Travelling with Bipolar Disorder: What you need to know.

While the thought of a holiday can be exciting, planning a trip may come with extra considerations if you have a bipolar disorder diagnosis – one of the biggest being travel insurance. Finding coverage that takes bipolar disorder into account can sometimes feel complicated.

Travel Directive – Middle East Conflict and Disruption

Ongoing conflict in parts of the Middle East has led to airspace restrictions and operational disruption. We understand that our customers may experience delays, rerouting or cancellations as airlines adjust services. If you’re concerned about how the situation may affect you, we have created this page to provide some useful guidance.

In the first instance, we recommend monitoring updates from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and your travel provider for the latest guidance.

Brain Tumour Awareness Month

March is Brain Tumour Awareness Month; it is a time to shine a light on the experiences of those living with a brain tumours diagnosis. For many people, travel remains an important way to explore new places, enjoying well-deserved breaks, or to reconnect with family. However, travelling when you have a medical condition can feel daunting, with concerns about preparation, safety, and travel insurance. Speaking to your doctor or treating team to agree your travel plans can help with peace of mind.

If you are living with a brain tumour diagnosis, travelling can seem both exciting and daunting. While every situation is different, taking a few extra precautions before you go can help you feel more confident about your travel plans.

Who should I speak to?

One of the most important steps is to talk to your GP or specialist before you book or travel. It is important to ask whether your condition is stable enough for travel, whether any medication adjustments are needed, and if there are activities you should avoid.

Can I get special assistance when travelling with a brain tumour?

Yes, many airlines and airports can provide assistance when you arrive at the airport. This can include help with boarding the aircraft, assistance during the flight, getting off the aircraft, moving through the airport, and transferring between flights making your journey smoother and less stressful.

Checking the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) website can help you find out what assistance you can receive.

Prepare your medication and medical documents

Planning your medication in advance can make your trip feel more relaxed. Make sure you have enough for your entire trip, plus a little extra in case of delays. Keeping medication in your hand luggage, carrying a prescription copy, and having a doctor’s letter explaining your medication and confirmation that you are fit to fly can help your journey go smoothly.

What else can I do?

• Keep medication in your hand luggage
• Bring a copy of your prescription
• Carry a doctor’s letter explaining your medication
• Get a fit to fly letter from your GP or treating team
• Check ahead if any of your medications require documentation for airport security

Please see our essential guide for travelling safely with a medical condition.

Frequently asked questions about travelling after a brain tumour diagnosis:

Can you travel after treatment for a brain tumour?

Many people can travel after treatment, but it can depend on your individual circumstances. Your doctor is the best person to advise when it is safe to travel as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and ongoing treatment can all affect recovery time.

Are there destinations that are better for travellers with medical conditions?

Depending on your health and mobility, some destinations may be more suitable with:

• Good access to healthcare
• A slower pace of travel
• Short-haul flights
• Accessible accommodation
• Reliable transport

Choosing destinations that match your energy and interests can help make your trip more comfortable and memorable.

Practical Travel Tips for Health & Wellbeing

Here are some helpful, easy‑to‑follow considerations for travelling after a brain tumour diagnosis — beyond just medication management (for more context, see our full Travelling with Cancer FAQ Read our Travelling with Cancer FAQ for more tips and guidance):

• Protect your skin from the sun: Some cancer treatments can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight or heat, so use high SPF sunscreen, wear a wide‑brimmed hat and UV sunglasses, and seek shade during the peak sun hours. Ask your doctor if any specific sun precautions are needed for you.
• Stay hydrated: Carry a bottle of water with you and sip regularly — especially in hot weather or after flights — to help maintain energy and regulate body temperature.
• Snacks and gentle eating: Eating little and often can help manage nausea or low appetite, and sticking to foods you usually tolerate well can reduce the risk of digestive upset.
• Protect against infections: Good hygiene — such as washing hands regularly and avoiding ice or unbottled water where hygiene standards differ — can help reduce the risk of infections if your immune system is lower. It is also advisable to keep some hand sanitiser in your bag or pocket, this is useful if you can’t get access to wash your hands properly when out and about.
• Pace your activities: Fatigue is common during and after treatment. Plan rest breaks, schedule activities when you feel most energetic, and don’t feel pressured to do everything in one day.

For a more detailed Q&A style guide on travelling with cancer — including insurance questions, vaccination advice, and what to declare when purchasing travel insurance — you can read our full FAQ on Travelling with Cancer.

Will Insurancewith cover my condition?

At Insurancewith, we offer a personalised approach to travel insurance with our in-house medical screening system, designed to support people with cancer or other health conditions. This allows us to tailor cover to your circumstances by considering details such as the stage and severity of your condition and how it personally affects you.

Having the right cover in place means you can focus on enjoying your trip, knowing support is available if you need it.

Cover levels may vary depending on the policy you choose. For full details of the protection available, please get a quote or refer to our policy documents.

Celebrating Fiona Macrae: MGA Professional of the Year

We are thrilled to announce that our founder, Fiona Macrae, has been named MGA Professional of the Year at this year’s Women in Insurance Awards. This prestigious accolade recognises women excelling in professional, operational, or management roles within managing general agents, celebrating the leadership, innovation, and dedication required to make a real impact in the insurance industry.

Travelling with Depression – Finding Light in New Horizons

For many, travelling is an exciting adventure, filled with new experiences, cultures, and perspectives. But for those struggling with depression, the idea of navigating unfamiliar places can feel daunting. The world may seem overwhelming, and the energy required to plan and embark on a trip might feel out of reach. However, with careful preparation and self-compassion, travelling can offer moments of respite, self-discovery, and even healing.