Pregnancy travel insurance - here's what to know before you book
Relish the excitement of your travel plans with your blossoming baby bump by securing the right cover.
Enjoying a journey with a little one on the way? The thrill of travel is irresistible, but let’s face it – the logistics can pile up faster than you can say ‘jetlag’, and Mama – you’ve got enough on your plate. If your adventurous side still calls, despite having a baby on board, navigating the realm of travel insurance becomes a whole new adventure. Fear not, we’ve got everything you need to know about travel insurance when you’re pregnant right here.
Key things to consider before buying coverage
When you’re planning your trip with a baby on board, there are some things you’ll need to consider straight-up.
How far along are you?
We know you’ve heard the question a million times, but here’s where it really counts. When it comes to pregnancy and travel insurance, most insurers graciously cover single, uncomplicated pregnancies following natural conception. However, there’s a catch – the coverage window varies.
The best time to travel is within your second trimester.
Some providers extend their umbrella up to 30 weeks, while others gently fold it at 23 to 26 weeks pregnant. Most importantly, remember – the stork won’t deliver coverage for birth-related costs or newborn expenses. So, if you can, keep your window wide and travel within the sweet spot (more on that later).
Is pregnancy considered a ‘pre-existing medical condition’?
Thankfully, pregnancy isn’t generally considered a pre-existing medical condition when you’re obtaining travel insurance. If you’re under 26 weeks (at the time of travel) with just one bub on board, you may not need to declare it at all. However, honesty is key, especially if you’re dealing with a more complex pregnancy. Disclose the details to your insurer to make sure you’re covered.
Be prepared with pregnancy travel insurance for your safety.
What to look for in a pregnancy travel insurance policy
It’s time to dig into the details. Here’s what you’ll need to keep an eye out for in your travel insurance to make sure you and your bump have a smooth ride.
Travelling while pregnant can be a fulfilling experience. (Image: Josh Bean)
The benefits buffet
Navigating pregnancy with travel insurance is like entering an extensive buffet – enticing, filled with numerous options, and just a tad overwhelming. Yet, the crucial factor lies in the details. Delve into the fine print to ensure you grasp the details of the nitty gritty.
Tick off the benefits of your pregnancy coverage.
If you identify any gaps, ask your insurer about tailored policy add-ons for a personalised experience. Alternatively, explore other options that cater specifically to your unique pregnancy needs.
- Make sure your policy covers (on top of standard travel insurance staples):
- Unforeseen pregnancy challenges.
- Emergency medical coverage abroad: including expenses for unexpected illnesses, complications, or severe injuries related to your pregnancy.
- Trip cancellation protection.
- Around-the-clock travel assistance.
Make sure that your policy covers unexpected pregnancy challenges.
Cancellation considerations
If there’s ever a time when last-minute travel plans can swiftly change, it’s during pregnancy. Your pregnancy might even be a time when you consider locking in your coverage before finalising your booking. Locking in coverage ensures that in the event of unexpected pregnancy complications leading to a trip cancellation, you’re covered – no strings attached.
Consider last-minute travel changes especially when you’re travelling with a child.
Find out what’s excluded
Navigate the exclusion territory carefully. Be aware that certain conditions, like conception through IVF, expecting multiples, or planning travel after the approved gestational weeks, may lead to limited or no coverage.
Common exclusions:
- Conception through assisted reproduction (IVF).
- Seeking reimbursement for childbirth or newborn healthcare expenses if you give birth on your trip.
- Travelling against medical advice from your doctor.
- Expecting twins (or more!).
- Planning travel beyond the approved weeks according to your provider.
- Dealing with pregnancy complications (previous miscarriages or premature labour, gestational diabetes etc.) – disclose them to avoid issues.
- Routine pregnancy check-ups abroad.
Remember, some exclusions can be lifted with premium payments or a medical assessment.
Trimester travel tactics: A travel roadmap for every stage
When planning your travels, take your pregnancy stage into account for a seamlessly enjoyable journey tailored to each trimester.
First-trimester trail
The first 12 weeks are the opening act of your pregnancy journey. While generally safe for travel, be aware that morning sickness might steal the show. Consider scheduling your adventures post-week 12 to dodge any queasy interludes.
You may experience morning sickness during your first trimester.
Second-trimester bliss
The perfect time for a babymoon, your second trimester offers you a golden ticket to travel bliss, sans complications. Chat to your doctor, pack your bags, and make the most of this worry-free window.
Always check with your doctor for any pregnancy reminders before travelling. (Image: Lucas Favre)
Third-trimester reality check
Some airlines may give side-eye glances if you’re deep into the third trimester, and many travel insurance providers will cap their coverage around the 26-week mark. If leisure is the plan, think twice before boarding that flight.
It’s best to travel with a companion.
As you embark on this exciting journey with a baby on board, remember that a well-informed approach to travel insurance during pregnancy is your ticket to peace of mind. From navigating coverage windows to crafting your personalised pregnancy passport and considering trimester-specific tactics, your wanderlust need not be put on hold. Embrace the adventure, plan wisely, and savour every moment of this unique chapter in your globetrotting story. Safe travels, mama!
Travelling during pregnancy can be your first milestone as a family.
LEAVE YOUR COMMENT