Travel Insurance for Broken Bones
Breaking a bone can be difficult without the added worry of it happening just before a planned trip or holiday. It's understandable to feel apprehensive about going away with a broken bone, however, arranging travel insurance can help ease some worry - especially if you're advised not to travel by a GP.
Holiday Extras travel insurance policies come with protection for things like emergency medical care, cancellations and lost baggage. Our bronze, silver and gold cover levels give you the flexibility to choose the protection that suits your trip, so you can travel with confidence.
Is a broken bone classed as a pre-existing medical condition?
Yes, a broken bone is classed as a pre-existing medical condition. It can sometimes be hard to know whether to declare a broken bone when taking out insurance, as fractures can vary in their severity. For some, a break may heal quickly and cause minimal disruption, while for others, it can lead to longer-term complications or require ongoing treatment.
You should always declare a condition on your travel insurance if you have received a diagnosis, a prescription, a change in treatment or your condition has not remained stable in the period leading up to your policy start date.
What if I choose not to declare a broken bone?
A broken bone must always be declared if the break occurred within 2 years, whether it is fully healed or not. If any conditions are not declared correctly, you will be responsible for covering any medical costs that arise during your trip.
In the same way, if you require treatment for a condition you haven't told us about, your policy may be invalid and you won't be able to make a claim.
What are the benefits of buying a Holiday Extras insurance policy?
- Flexible cover levels - Pick from bronze, silver, or gold policies to suit your trip plans and budget, whether you're going all out, or keeping things simple.
- Support for pre-existing conditions - Most medical conditions are considered, with a quick and easy online screening process.
- Medical support abroad, made easy - Every policy includes free access to AnywhereGP, a 24/7 virtual medical support service for non-urgent help while you're away.
- Extra cover, if you want it - Add-ons are available for things like gadget protection, winter sports, or extreme activities, so you can tailor your policy to your plans.
- Award-winning protection - We've been voted Best Insurance Provider for 16 years in a row.
What our customers are saying about us
Can I fly with a broken bone?
Yes, you can fly with a broken bone, provided your doctor has said you are fit to fly. There are some important factors to think about:
- Recently fitted cast – If you've had a cast applied within the last 24–48 hours, some airlines may not allow you to fly due to the risk of blood clots.
- Split casts for swelling – Doctors may recommend splitting the cast to allow for swelling. You may need to have it resealed at your destination, so plan for possible medical costs.
- Seating arrangements – You might need extra space or an additional seat, depending on the length of your flight. Always check with your airline in advance and avoid emergency exit rows.
- Get in touch with your doctor and airline – Check with your doctor that you are fit to fly and that it is safe for you to take your planned journey. Some airlines will ask you for a fit-to-fly letter, so find out from them if you need this before you travel.
To read more about flying with a broken bone, check out our Guide to travelling with a broken leg.
AnywhereGP: 24/7 Medical Help
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Included FREE with every Holiday Extras travel insurance policy, it provides fast, reliable medical support for everything from minor illnesses to urgent concerns, keeping you supported along the way.
Looking for information regarding a different condition?
It's important to get the right level of cover for your trip, especially when travelling with pre-existing medical conditions. We believe everyone deserves a hassle-free holiday. That's why we consider most medical conditions.
To find out more, visit our page dedicated to travelling with medical conditions.
Let us answer your questions
Do I need a fit-to-fly certificate for a broken arm?
You will likely need a fit-to-fly certificate for a broken bone if you have had a cast fitted within 48 hours. However, the rules can vary between airlines and depend on how long your flight is too. To be sure, it's always best to consult your doctor and get in touch with your airline prior to flying.
Do I need to declare a broken bone on travel insurance?
You should always declare a broken bone when taking out travel insurance. Especially if you have recently received treatment for it and are taking prescribed medication. Failing to declare a broken bone can make your policy invalid, leaving you without cover.
What is the difference between a fracture and a broken bone?
There isn't actually any difference between a broken bone and a fractured bone. Fracture is more commonly used as a medical term, however, any kind of 'crack' in the bone is classed as a break.
Holiday Extras Travel Insurance is sold and administered by Holiday Extras Cover Limited, registered office address: Ashford Road, Newingreen, Hythe, Kent CT21 4JF.
Holiday Extras Cover Limited is an insurance intermediary authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, registration number 828848. You can check this on the Financial Services Register by visiting: http://register.fca.org.uk
Holiday Extras™ is a Trading Name of Holiday Extras Cover Limited. The insurance is underwritten by Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited. Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited is a company incorporated in England and Wales with company number 13436330 and whose registered office address is 1 Fen Court, London, United Kingdom, EC3M 5BN.
Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Firm Reference Number 955859. You can check this on the Financial Services Register by visiting: http://register.fca.org.uk