront about your condition. When applying, fully disclose any complications, such as neuropathy, retinopathy, or cardiovascular issues, to ensure your policy covers potential medical emergencies.
Many Australian travel insurance providers offer specialised policies for travellers with complex medical needs. While coverage options may vary, insurers that cater to pre-existing conditions can tailor a plan to suit your situation. Keep in mind that premiums might be higher, but failing to declare your condition could result in denied claims.
8. What Should I Do in a Medical Emergency Overseas?
If you experience a medical emergency while travelling, contact your travel insurance provider as soon as possible. They can help direct you to the nearest hospital or clinic and may cover treatment costs upfront. Keep your insurance policy number and emergency contact details handy at all times to avoid delays in receiving care.
For serious emergencies, call local emergency services first, then notify your insurer once you’re safe. Planning ahead ensures you get the best medical support without unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
Travelling with diabetes doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right insurance, you can enjoy your trip worry-free. Compare policies, read the fine print, and choose the best cover for your needs. Safe travels!
