Sick on holiday – what are the options for getting home?

Finding yourself in hospital in a foreign country can quickly turn a dream holiday into a nightmare. Whether you’re on a business trip or a family break, being unwell abroad is distressing. When the worst happens, most people want to return home as soon as it’s safe to do so.

In this article, our Chief Medical Officer, Dr Lee Collier, explains the options available to return to the UK (or your home country). These include medical flights, commercial escorts, and road repatriation. We’ll help you understand which solution is safest, fastest, and most appropriate for each case.

Air Ambulance

Air ambulances are often the first thought for long-distance transfers. Helicopters work well for short hops to hospital, but they’re not suited for crossing borders. Fixed-wing air ambulances, like small private propeller or jet aircraft, are better for international journeys. These aircraft fly higher and faster—ideal for reaching home quickly and safely.

SkyCare operates a modern Pilatus PC-12 air ambulance, equipped with intensive care equipment and staffed by NHS-trained teams. We care for adults, children, and even newborns during these flights. It’s as close to a mobile hospital as you can get in the air.

Yes, private air ambulances are costly. But you’re not just hiring a flight—you’re choosing full control, clinical oversight, and flexibility. The medical team can adapt to changes in the patient’s condition mid-flight, something a commercial airline simply can’t offer.

Find out more about our Air Ambulance Service

Commercial Medical Escort (CME)

For stable patients, a Commercial Medical Escort offers a cost-effective alternative. These journeys use regular airlines like British Airways or EasyJet. A nurse, paramedic, or doctor travels alongside the patient to ensure safety and provide care en route.

CME is often the best option for very long distances. It’s more affordable than chartering an entire aircraft, though there are some limitations. Airlines may delay or cancel flights, and medical staff must follow strict airline rules. For example, oxygen or stretchers need prior approval.

SkyCare arranges CME flights with experienced clinicians and a specialist travel agent. We handle all coordination—from airline approval to booking accessible seating. If needed, we can even arrange stretcher support for patients unable to sit upright.

Learn about our Commercial Medical Escort Service

Long-Distance Road Repatriation

Sometimes the safest way home is by road. SkyCare has spent over a decade repatriating patients by ambulance from all over Europe.

Road repatriation is often more affordable than flying, especially for non-urgent cases. We use High Dependency ambulances equipped with advanced monitoring tools. Each journey is supported by an experienced medical crew who can manage care from door to door.

Although road journeys take longer, we make them comfortable. We plan optimal routes with rest stops, adapt to the patient’s needs, and avoid the stress of airports entirely.

Find out more about Road Repatriation

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right medical repatriation provider can feel overwhelming. Here are some essential questions to ask before deciding:

• Who will carry out the transfer, and what are their qualifications?
• What medical equipment and medications will be available onboard?
• Will the medical team speak English fluently?
• Is the provider a direct operator or just a broker?
• Do they have links with UK hospitals to arrange admission?
• What support is in place if something goes wrong during transit?

SkyCare Repatriation has many years’ experience in patient transfers. We don’t just arrange travel—we manage it clinically, from departure to arrival. Whether it’s a critical ICU case or a stable patient needing care on a long journey, we’re ready to help.

Message us on WhatsApp or contact us here to get started.