Travel insurance is essential for anyone with a heart condition, ensuring you are covered for medical emergencies, cancellations, and repatriation if needed. The cost of travel insurance varies depending on factors like the severity of your condition, destination, and age. This guide will help you understand how much travel insurance costs for heart conditions and how to find the best policy.
Travel insurance
If you have an upcoming trip or need an annual multi-trip policy, we can provide your travel insurance. Get a quote in minutes and purchase online if you’re happy. Our expert team is also available to discuss a policy on the phone.
Can you get travel insurance with a heart condition?
Yes, many insurers offer policies specifically designed for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. As long as your doctor confirms you are fit to travel, you can obtain cover. It’s crucial to disclose all medical conditions to avoid invalidating your policy.
What does travel insurance cover for heart conditions?
A good travel insurance policy should include:
- Emergency medical treatment – Covers hospital stays, doctor visits, and prescription medications.
- Repatriation costs – If your condition worsens and you need to return home early.
- Trip cancellation and curtailment – Covers losses if your condition forces you to cancel or cut short your trip.
- Lost or delayed baggage – Protection against lost medication or essential travel items.
- Personal liability – Covers accidental injury or property damage caused to others.
How much does travel insurance cost with a heart condition?
The cost of travel insurance varies based on:
- The severity of your condition – More serious conditions typically lead to higher premiums.
- Recent medical history – If you have had recent hospital visits, your insurance may be more expensive.
- Age and general health – Older travellers or those with additional medical conditions may pay more.
- Destination – Travel to countries with high healthcare costs (e.g., the USA) results in higher premiums.
How to get the best price on travel insurance
To save money on travel insurance with a heart condition:
- Compare different providers – Use comparison sites to find competitive rates.
- Look for specialist medical insurers – Companies like Staysure and Freedom Travel Insurance focus on pre-existing conditions.
- Consider single-trip vs. annual cover – If you travel frequently, an annual policy may be more cost-effective.
- Increase your voluntary excess – A higher excess can lower your premium, but make sure it’s affordable if you need to claim.
Which heart conditions can be covered?
Most insurers cover a wide range of heart conditions, including:
- Angina
- Atrial fibrillation
- Cardiomyopathy
- Congenital heart disease
- Heart attack history
- Heart bypass surgery
- Pacemakers and stents
You must declare all medical conditions when applying for insurance. Failure to do so may result in denied claims.
What medical questions will insurers ask?
When applying for travel insurance, expect questions like:
- When was your last heart-related hospital visit?
- Are you currently taking medication for your condition?
- Have you had any heart-related procedures or surgeries?
- Can you walk a short distance without experiencing chest pain or breathlessness?
Answering accurately ensures you get a policy tailored to your health needs.
Travel tips for people with heart conditions
To travel safely with a heart condition:
- Consult your doctor – Ensure you are fit to fly and travel.
- Pack extra medication – Bring enough for your trip, plus extras in case of delays.
- Carry medical documents – Have a doctor’s letter listing your condition and medications.
- Avoid extreme climates – Very hot or cold weather can affect heart conditions.
- Know emergency contacts – Research local hospitals and emergency numbers for your destination.
Does GHIC or EHIC cover heart conditions abroad?
The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) and European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provide access to state-funded healthcare in some countries but do not cover:
- Private healthcare
- Repatriation
- Cancellations or lost medication
Travel insurance is still necessary to ensure you’re fully covered.
Summary
Travel insurance for heart conditions is available, but costs vary depending on your health, destination, and policy type. By comparing providers, being honest about your condition, and following travel precautions, you can find an affordable policy that keeps you protected while travelling. Always check the policy details to ensure your condition is fully covered before booking your trip.
