Quick summary for busy readers
- Having a disability doesn't necessarily prevent you from getting travel insurance, but you may need to disclose any medical conditions or circumstances that could affect your trip.
- Don't assume your disability or related medical conditions are automatically covered. Some insurers may require you to complete a medical assessment or agree to provide cover for certain pre-existing conditions.
- Coverage can vary between insurers, so it's important to compare policies and check whether your specific medical needs are covered before purchasing.
- Plan ahead before travelling: speak with your doctor about whether you're fit to travel and make sure you have enough medication and any essential medical supplies for your trip.
- Check accessibility before you go. Research your destination, accommodation, transport and planned activities to make sure they meet your needs.
- Consider your equipment and belongings. If you're travelling with a wheelchair, mobility aid or other essential equipment, check whether your travel insurance provides cover for loss, theft or damage.
- Arrange assistance in advance where possible, particularly for flights, airport transfers and accommodation, and make sure you understand what support will be available during your trip.
- Always read the PDS carefully and contact the insurer directly if you're unsure whether your disability, medical condition, equipment or specific travel needs are covered.
Travel Insurance and Disability
Travelling with a disability can come with a few extra challenges, but it shouldn't stop you from exploring the world. With a little extra planning, research and preparation, there are plenty of ways to make your holiday more accessible and enjoyable.
Ideally, travelling with your mobility aid, medical equipment or other support needs should be as stress-free as possible. But anyone who has navigated a busy airport, long-haul flight or unfamiliar destination knows that travel doesn't always go to plan. Delays, queues and a lack of accessible facilities can quickly make a trip more complicated.
Before you put your travel plans on hold, take a pause. With the right preparation, travelling with a disability can be easier than you might think.
Our guide covers everything from choosing an accessible destination and booking suitable accommodation to arranging assistance, travelling with mobility equipment and understanding how travel insurance may help if something goes wrong.
So whether you're planning an action-packed adventure, a cruise or a relaxing getaway, here's what you need to know before you go.
Travel destinations for those with mobility issues
Travelling can sometimes take a little more planning when you have mobility requirements, but don't let that put a stop to your destination dreams.
Accessibility can vary significantly between countries, cities and even individual hotels or attractions, so doing your research before booking is important. Look beyond general claims that somewhere is "accessible" and check whether the specific facilities meet your individual needs.
When researching a destination, consider:
- Transport: Are accessible taxis, trains and public transport available?
- Accommodation: Does the property offer step-free access, accessible bathrooms and suitable room layouts?
- Attractions: Are museums, beaches, parks and other attractions accessible?
- Footpaths and terrain: Will cobblestones, steep streets, stairs or uneven ground make getting around difficult?
- Medical facilities: Is appropriate medical care available if you need it?
Don't be afraid to contact accommodation providers and tour operators directly before booking. Asking specific questions about your requirements can help avoid unpleasant surprises when you arrive.
Flying with a disability
Air travel can be one of the more challenging parts of travelling with a disability, particularly when navigating large airports and connecting flights.
The good news is that airlines and airports can provide assistance — but it's usually best to arrange this well before you travel.
Depending on your needs, you may be able to request assistance with:
- getting through the airport
- boarding and disembarking
- moving between connecting flights
- wheelchair assistance
- transporting mobility equipment
- seating arrangements
Contact your airline when booking, or as early as possible before your departure, to discuss your requirements.
Travelling with a wheelchair or mobility aid
If you're travelling with a wheelchair, scooter or other mobility aid, check with your airline before you fly.
They may need information about the size, weight and battery type of the equipment, particularly for powered wheelchairs or mobility devices.
Take photos of your equipment before travelling and consider keeping important information — such as make, model and repair instructions — with you. This can be helpful if your equipment is damaged or delayed.
Booking accessible accommodation
Not every hotel room described as "accessible" will necessarily meet your needs.
Before booking, ask the accommodation provider about the specific features of the room and property. Depending on your requirements, you may want to check:
- whether the room has step-free access
- the width of doorways
- bathroom access and facilities
- whether a shower is walk-in
- the availability of grab rails
- bed height and accessibility
- lift access
- accessible parking
It can also be helpful to ask for photos or measurements rather than relying solely on a general description.
Travelling with medication and medical equipment
If you take regular medication or rely on medical equipment, preparation is particularly important.
Always carry essential medication in your hand luggage rather than checked baggage. Pack enough for your entire trip, plus extra in case your return journey is delayed.
Before travelling, speak with your doctor about your plans and ask whether you need:
- a letter explaining your medical condition or medication
- copies of prescriptions
- advice about travelling with medical equipment
- information about accessing treatment overseas
You should also check whether there are restrictions on taking certain medication into your destination.
Travel insurance and disability
Having a disability doesn't necessarily mean you can't get travel insurance.
However, if you have a medical condition associated with your disability, or other pre-existing medical conditions, you may need to disclose them when purchasing a policy.
Some insurers may automatically cover certain conditions, while others may require a medical assessment or provide cover subject to additional terms.
The important thing is not to assume you're automatically covered.
When comparing travel insurance, check:
- whether your medical conditions are covered
- whether a medical assessment is required
- what exclusions or limits apply
- whether your mobility equipment is covered for loss, theft or damage
- what assistance is available if you need medical help overseas
If you're unsure, contact the insurer directly before purchasing your policy.
What about mobility equipment?
Wheelchairs, mobility scooters and other equipment can be essential to your independence while travelling, so it's important to understand how they are treated under your travel insurance policy.
Policies can differ significantly when it comes to:
- loss or theft
- accidental damage
- individual item limits
- equipment damaged while being transported
- hire costs for replacement equipment
Check the policy wording carefully and make sure you understand any limits that may apply. If your equipment is particularly valuable, you may also need to consider whether additional cover is available.
Tips for travelling with a disability
A little forward planning can go a long way towards making your trip smoother.
Book assistance early
Don't wait until you arrive at the airport to arrange help. Contact your airline, airport, cruise line or other transport provider in advance.
Allow extra time
Give yourself extra time for check-in, security, boarding and connections. Travelling can be stressful enough without feeling rushed.
Keep important documents handy
Keep your travel insurance details, medication information, emergency contacts and relevant medical documentation somewhere easy to access.
Research before booking
Check that your accommodation, transport and planned activities are genuinely suitable for your needs.
Have a backup plan
Think about what you would do if your flight is delayed, your mobility equipment is damaged or your accommodation isn't suitable.
Don't let a little extra planning hold you back
Travelling with a disability can require more preparation, but it doesn't mean your holiday has to be any less exciting.
The key is to plan ahead, ask questions and make sure the practical details are taken care of before you leave.
Research your destination, arrange assistance early, check your travel insurance carefully and make sure you have everything you need to travel comfortably and confidently.
With the right preparation, there's a big world out there waiting to be explored.
