HIV is a manageable long-term condition. For most people living with HIV, travelling abroad is much like travelling with any regular medication or health consideration: a little planning goes a long way. Whether you’re heading away for a city break, a beach holiday, work or to visit family, this guide covers the main things to think about before you go – from medication and travel insurance to healthcare access and local laws – so you can feel prepared and focus on enjoying your trip.
Key things to know:
- Most countries have no entry restrictions for people living with HIV who are wanting to visiting on holiday.
- Take enough medication for to cover your whole trip, plus extra in case you are delayed and keep it in your carry-on luggage.
- Keep your medication in your hand luggage, ideally in its original packaging.
- Check how you would access healthcare if you become ill while away.
- Choose a destination where the local laws and customs will help you feel safe and welcome.
Before you book
Destinations: What to consider
Before choosing a destination, it’s a good idea to check the entry restrictions, visa requirements and any official travel advice. If you’re a UK citizen, you’ll find information on the GOV.UK foreign advice travel pages.
Most countries do not restrict entry for people living with HIV.However, some countries still ask people to disclose their HIV status or have restrictions for longer stays. For the most up-to-date information, you can check the global database on HIV-specific travel and residence restrictions, or contact the relevant foreign embassy.
LGBTQIA+ travellers may also want to check local laws and attitudes around sexual orientation and gender identity. GOV.UK foreign travel advice, the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association’s safety guide for travellers, and the Human Dignity Trust’s map of jurisdictions that criminalise LGBTQ+ people all provide useful information to help you make informed choices.
Before you start packing
Before travelling, speak to your GP or HIV specialist. They can help you prepare for your trip and advise on any vaccinations or other preventive medicines you may need. Some vaccines may not be suitable for someone living with HIV, so it is best to get personalised advice.
Make sure you have enough medication to cover your whole trip, with some extra in case of delays. Taking a break from your medication while abroad is not recommended, as this can affect your health and make treatment less effective. Ask your doctor for a signed letter explaining that you need your medication for a long-term health condition. The letter does not need to mention HIV, unless your destination has specific rules that require thisKeep your medication in its original packaging, as some countries may ask to see your prescription.
It is important to arrange travel insurance and check what it covers. Many insurers cover HIV as a pre-existing condition, but you may need to declare it when asked. If you do not, the insurer may not cover a related claim later.
Packing your medication
Pack your HIV medication in your hand luggage rather than checked baggage, in case your suitcase is lost or delayed.
It can also help to set reminders on your phone, especially if you are crossing time zone or your routine will change while you are away. If you are travelling with someone you trust, you could ask them to help you remember too.
Understanding local laws
With time zone differences, jetlag, general travel excitement and changes to routines, it can be helpful to plan for how you will take your medicines on time. You might want to set reminders on your phone or ask a friend or partner to check in with you if you’re travelling together.
Some countries have laws that criminalise accidental HIV transmission, perceived exposure to HIV, or not disclosing HIV status to sexual partners. These laws are discriminatory, but it’s important to know about them, especially if you plan to have sex with new partners while abroad. The HIV Justice Network has a map of global HIV criminalisation laws.
Some travellers may need to do extra checks before they go. For example,some countries refuse entry to sex workers, and previous criminal charges may affect visa or entry requirements. In some places, items such as condoms have been used as a reason to suspect sex work.. If this many affect you, it is worth checking the local laws and entry rules for your destination.
Enjoy your trip!
Travel is a wonderful part of living well with HIV – whether that means rest, adventure, work, family or something else entirely. With a little preparation, you can feel confident, informed and ready to enjoy your time away. Have an amazing trip, and bring us back some sunshine!
More about support to live well
London HIV Services Finder: When you’re back in London, you can use the London HIV Services Finder to quickly find services and support for people living with HIV across London. It includes information on support organisations, healthcare services, community groups, and more, all in one place.
