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Pregnancy Travel Insurance

22/05/2025

Lauren McAfee Insurance Editor and Writer

Last Updated: 22 May 2025
Read time: 5 minutes

Written by: Lauren McAfee
Insurance Writer and Editor

Reviewed by: Mark McKeown

Written in line with our Editorial Guidelines

Does travel insurance cover pregnancy?

Yes, most travel insurance providers will cover pregnant people while travelling abroad. However, limits, exclusions and terms of the coverage will vary depending on the insurer you choose. 

This is why shopping around to compare travel insurance for pregnancy is so important. Each insurer will outline exactly what protection they include, and at what cost. 

At Quotezone, we help you compare these policies side by side, so you can make an informed choice that gives you the peace of mind you need during this stressful time.

What parts of pregnancy can travel insurance cover?

What is covered?

The medical protection on travel insurance for pregnant women is designed to cover the cost of unexpected emergency treatments and care. So, generally, you will only be covered for complications stemming from your pregnancy. 

Of course, the exact coverage and claim limits will be specific to the policy and insurer you choose. However, common examples of what could be covered include:

  • Pregnancy cancellation or curtailment – Cancelling or delaying your travels or return home because of pregnancy complications.
  • Unexpected births – Delivering your baby at full term is not considered an emergency, so it won’t be covered. However, premature births and emergency C-sections are.
  • Medical conditions stemming from your pregnancy – Treatment for pregnancy related conditions like toxaemia, pre-eclampsia or miscarriage.
  • Emergency repatriation – If you need to be returned to the UK for emergencies or specialist medical care.
  • Your child, if they are born abroad – Some insurers will offer coverage for newborns under their mother’s policy.

What isn’t covered?

Even travel insurance covering pregnancy related concerns will have limits. These will be clearly outlined in the policy details, so you can be sure what you are getting before you buy. Common exclusions are:

  • Routine pregnancy care – Routine check-ups and prenatal care are not covered while abroad unless it is an emergency.
  • Childbirth near term – Insurers will only cover emergency births or if your birth is considered premature (usually if you deliver over 8 weeks early). 
  • Travelling against the advice of a medical professional – If a doctor or midwife has advised you not to travel, no insurer is likely to offer you coverage. 
  • If you are refused boarding – If an airline, cruise line or ferry company refuses to board you. Researching their policies around transporting pregnant travellers is your responsibility. 
  • Changing your mind – If you are still fit to travel but decide not to go, this is not covered. 
  • Undisclosed medical conditions – This includes any medical condition you are aware of at the time of buying your insurance, whether it is related to your pregnancy or not.

Is pregnancy considered a medical condition for travel insurance?

No, pregnancy is not treated the same as pre-existing medical conditions when it comes to travel insurance with pregnancy cover. This means you will not need to take out a specialist travel policy that covers existing medical conditions, and you could avoid the higher premiums that often come with these policies. 

Do you have to declare pregnancy on travel insurance?

This depends on the guidelines of the insurer you choose. Some might only require you to declare it if you are travelling late in your pregnancy, while others only need you to declare any medical conditions you are suffering from because of your pregnancy. 

It’s generally a good idea to be as honest and transparent as possible with your travel insurer when it comes to your pregnancy. If you have an existing annual travel policy, it could be a good idea to inform the insurer of your change in circumstances and find out their policies on pregnancy before you travel. 

Other considerations when travelling while pregnant

1. Speak to a medical professional before travelling

Your doctor or midwife can advise on any risks or complications you might face when travelling, and how you can prepare for these.

3. Flying while pregnant

The NHS gives official advice for flying while pregnant. However, no two pregnancies are the same, so getting the all-clear from your doctor or midwife is essential.

5. Holiday activities

Activities that put you and your pregnancy at risk might not be covered by your insurance. Things like water sports, skiing, or horse riding typically come under this category.

7. Transport provider policies 

Some airlines won’t carry passengers who are over 37 weeks pregnant. No matter how you are travelling, it is essential to check individual company policies and how they affect your plans.

2. Research your destination 

Depending on where you travel, you should research and seek advice on any additional vaccines you could benefit from. Don’t visit countries where the FCDO recommends against travelling. For example, countries where there are risks from the Zika virus or other mosquito-borne diseases.

4. Food and drink abroad

Poisoning or illness from food or water can turn serious quickly if you are pregnant. Always be aware of what foods to avoid in countries where you are unfamiliar with ingredients or food hygiene standards.

6. Documents you might need

Of course, it’s important to have details like the local emergency number, your insurance documents, and your doctor’s number to hand. However, you should also bring any necessary medical notes that could help treat you in the event of an emergency, as well as a fit-to-fly declaration if you need it for your flight.

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Pregnancy travel insurance FAQS

Do I need a doctor’s note for pregnancy travel insurance?

Typically, no, unless you are late in your pregnancy (usually in the third trimester) or have experienced complications during your pregnancy.

Can I get travel insurance for pregnancy up to 36 weeks?

While each insurer has its own limits, there will be providers who offer travel cover for pregnancy before 36 weeks. After this point, you may struggle to find insurers as your risk of giving birth while abroad is higher. 

Do I need travel insurance if I’m pregnant?

No one is obliged to take out holiday insurance. However, with the increased risk of medical complications during pregnancy, you could benefit more than most from this protection. Without insurance, you would have to cover medical costs or hospital stays alone. And these could leave you in serious financial trouble. 

Do I need pregnancy travel insurance if I have a GHIC card?

While it’s not compulsory, it is strongly recommended that pregnant people take out travel insurance alongside their EHIC and GHIC cover. These cards only cover state-provided healthcare, which isn’t always free. And, unlike travel insurance, they don’t protect against lost luggage or cancellation risks. 

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