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Heart disease travel insurance

When you live with heart disease, taking regular holidays is a great way to relax and minimise stress. It’s important, however, to plan ahead carefully when you are going to be away from home.

First and foremost, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your heart disease and how it affects you before booking any trips . They will be able to confirm that you are well enough to go away. You can also discuss the things you should and shouldn’t be doing during your holiday, such as any activities you may want to participate in.

In many cases, having heart disease is no barrier to an enjoyable and fulfilling breakaway. However, being aware of how to take care of yourself while away is the best way to ensure your holiday is a relaxing getaway you need.

What is heart disease?

The term ‘heart disease’ is often used interchangeably with ‘cardiovascular disease’ and generally refers to conditions that involve or cause narrowed or blocked blood vessels. When fatty deposits build up in the arteries, blood flow is restricted and cannot travel around the body as it should. This impaired blood flow can in turn lead to further problems such as heart attacks , heart failure , angina , and strokes .

As a catch-all term, heart disease also covers heart rhythm problems and defects, such as arrhythmias and atrial fibrillation , as well as the things that cause them.

Please note, when looking for heart disease insurance, you must declare all of the conditions you have so that you are properly insured.

As it covers so many conditions, heart disease is very common. In the UK alone, the British Heart Foundation (BHF) estimates that there are approximately 7 million people living with a form of heart disease. Thankfully, modern medicine has helped to make them easier to live with; the annual number of heart disease-related deaths has fallen by more than half since the BHF was established in 1961.

What risk factors are associated with heart disease?

The risk factors for heart disease are many and complex; there can often be a mix of factors involved, including:

• Family history of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks , strokes , angina , heart failure , hypertension , cardiomyopathy , and peripheral vascular disease
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol levels
• Unhealthy diet
• Physical inactivity
• Alcohol intake

Many things that increase the likelihood of developing heart disease are associated with lifestyle. Of these, the World Health Organisation (WHO) lists an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, smoking, and drinking too much alcohol as the ones linked to the biggest risk.

Why do I need specialist travel insurance for heart disease?

Even if your condition is under control and you feel well, it’s important to remember that heart disease can be unpredictable. Part of the joy of travel is being introduced to new places and experiences, but when you have heart disease, it is vital to take account of the impact this could potentially have on your health.

This is where heart disease travel insurance comes in. A travel insurance policy for heart disease should cover all of the conditions that relate to your heart and circulation, so should your health take an unexpected turn for the worse while you’re away, you will be cushioned from the costs of your medical treatment. Health care around the world, particularly emergency treatment, often comes with very high costs attached.

Without Heart Disease insurance in place, an extended stay in an overseas hospital can be incredibly expensive. What’s more, without heart disease travel insurance in place, you would also have to fund alternative travel arrangements to get you home, if you were unable to travel back as you had planned.

You may have already found that many standard travel insurance companies refuse to offer cover due to your heart disease, but that doesn’t mean you have to travel uninsured. A medical travel insurance provider, like Free Spirit, is best-placed to offer travel insurance to people of any age who have pre-existing health conditions , such as heart disease.

Our travel insurance for heart disease includes the essential aspects of cover you need , such as your medication and medical aids should they get lost or damaged. One of the most important protections we offer is cancellation cover, which ensures you don’t lose out financially on flights and/or accommodation costs if you have to cancel your trip in the run-up to your departure date due to your health*.  Having this arranged nice and early should give you peace of mind as you look forward to your holiday.

* Cover is subject to the terms, conditions, and limits of the Insurance Policy .

How can I get heart disease travel insurance?

It’s easy to get a quote for heart disease travel insurance with us. If you’d prefer to apply online, our fully interactive website includes medical screening, or if you’d rather talk to someone over the phone, our friendly travel insurance specialists are available on 02392 419 080. 

Whatever way you prefer to apply for travel insurance for heart disease, we will need to ask you some questions about your conditions and the way in which these affect you to determine your premium. The questions you are asked may vary depending on your personal circumstances, but some of the questions you may expect to be asked include:

• Have you ever had a heart bypass, an angioplasty, or a coronary stent?
• Have you ever been a smoker?
• How many (if any) heart attacks have you had?
• Do you suffer from atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat)?
• Can you always walk 200yds on the flat with no chest pain or tightness or breathlessness?

We like to do things thoroughly at Free Spirit, so we may well have other questions to ask. This just helps us ensure you get the right travel insurance for your heart disease. Please try to give us as much information about your heart disease as possible, so that we can make sure you’re properly covered for your upcoming trip.

If you’d like to know more about our heart disease insurance, or have any questions whilst getting a quote on our website, please don’t hesitate to call us. For a wealth of extra information, you can also take a look at our guide to travelling with heart conditions . Or, if you have a specific query, you can ask the Free Spirit Team , our resident expert in medical travel insurance.

Heart disease travel tips

Living with a heart condition can be challenging but enjoying a relaxing holiday can help – regardless of whether you’ve just been diagnosed or have been living with it for some time.

Here are some useful tips to help you travel safely with heart disease:

1. Choose your destination wisely

Think carefully about where you are going and what you are likely to do when you get there. A trip to Athens, for example, may involve lots of uphill walking and narrow steps, which can place unnecessary stress on your heart. Similarly, it might be best to avoid destinations that are very hot or very cold, or at a high altitude (over 2,000m).

Consider public transport as well – the easier it is to get around, the less strenuous walking you have to do. This is particularly important in warmer climes, where the heat really can sap your energy.

It’s imperative to think about healthcare provisions, and whether you’ll have easy access to professional help in the event of a medical emergency. Some smaller islands may not have accident and emergency facilities, for example. A little research should help you locate nearby pharmacies and doctors’ surgeries that stock any relevant medication, have a look in advance, and make a list to take with you so that you have the information to hand.

Speaking of medication…

2. Organise your medication in advance

it’s crucial that you sort out any medicines you need for your heart disease before going away for any length of time. If you are entitled to free prescription services here in the UK, the same is unlikely to be true in another country, so make sure you’re stocked up on everything you need before you leave. When you speak to your doctor ahead of booking your trip, ask them to prescribe more than enough medication for the time spent away, and keep a list of prescribed medicines – including all known names – in case you need more in an emergency.

Depending on where you’re headed, you may also need extra permissions to take your heart disease medicine with you overseas. Some countries have very strict rules about the medications they permit visitors to carry, and even some commonly prescribed medicines can be restricted. Our blog about taking medicine on holiday with you summarises the advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and it is also a good idea to speak to your doctor about this.

It’s also a good idea to split your supply of heart disease medication across your luggage, just in case one of your bags was to go missing. Finally, if your heart disease travel insurance provider has a 24-hour medical emergency helpline number we recommend you put it into your mobile phone and make a note of it somewhere before you travel. Couple this with your policy product name and reference, so that it is all ready to hand should you need it – even if your phone breaks or runs out of charge!

3. Long haul flights

Most people with heart disease are able to fly without any trouble, but it’s certainly worth talking to your doctor about it– especially if you’re flying long haul. There are a few precautions you’ll need to take if you’ve been fitted with a pacemaker or ICD (implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) as well. Airport security will need to be made aware, and you’ll be required to take the appropriate documentation.

You may also need to tell your airline ahead of time if you need to take any liquid medicines of over 100ml on board with you. Call them in plenty of time before your departure and they will be able to advise you.

The risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) may also be higher if you have heart disease, so be sure to invest in compression socks and move regularly during your journey. A quick walk once every hour is recommended, and make sure to drink plenty of water.

Don’t forget, you may be able to get extra help at the airport if you need it, including help transporting your luggage and/or early boarding.

4. Arranging the right travel cover

Having travel insurance for heart disease in place is an essential part of your pre-holiday preparations. If you’d like to know more about the heart disease travel insurance Free Spirit can provide, please don’t hesitate to get in touch , or apply online now.

We’re here to help

If you’d like to know more about our heart disease travel insurance, or have any questions whilst getting a quote on our website, head to our frequently asked questions page or get in touch with our friendly customer services team by calling 02392 419 080.

For further details of the cover we provide, take the time to read our insurance policy . You can also view our summary of cover by clicking here .

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Travel Insurance for Heart Conditions

Specialist travel insurance for heart conditions.

Providing your doctor has cleared you for travel, there is no reason why you shouldn’t! The best place to begin is with Specialised Medical Travel Insurance for heart conditions. Using our quick and easy online quote process, you can answer a few questions about your heart condition diagnosis, including any if you have suffered a heart attack or heart failure, and then we’ll compare a range of insurers to get you the perfect deal for Travel Insurance with Heart Condition cover for both cover and cost. We will only show you Travel Insurance policies specific to your heart condition, as well as your age, destination, and duration of your trip, so you can choose the best Travel Insurance tailored to your heart condition. A doctor’s certificate is not required when declaring your medical history and heart condition.

Medical Travel Insurance with Heart Condition Cover

Our panel of specialist medical insurers cover virtually all heart conditions, including Travel Insurance after a heart attack, angina, irregular heartbeat and ischaemic heart disease. If you have a pacemaker fitted or stent procedure, it should also be declared. We work with a panel of expert medical insurers, who provide premium Travel Insurance with heart condition cover. We are confident in our abilities to provide everyone with the means to travel safely, and if we can’t, we’ll signpost you to somewhere we think can cover your specific heart condition.

Our specialist Heart Conditions Travel Insurance offers emergency medical support, available online 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Just Travel Cover provides policies that ensure support is always accessible.

Travel Insurance for Heart Conditions FAQs

Frequently asked questions about Travel Insurance for Heart Conditions .

What is Travel Insurance for heart conditions?

Travel Insurance for heart conditions is a specialised type of insurance designed to meet the needs of individuals travelling with cardiac-related health concerns. Travel Insurance with heart condition cover can include Travel Insurance after a heart attack, heart failure Travel Insurance, and cover for specific heart conditions, depending on what you declare during the medical screening. This insurance covers medical treatment for pre-existing heart conditions while you are away from home, ensuring that you are not left facing financial strain along with your health concerns in the event of an unforeseen medical issue related to your heart condition.

When seeking Travel Insurance with heart conditions, it’s important to declare all aspects of your heart condition. Our panel of insurers specialises in providing cover for travellers with a history of heart-related issues, including those looking for Travel Insurance after a heart attack, or cover for conditions such as angina, arrhythmias, and ischaemic heart disease. By ensuring you have the right Travel Insurance for your heart condition, you can travel with confidence, knowing you’re adequately covered should something not go to plan relating to your heart condition.

What does Travel Insurance for heart conditions cover?

Travel Insurance is crucial for safeguarding against unforeseen medical emergencies abroad, especially for those with pre-existing heart conditions like angina or cardiovascular disease. It’s vital to declare these medical heart conditions to ensure substantial cover for treatments needed while travelling. Having the right Travel Insurance for heart conditions could save you a lot of money when it comes to medical bills should you need treatment abroad for an existing or previous heart condition. Plus, your Travel Insurance for heart conditions will also offer cancellation cover, for example, if you need to cancel your trip for medical reasons relating to your previous/existing heart conditions.

Can I get Travel Insurance for all destinations if I’ve had a heart attack?

It is our aim to provide you with a Travel Insurance quotation wherever you’re going and whatever pre-existing medical condition you have, including if you have previously had a heart attack or have an ongoing heart condition – that’s why we work with specialist providers who cover hundreds of pre-existing medical conditions, including heart conditions and if you have suffered a heart attack. Let us know where you’re going and declare your medical conditions, and we will show you a list of prices and insurance options from insurers that can provide Travel Insurance after a heart attack.

Is Travel Insurance more expensive with angina or heart problems?

If you are wondering how much Travel Insurance is with a heart condition, Travel Insurance may be more expensive if you declare medical conditions as it provides cover for medical bills relating to these conditions rather than just treatment for any new injury/illness you sustain on holiday. The cost of treatment varies by country, and insurers will consider this, along with your age, and trip length, when calculating the premium. When you get a quote online, we compare prices and cover and show you a list of options to choose from, most of the time with a bronze, silver and gold option, depending on the level of cover you need. This way, you can compare heart condition Travel Insurance policies and choose the best option for your travel needs and budget.

Can I get Travel Insurance with a heart condition?

Yes, you can. We understand that some insurers may turn you away for your pre-existing heart conditions, but we are confident we can help you. We work with multiple insurers who specialise in cover for pre-existing medical conditions, including heart problems and heart conditions. Once you declare your heart condition and answer some questions, we will only show you the providers that can provide Travel Insurance with heart condition cover tailored to you.

If I have a heart condition and diabetes can I get Travel Insurance?

We can provide Travel Insurance with cover for hundreds of pre-existing medical conditions, including heart conditions, cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes. So, if you’re diabetic and you have had heart problems, then make sure you declare both medical conditions and answer our medical screening questions as accurately as possible. We will then show you a list of providers offering the cover you need so you can compare polices and choose the best level of cover for you.

Can you get travel insurance that covers my heart condition and my cancer diagnosis?

Finding Travel Insurance when you have/or have had cancer and you have had heart problems can be challenging and expensive. We work with specialist medical insurers to provide you with a choice of high-quality affordable cover for all pre-existing medical conditions. After entering your personal details, you can screen all conditions at the same time, answering a few questions to ensure you have the right medical cover in place. We’ll then show you a list of options to choose from, only showing you prices from providers who can cover both your heart conditions and cancer, should you need any treatment related to your pre-existing medical conditions when you’re on holiday.

Can I get Travel Insurance with cover for heart conditions at any age?

Yes, some of the insurers on our panel provide cover with no upper age limit, are suitable  for all ages and can cover your pre-existing medical conditions too, for example, if you have had a heart attack, a bypass, or you’re living with angina. When getting a quote, it is extremely important to declare all of your pre-existing heart conditions, high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Even if your medical condition is controlled by medication or you suffered a heart attack in the past, it must be declared.

Is there an upper age limit for Travel Insurance if I’ve got heart conditions?

We believe that age and medical history should not be a barrier to travel, and that’s why there’s no upper age limit on some of our policies. All quotes are tailored to you, so when you enter your details and answer the medical questionnaire, we will only show you prices from the insurers that can provide cover for you. Whether you’re over 55 or over 85, we could have a heart condition Travel Insurance policy for you.

Is Travel insurance more expensive after a heart attack?

Travel Insurance to cover heart conditions can be costly and vary depending on where you’re going due to the cost of medical treatment in that particular country. If you are wondering how much Travel Insurance is after a heart attack, it can vary depending on the severity of your heart condition, other pre-existing medical conditions, your age and the destination you are visiting and how long for. 

While some insurers may turn you away, we work with insurers who specialise in covering pre-existing medical conditions, and we will compare prices and policies for you to find the cover you need. It’s important to remember that the price you pay for Travel Insurance is not just based on your medical history and conditions, but also age, destination and trip length, and will also depend on whether you want a single trip or an annual policy.

Will Just Travel Cover compare Travel Insurance for my heart conditions?

Yes, we will compare a range of specialist insurers to ensure we provide you with the best possible policy that covers your heart conditions. You will also usually have a bronze, silver and gold option to choose from where cover limits and excesses vary, along with the price.

Just Travel Cover works closely with our insurers to compare prices and policies. Get a quote and compare prices online. If you need further assistance or would rather speak to us directly, give us a call, and we will advise and direct you through the process.

Travel Insurance for All Kinds of Heart Conditions

• Heart attacks
• Ischaemic Heart Disease
• Atrial Fibrillation (irregular heart beat)
• Heart Murmurs and Heart Valve

How to Get a Quote

• Choose which type of travel insurance you require (single trip or annual)
• Give us some information about your trip (destination and dates)
• Declare your heart conditions along with any other medical conditions you have
• Add any travel insurance options you require, such as Winter Sports
• Choose from a range of travel insurance policies 

We Compare Prices From These Insurers

Click here to download the Policy Wording and Insurance Product Information document for all insurers

What You Need to Know:

To ensure that your heart conditions are covered by your Travel Insurance you must declare your heart condition , as well as any other medical conditions you have. It is important that you answer the medical questions fully and accurately. We don’t need to see a doctor’s certificate. If you have had a heart bypass, a pacemaker fitted or a stent procedure, these will also need to be declared to us to ensure that you are properly covered by your Travel Insurance for heart conditions. Working with a panel of insurers, who are experts in providing travel insurance cover for heart conditions, means that we are able to find five-star Travel Insurance for someone with a heart condition . Don’t worry if you’ve been turned away by other insurers, we are confident that we will be able help you.

24 Hour Emergency Medical Support

All of our specialist Travel Insurance policies for heart conditions include access to a 24 hour emergency medical support service . A support team is available by phone 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, so if you do become ill on holiday and require medical treatment you can be sure that help and support will be available when you need it.

The Importance of Declaring All Medical Conditions

When you buy Travel Insurance it is extremely important to declare all of your pre-existing medical conditions , including any heart conditions, high blood pressure or high cholesterol.  Even if your medical condition is controlled by medication, such as with high blood pressure, or your heart attack was a long time ago, it still needs to be declared when you buy travel insurance to ensure that you are properly covered.

Instant Cancellation Cover

Our online quote and medical screening engine enables you to compare and buy Travel Insurance quickly and easily.

Cancellation cover starts immediately from the moment of purchase for you and all the travel companions you insure under the policy, so you no longer need to worry about the unexpected and focus on getting ready for a trip of a lifetime.

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Heart conditions and travel insurance

Article contents.

Tegan Oldfield

3 August 2023 | Updated 20 October 2023 | 5 minute read

If you’re one of the seven million people in the UK living with a heart condition , it’s important to get the right travel insurance for you.

Here we discuss how to get insurance that covers you and your condition and how to stay safe while travelling.

Is it safe to travel with a heart condition?

You should speak to your doctor to find out if it is safe for you to travel.

For many, going abroad with a heart condition is still safe. Even if you have a pacemaker, cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) device or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) fitted, you should be able to travel.

If you’ve recently had a heart attack or a major operation like heart surgery, you may need a letter from your doctor to prove you are fit to fly or travel.

Can I get travel insurance with a heart condition?

If you’re looking for travel insurance for heart conditions, each insurance provider will have their own rules around what they cover.

If you have pre-existing heart issues, you need to declare this to your insurer. Check whether the policy covers your specific condition and what it will protect you for, including any care you may need while away.

You can use MoneyHelper’s medical directory to find suitable insurance to cover your condition or by you can call 0800 138 7777 (open Monday to Friday 8:00-18:00 excl. bank holidays).

Find out more about travel insurance for medical conditions .

What heart conditions can travel insurance cover?

Insurers that provide cover for pre-existing conditions typically cover:

• atrial fibrillation
• high blood pressure and cholesterol
• heart attack/myocardial infarction
• cardiomyopathy
• blocked or narrowed arteries
• valve disease
• aortic aneurysm
• heart failure
• aortic stenosis

Check your policy book carefully to make sure your condition is covered; if you’re unsure, call your insurer.

What information do I need to tell my insurer? 

You usually need to tell your insurer about any medical condition you’ve had within the last two years. But with a heart condition, you must tell them if you’ve ever had one.

You’ll need to let us know about:

• any problems with your heart
• recent surgeries or procedures you’ve had
• any emergency hospital visits
• the medications you take for your condition

You should always answer these questions truthfully. If you don’t let us know about a medical issue that you later need to claim for, your insurance will be invalidated . 

This means you won’t be covered for the cost of any treatments you need or if you need to cancel a trip as a result of your heart condition.

Remember to inform your insurer about any health changes between buying your policy and going on holiday.

Is travel insurance with heart conditions more expensive?

You might have to pay more for your travel insurance if you have a heart condition.

It’ll depend on the severity of your condition and any other health problems you might have, but the price of your premium will always depend on:

• where you’re going
• how long you’re going for
• what activities you’ve planned

Travelling with a pre-existing heart condition

When travelling with a heart condition, you should bring:

1. A valid Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) , so you can access lower-cost medical care if you’re travelling to Europe. Read our guide on using the GHIC in Europe .

2. Enough medication to last your trip and a few more days’ supply to be safe. Read our guide on travelling with medicine .

3. A Device Identification Card , if you have a heart device fitted (such as a pacemaker), which doctors can refer to if you do need treatment.

4. Recent medical letters, records of treatment you’ve had, and a copy of your electrocardiogram (ECG) , for the same reason as above.

Flying with a heart condition

You can also take a few measures while travelling to your destination to keep your heart healthy.

If you have a heart device, let the security staff at the airport know. Your device shouldn’t be affected if you walk through the security scanners at a reasonable pace, but the staff will need to be careful when using a handheld metal detector.

They should hold it at least 15cm away from your device and avoid repeatedly sweeping over or lingering over it for a while.

You also might be at higher risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on flights, so move around regularly and wear compression socks to help prevent a blood clot.

Speak to your doctor before flying to get specialised advice.

What to avoid on holiday with a heart condition

Specific temperatures and activities on holiday could worsen your heart disease symptoms. You should avoid:

• Very hot or cold locations. Your heart will have to work harder, which can cause medical issues. Try to visit places with a mild climate and avoid using spa facilities like hot tubs, saunas or steam rooms.
• Travel to high altitudes. High altitudes can affect your heart, lungs and blood flow as the air is thinner, and it’s harder to take in the oxygen your body needs. Check with your doctor before travelling to anywhere 2,000 metres above sea level.
• Adventurous sports. Things like diving, skiing or other adventurous activities can strain your body and heart. You’ll need the go-ahead from your doctor to take part, but you should speak to your insurer too, as we might not cover you if you’re going to take part in high-risk activities.   

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What's the Best Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions?

You may think that a pre-existing condition means anything you’re being treated for at the time you purchase your travel insurance. The definition is actually broader than that. Allianz Global Assistance defines a pre-existing medical condition as:

An injury, illness, or medical condition that, within the 120 days prior to and including the purchase date of your policy:

• Caused a person to seek medical examination, diagnosis, care, or treatment by a doctor;
• Presented symptoms; or
• Required a person to take medication prescribed by a doctor (unless the condition or symptoms are controlled by that prescription, and the prescription has not changed).

It’s important to know that the illness, injury, or medical condition does not need to be formally diagnosed in order to be considered a pre-existing medical condition.

Let’s consider a few scenarios:

• Sudden, debilitating pain in an arthritic knee forces you to cancel your planned trekking tour of Iceland. Because you consulted your doctor about knee twinges three months ago, it’s considered a pre-existing condition.
• While sightseeing in Shanghai, you suffer a mild heart attack. Because you were diagnosed with coronary heart disease three weeks before purchasing travel insurance, this is considered a pre-existing condition.
• You were diagnosed with lupus many years ago, but it’s been in remission. You feel pretty good when you book your cruise to Bermuda, except for some fatigue and a rash. Then the Caribbean sun triggers a serious lupus flare, sending you to the hospital. Because you had symptoms when you booked your trip, this is considered a pre-existing condition.

2. Travel insurance requirements for covering pre-existing medical conditions 

If you’re dealing with a pre-existing medical condition, that does not mean you can’t get travel insurance, or that you shouldn’t travel at all. You just have to read the insurance policy documents very carefully to make sure you meet all the requirements. As Conde Nast Traveler puts it , “it’s best not to make assumptions. Returning home in pain is bad enough. Don’t intensify it by unnecessarily paying thousands of dollars you could use on your next trip.”

Certain Allianz Global Assistance plans can include pre-existing medical condition coverage as long as you:

• Your policy was purchased within the time frame specified in your plan (usually 14 days of the date of the first trip payment or deposit.) In other words, don’t dawdle! Buy travel insurance as soon as you book your trip, so you don’t forget.
• Are a U.S. resident.
• Make sure you’re medically able to travel on the day you purchase the plan. Don’t assume you’re cleared to travel just because you feel OK that day. If you’re living with a chronic condition, or if you’ve recently had surgery or cancer treatment, it’s wise to get written approval to travel from your doctor.
• On the policy purchase date, insure the full non-refundable cost of your trip with Allianz Global Assistance — including trip arrangements that will become non-refundable or subject to cancellation penalties between the policy purchase date and the departure date. Make sure you include your airfare, hotel reservations, tour bookings and any other nonrefundable costs when you’re insuring your trip. If you incur additional non-refundable trip expenses after you purchase your policy, you must insure them with us within 14 days of their purchase. If you do not, those expenses will still be subject to the pre-existing medical condition exclusion.

3. What’s excluded from travel insurance coverage for pre-existing conditions

While most pre-existing conditions are covered by Allianz Global Assistance travel insurance, there are a few exceptions. Mental and nervous health disorders and normal pregnancy aren’t covered, for instance. If you want to make sure your particular condition is covered, speak with an insurance specialist before you buy.

Also, check the cap on trip costs. For the OneTrip Prime Plan , for instance, the total cost of your trip must be no more than $50,000 per person.

Why Allianz Global Assistance offers the best travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions 

If you have any kind of chronic health problem, travel insurance can save your vacation — or even your life. The best travel insurance for pre-existing conditions is the OneTrip Prime Plan from Allianz Global Assistance, which includes abundant coverage for covered emergency medical expenses overseas (up to $50,000). You also get emergency medical transportation benefits up to $500,000 to travel to the nearest appropriate medical facility or to return home. This is huge, especially if you suffer from a serious condition that might require advanced treatment. The OneTrip Premier Plan doubles these amounts.

Travel insurance from Allianz Global Assistance also can include trip cancellation and interruption benefits to reimburse you for non-refundable trip payments, in case you have to cancel your travel because of your covered pre-existing medical condition or another covered reason. You also get personalized, one-on-one help in emergencies from our hotline staff. Every day they help travelers who are suffering medical emergencies, lost documents, travel delays and other crises, all around the globe. But, our hotline experts say, the toughest thing they deal with is having to tell a customer who’s seriously ill that their pre-existing medical condition's not covered. That’s why it’s so important to follow the rules and meet the requirements.

Have questions about how to choose the best travel insurance for your covered pre-existing medical condition? Call our travel insurance advisers anytime at 1-866-884-3556. Travel happy!

Related Articles

• Trip Cancellation Insurance: Covered Reasons Explained
• When Does Travel Insurance Cover Existing Medical Conditions?
• Travel Insurance 101: Covered Illnesses

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Buying the Best Travel Medical Insurance for You [2024]

Christy Rodriguez

Travel & Finance Content Contributor

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Keri Stooksbury

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Table of Contents

What is travel medical insurance, what does travel medical insurance cover, what doesn’t travel medical insurance cover, what travel medical insurance isn’t, how does travel medical insurance work, how much does travel medical insurance cost, which company has the best travel medical insurance, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

The thought of getting sick or injured while traveling can be one of the most stressful aspects of planning a trip. Often, travelers assume that their primary health insurance will cover all costs of medical expenses on their trip, but not every health insurance plan covers every country and situation.

To ensure you have coverage if you need it, you may need to consider purchasing travel medical insurance. This can fill the gap between your regular insurance and any coverage you may have with your credit cards . We’ll break down all of the important details and tell you everything you should know about travel medical insurance.

If you are traveling domestically within your own country, you will likely be covered by your primary health insurance. If you are traveling abroad, your coverage may not extend to those other countries. This is primarily where travel medical insurance comes into play.

Travel medical insurance is a type of international insurance designed to cover emergency health care costs you might face when you are traveling or vacationing abroad.

A travel medical policy can be an important addition to your trip since your primary health plan may not cover you fully if you need assistance outside of your home country. An uninsured injury or illness abroad can result in a huge financial burden that can be significantly reduced by having travel medical insurance.

Bottom Line: Travel medical insurance is recommended by the U.S. Department of State, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO).

According to Allianz Travel, the most common overseas medical emergencies that are claimed include:

• Fractures from falls
• Cardiovascular problems such as a heart attack or stroke
• Trauma involving motor vehicles
• Respiratory problems such as a collapsed lung

So going with that first item, let’s say you’re exploring Europe and end up twisting your ankle on the beautiful, but uneven cobblestone streets in Rome. Depending on the plan you choose, you may be covered for:

• The cost of a local ambulance to transport you to the hospital
• Your emergency room co-payment
• The bill for your hospital room and board
• Any other eligible medical expenses, up to your plan limits

But there are limitations to travel medical insurance. Before you purchase a plan, it’s important to know exactly what you are buying — including which things are and aren’t included in your coverage.

Travel medical plans are designed to help in the event of an unforeseen illness or injury while traveling abroad. Travel medical insurance offers emergency medical expense coverage as well as emergency evacuation coverage. This means that the plan will reimburse you for reasonable and customary costs of emergency medical and dental care (up to the plan limits — discussed below).

It is important to look closely at all plans you are interested in since many important things are hidden in the details. You might also find it helpful to brush up on your insurance lingo before doing this.

Plan Limits

Travel medical insurance covers emergency medical costs up to the plan limit. Plan limits vary greatly by plan but typically fall between $50,000 and $2,000,000. This is obviously a HUGE range, so you will have to determine the correct amount of coverage based on a few key items:

• How much (if any) will your own health insurance plan or credit card cover when you’re traveling outside of your home country? As we discussed above, Medicare doesn’t cover you at all outside of the U.S., so this would be an instance where you might want your plan’s coverage limit to be higher.
• How long is your trip? If you’re going to be away for more than 1 to 2 months, you might want a higher plan limit to account for the greater exposure to risk.
• Do you need extra coverage due to risky activities? For example, if you expect to ski, mountain climb, or do any other risky activities where you might get injured, you might want a higher plan limit.
• What do you feel comfortable with?  If you feel safer having $100,000 as opposed to $50,000, then that may be the right decision for you. This insurance plan should provide you a sense of security so you can enjoy your trip.
• Deductibles

Most medical single trip plans have some sort of deductible that you must pay before any benefits will be paid. After this, your travel medical insurance will cover any remaining costs, up to the plan’s limit.

However, you will be offered the option to increase, decrease, or remove the deductible altogether. Based on this choice, the price you pay (aka the premium) will be affected accordingly. For example, if you choose a higher deductible, your premium will decrease. If you choose a lower (or no) deductible, your premium will increase.

Length of Trip

You are covered by travel medical insurance based on the type of plan you purchase. These come in 3 types:

Single-Trip Coverage

This is the most common type of travel medical insurance. When you leave your home, go on a trip, and then return home, this is considered to be a single trip. While on your trip, you can still visit multiple countries and destinations all under the umbrella of this single trip. You will be covered for the duration of this trip under a single trip travel medical insurance plan.

Multi-Trip Coverage

Multi-trip coverage is for multiple trips and often purchased in 3-, 6-, and 12-month segments.

Long-Term Coverage

This is continuous medical coverage for the long-term traveler (think expats or people working abroad) and is typically paid on a monthly basis.

Does Travel Medical Insurance Cover COVID-19?

Many travel insurance policies offer good medical coverage, but not all plans cover expenses related to COVID-19 . If that’s important to you, make sure to verify that the plan you’re buying specifically covers you in case you contract COVID-19.

In general, cancellations due to fear of travel are not covered. However, some plans cover you if you or your covered traveling companion were to become sick as a result of COVID-19. This means that you could still receive benefits for the losses that are covered by the plan.

Many countries around the world , such as Costa Rica and the United Arab Emirates, are even requiring travelers to hold a specific level of medical coverage to account for COVID-19-related medical care and evacuation.

In addition, “ Cancel for Any Reason ” has become a hot topic. This optional coverage is not available with all plans but lets you cancel a trip for a partial refund no matter what your reason — including unexpected travel bans, lengthy quarantine periods, or cancellations due to concerns over COVID-19.

Since travel medical insurance is meant to cover emergencies, certain types of expenses are excluded from most travel medical policies. In addition, for insurance purposes, a pre-existing condition is general defined as any condition:

• For which medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment was recommended or received within a defined period of time prior to your coverage date (varies from plan to plan, but is typically within 60 days to 2 years)
• That would cause a “reasonably prudent person” to seek medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment prior to your coverage date
• That existed prior to your effective date of coverage, whether or not it was known to you (commonly includes pregnancy)

Hot Tip: You do not need a medical examination in order to purchase travel insurance. If you have a claim, the insurance company will investigate to ensure that your claim occurred during the coverage period of your policy and wasn’t a result of any pre-existing conditions.

Here are some of the most frequent exclusions:

• Pre-existing conditions as defined above
• Routine medical examinations and care (i.e. wellness exams, ongoing prescriptions, etc.)
• Routine prenatal, pregnancy, childbirth, and post-natal care
• Medical expenses for injury or illness caused by extreme sports
• Mental health disorders
• Injury caused by the effects of intoxication or illegal drugs
• Payments exceeding the plan limit

Unless you’ve purchased a comprehensive travel insurance plan, other exclusions include claims related to:

• Trip cancellation
• Lost luggage
• Rental car damage

Be sure to read the description of coverage for any plan you’re considering before you make the purchase. While reading the entire document front to back can be tedious, it’s better to know what’s excluded before you attempt to make a claim.

Now that we’ve let you know what is and isn’t covered by travel medical insurance, we’ll also breakdown the difference between travel medical insurance and other similar options.

Comprehensive Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance plans offer the most benefits of all plan types and will typically include medical coverage. It can offer you additional coverage for things like trip cancellation, trip delay and cancellation, lost luggage, and more. It’s the best way to cover a host of potential common travel-related problems.

Some comprehensive plans also offer additional coverage for things like rental car damage, Cancel for Any Reason, or a pre-existing condition waiver.

Bottom Line: Comprehensive travel insurance is a full-service plan and includes travel medical coverage as well as other coverages that will protect all aspects of your trip. 

Health Insurance

You might be thinking that already have medical insurance provided by your employer or through Medicare. However, when you travel to other countries, your primary health insurance might not go with you. Before your trip, check to see whether your domestic plan provides any coverage once you’ve left your home country since many offer limited or no coverage.

In case of a medical emergency, you will want to be able to lay your hands quickly on your travel insurance plan’s contact information for the 24-hour Emergency Assistance program as well as your policy number, so make sure to keep this information somewhere that is easily accessible. Also, be sure you know how to place a call to that number from outside the country.

This is important because you’ll be required to call your travel insurance provider and notify them that you need to be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible. Obviously, you may not be medically able to call before you seek emergency medical treatment, but you should do so as soon as you are able to.

The earlier you can call, the more likely it is that you can avoid any issues for payment of claims and you can also get help and advice from the company’s emergency assistance program.

Bottom Line: Specific details on when and how to contact your insurance provider in case of a medical emergency vary by plan and provider, so thoroughly review these details in your plan information.

For example, in the event of an emergency that requires emergency medical evacuation, your insurance provider will have to approve the evacuation and even make those arrangements for you. If you don’t call ahead to have them do this, the company may not approve the expense and you may be stuck paying for the evacuation in full.

Once you are actually at a medical facility to receive care, make sure to document the experience as thoroughly as possible. This means asking for copies of all of your records before you check out. You’ll need to provide these records to the insurance company when you eventually file your claim and having proof of treatment and costs will assist you in filing a successful claim and getting your money back as soon as possible.

Travel medical insurance plans can vary widely in price, but in general, plans cost anywhere between 4-10% of your total non-refundable trip cost. The pricing of any plan takes into consideration many things, including a few that we discussed above, to determine the cost. These include:

• Age of travelers
• Plan limits
• Supplemental plans such as “Cancel For Any Reason” coverage or coverage for pre-existing conditions
• Length of trip

In addition, if you decide that a comprehensive plan is a better choice for you, this will also increase the price.

The best travel medical insurance company for you may be determined by what type and how much coverage you’d like to have. Let’s review a few options and companies to consider.

Credit Card Coverage

Many premium cards have some medical coverage, so be sure to look over all of the best credit cards for travel insurance coverage and protection.

For example, cardholders of The Platinum Card ® from American Express may already have $15,000 of secondary medical coverage . For many, this may be enough, but for others, you may not feel comfortable at this level of coverage and want to purchase a travel medical insurance policy.

Travel Medical Insurance Policies

If you are looking to purchase a plan from a reputable company, a few options include:

1. Patriot Travel Medical Insurance from IMG Global

For the out-of-country plans, Patriot offers:

• Short-term travel medical coverage
• Coverage for individuals, groups, and their dependents
• Daily or monthly rates
• Freedom to seek treatment with the hospital or doctor of your choice

The following plans are available based on the level of coverage that you desire and you can request a quote through their website linked above.

2. GeoBlue Single Trip Traveler Medical Insurance

GeoBlue offers both the “Voyager Choice” and “Voyager Essential” single trip plans. Both plans allow you to choose your level of medical coverage (from $50,000 up to $1 million) and offer $500,000 in emergency medical transportation and repatriation coverage.

The main difference between the 2 plans is that the Choice plan does not require you to be covered by a primary health plan, but doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions. The Voyager plan will cover all pre-existing conditions, but functions as a secondary coverage after your primary health plan.

3. Allianz Travel Medical Insurance

Allianz offers an Emergency Medical plan that offers additional benefits that extend beyond simply medical coverage. This plan is a comprehensive plan that covers lost baggage and trip cancellation and delay, in addition to emergency medical coverage. See just a few of these benefits below:

In addition, many companies, such as AAA,  offer travel insurance through Allianz, so you may receive a further discount if you reference your AAA policy.

Travel medical insurance can be beneficial for most travelers when traveling internationally as most primary health insurance plans won’t cover you abroad. We hope we’ve given you the tools you need to select a plan that works best for you and your travel needs.

At the end of the day, a travel medical plan is a great option if you’re traveling abroad and are not worried about covering trip costs due to a cancellation or added expenses due to a travel delay. Anyone looking for robust coverage for baggage or interruption should consider an upgrade to a more comprehensive plan.

All information and content provided by Upgraded Points is intended as general information and for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice or legal advice. For more information, see our  Medical & Legal Disclaimers .

Frequently Asked Questions

How much travel medical insurance do i need.

When considering the amount of coverage you’d like for your travel medical insurance plan, consider the following:

• How much (if any) will your own health insurance plan or credit card cover when you’re traveling outside of your home country?
• How long is your trip?
• Do you need extra coverage due to risky activities?
• What amount of coverage do you feel comfortable with?

Refer to the section titled “Plan Limits” for more detailed considerations.

How long does it take to receive travel medical insurance?

Travel medical insurance coverage starts the day of your trip, so you want to make sure you sign up for it before you leave. Most plans allow you to buy insurance up until the day before your trip.

However, the best time to buy travel medical insurance is within 15 days of making the first payment on your trip, since buying early can often qualify you for bonus coverages.

Is travel medical insurance worth it?

Depending on your primary health insurance and any secondary coverage you might be eligible for, travel medical insurance can still be a great tool to protect you from financial hits caused by injury or illness.

In addition, travel medical insurance can help organize assistance in extreme circumstances (such as medical evacuation). You can also pick the appropriate level of coverage to make you feel comfortable.

Does AAA offer travel medical insurance?

Yes, AAA offers travel medical insurance, but it is usually serviced by another company such as IMG Global or Allianz. You will normally receive a greater discount if you mention your AAA insurance policy, so don’t forget to include this when you request a quote!

Can you get travel insurance when already abroad?

Most companies do not offer travel insurance policies once your trip has already begun. There are a few reputable companies, such as  World Nomads and  SafetyWing , that are set up for long-term travel.

These companies allow you to purchase plans once your trip has already begun, but the rates may be higher than a plan that was purchased prior to leaving for your trip.

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About Christy Rodriguez

After having “non-rev” privileges with Southwest Airlines, Christy dove into the world of points and miles so she could continue traveling for free. Her other passion is personal finance, and is a certified CPA.

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Can I Get Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions?

Anya Kartashova is a freelance writer and full-time traveler based in Salt Lake City. She has written about travel rewards and personal finance for FrugalTravelGuy, Fodor's, FlyerTalk, 10xTravel and Reward Expert. Her goal is to visit every country in the world by offsetting the cost with points and miles.

Megan Lee joined the travel rewards team at NerdWallet with over 12 years of SEO, writing and content development experience, primarily in international education and nonprofit work. She has been published in U.S. News & World Report, USA Today and elsewhere, and has spoken at conferences like that of NAFSA: Association of International Educators. Megan has built and directed remote content teams and editorial strategies for websites like GoAbroad and Go Overseas. When not traveling, Megan adventures around her Midwest home base where she likes to attend theme parties, ride her bike and cook Asian food.

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Table of Contents

What is considered a pre-existing condition?

How to qualify for a pre-existing medical conditions waiver, where to find coverage for pre-existing conditions, travel insurance for pre-existing conditions, recapped.

Although trip delay and baggage loss insurance are good to have, purchasing a medical insurance policy before hitting the road can be the difference between an expensive vacation and a really expensive vacation. Those with pre-existing conditions may be wondering if they can still get travel insurance. Luckily, the answer is yes.

Here’s where to look for and how to get travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions.

» Learn more: What to know before buying travel insurance

A pre-existing condition is an illness, injury or medical concern that has included exams, treatments or a change in prescribed medication within 60 to 180 days of purchasing a travel insurance policy. The condition doesn’t have to be diagnosed formally to be considered a pre-existing condition.

For example, say you go on a bike tour of Amsterdam and suffer a mild heart attack. If a doctor had diagnosed hypertension (high blood pressure) a few weeks before your trip, this is considered a pre-existing condition.

So, what does a pre-existing medical condition mean for travel insurance? The good news is that having a pre-existing condition doesn’t preclude you from traveling or being eligible for medical coverage. Many comprehensive plans cover pre-existing conditions and can help you recoup your money if you require medical treatment during your trip or have to cancel a trip altogether because of a medical issue.

To avoid being on the hook for medical bills abroad or losing a deposit before you even pack your bags, look for a policy that includes a pre-existing condition waiver. Read the fine print on the insurance provider’s website; there shouldn’t be an age limit on most plans, and the premium shouldn’t cost more than it would for people without pre-existing medical conditions.

As long as you’re medically fit to travel, you can qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver if you meet the following criteria and apply within the eligible timeframe:

A pre-existing condition must be stable.

You must buy coverage at the time of your first trip deposit or shortly thereafter (time frame varies by company).

Amount of coverage must be equal to all pre-paid, non-refundable costs.

For example, if you put down a 50% deposit on a safari in South Africa, you must buy travel insurance within the time specified by the insurance provider to be eligible for a pre-existing medical conditions waiver. If you wait too long to purchase coverage, you'll have missed the coverage purchasing window and the waiver won’t be applicable to your trip.

We recommend purchasing a travel insurance policy as soon as you make the first deposit on a trip.

If you don’t qualify for a waiver, then a travel insurance company has a right to look back at the traveler’s medical records for the last 60 to 180 days (varies by plan), which is called a look-back period. This is done to determine whether you’re filing a claim for an incident related to a pre-existing condition, which then determines whether it’s going to be covered or not.

The pre-existing medical conditions waiver may also provide coverage in the case of a non-traveling family member having a medical problem mid-trip. This varies by plan.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies

With so many providers to choose from, it’s hard to make the right choice. So, which travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions is best?

You can turn to travel insurance companies such as Allianz , Travel Guard by AIG or RoamRight to locate the right plan for your trip.

Instead of getting quotes from every travel insurance company under the sun, we recommend InsureMyTrip, which is a free comparison site that allows you to get quotes from multiple providers at once.

To start a quote, you must:

Select your travel destination.

Provide travel dates.

Disclose your citizenship and the state where you live.

Select the number of travelers and their ages.

The website will ask you additional questions, such as:

Whether you’re taking a flight, going on a cruise or renting a vacation home.

The total cost of nonrefundable expenses, such as flight costs, hotel bookings and tours.

The date you made the first payment toward the trip and viewed your coverage options.

You can sort and filter your results in multiple ways. Compare the plans offered and make a selection based on price, insurance provider reviews or the included coverage.

Keep in mind that it’s not possible to find annual travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions. Comprehensive plans that include coverage for pre-existing conditions can only be purchased for every trip separately.

Yes, it is possible to find travel insurance coverage suitable for trip takers with qualifying pre-existing conditions.

The best travel insurance options for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions include Travel Guard by AIG and Allianz .

Unless you purchase a plan with explicit coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, you can generally expect that costs related to these conditions pre- or mid-trip are excluded from a travel insurance policy. For plans with the option to cover pre-existing medical conditions, qualified travelers can select a Waiver of Pre-Existing Medical Conditions.

Example eligible conditions include illnesses, injuries or medical concerns that have included exams, treatments or a change in prescribed medication within 2-6 months of purchasing a travel insurance policy (depending on the provider).

The best travel insurance options for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions include

Travel Guard by AIG

Optional travel insurance certainly can protect you from the unexpected. To obtain coverage for a pre-existing condition, make sure to follow all the rules of the policy you’re about to purchase. Buy a policy within the specified time frame and declare all nonrefundable expenses accurately.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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Travel insurance for pre-existing heart conditions

Here’s how to get travel insurance if you have a heart condition or had prior operations..

In this guide

Get your quote for travel insurance that considers all pre-existing heart conditions

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Heart conditions are treated just like any other pre-existing medical condition when it comes to travel insurance. Most insurers will ask you to take an online medical questionnaire where you can disclose the details of your condition. After you complete the questionnaire, the insurer will let you know if it can offer you cover.

Specialising in covering all pre-existing conditions – including heart-related issues like heart attacks, stents and those who have undergone pacemaker surgery – these brands don't have blanket exclusions and consider all heart conditions, including severe ones.

Note: This information was last updated August 2022

What else can I find on this page?

Heart-related conditions can include forms of heart disease and problems with blood vessels. Here are a few common heart conditions that can be covered by travel insurance brands in Australia.

• Am I covered for angioplasty or stents?
• Am I covered for atrial fibrillation?
• Am I covered for cardiomyopathy?
• Am I covered for heart attacks?
• Do I need to disclose palpitations?
• Can I get travel insurance if I have an ICD fitted?

Although angioplasty is considered to be minimally invasive, if you've undergone angioplasty or had a stent fitted in your heart, insurers will class this as a pre-existing medical condition. You'll need to inform the insurer about it when you take out a policy.

You'll need to complete an assessment of your condition and provide the following information:

• Reasons for the angioplasty procedure
• Date of the procedure
• Information about your lifestyle and how you're looking after your heart

Some insurers will completely exclude atrial fibrillation. However, there are travel insurance brands that provide cover on a case-by-case basis. You'll need to complete a medical assessment so the insurer can better understand your situation.

Cardiomyopathy affects approximately 1 in 500 Australians. There are several types of cardiomyopathy, the most common being a dilated or enlarged heart, which can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, fainting and even chest pains.

Since there are sevveral types, the insurer assesses cardiomyopathy on a case-by-case basis when you apply for cover.

You'll need to complete a medical assessment so the insurer can better understand your situation.

If you have suffered a heart attack, you can still get travel insurance cover. As with any pre-existing medical condition, you must declare it to your insurer at the time you take out the policy. Whether the insurer covers you and how much it costs will depend on the following factors:

• Severity of the heart attack
• Date of your heart attack
• What surgical measures have been taken to prevent it from recurring

If you do receive cover, you'll likely have to pay an extra premium and deal with special conditions, limitations and excesses on your policy.

If you've sought treatment for heart palpitations but fail to disclose this to your insurance provider, insurers will consider your heart palpitations a pre-existing heart-related condition even though it may not seem serious.

Any heart conditions that arise on your trip as a result of palpitations will not be covered without disclosure.

Many travel insurance providers will not provide overseas cover of expenses relating to an automated implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD or AICD), and policies will specifically list it as a pre-existing condition.

This means standard policies may not cover any medical costs directly, or indirectly, related to the ICD, such as any other heart conditions that may be connected.

To get overseas medical cover for ICDs, you can do either of the following:

• Make special arrangements with an insurer to get cover for this pre-existing condition at extra cost
• Find an insurer that does not exclude ICDs in their policy, such as InsureAndGo

To make arrangements for ICD cover, you need to customise your policy around it at extra cost. This may let you get more flexibility, but can also cost more than finding a policy which includes cover for it by default.

It may be difficult to find travel insurance providers that cover ICDs. InsureAndGo is one of the few options available and has a range of benefits for travellers with pre-existing conditions such as options for unlimited medical cover, and does not require testing requirements prior to getting cover.

If you receive cover for any of these conditions

You may have to pay an extra premium or deal with special conditions, limitations and excesses on your policy.

Travel insurers need to assess your premiums accurately

It is vital that you declare your heart condition when you take out a policy as it is considered a pre-existing condition. An insurer's aim is to provide you with cover for an agreed level of risk and without disclosure of a pre-existing heart condition, the provider is taking on extra risk that they did not agree to. After you declare certain conditions, insurers will assess whether they will cover you as well as decide on the appropriate premiums if they do agree to cover you.

Insurers can void your cover if you do not declare

Although it seems like a shortcut to lowering your premiums, if you don’t declare your heart condition to your insurer and you have an incident on your holiday that is related to the heart condition, then you will not be covered for any medical treatment or hospital expenses incurred because of it. If you're in a country such as Japan or America, where healthcare is extremely expensive, then you'll be facing a huge bill that you'll have to pay yourself.

Example: Matt's $2,400 check-up

Having booked his long-awaited European holiday, Matt was counting down the days until he would depart on his dream getaway. A couple of days before his departure, Matt visited his doctor for a heart check-up after noticing an irregular heartbeat.

The condition was deemed non-life-threatening, and although Matt was still awaiting test results, he headed off overseas without a care in the world. However, after a week in Amsterdam, Matt became hospitalised with hypertension (abnormally high blood pressure).

Although Matt was sure these expenses would be covered by his travel insurance, when he phoned his insurance company, he received a nasty shock. Since he had the check-up before his departure, he was classified as having a pre-existing condition which he did not tell his insurer about. The medical and hospital costs he incurred overseas were excluded from cover, leaving Matt severely out of pocket and completely broke.

Costs Matt faced

• $2,000 in hospital stay expenses
• $400 in medical treatment

Out-of-pocket costs

Cover received from his travel insurance provider.

Matt did not disclose his heart condition once he found out about it.

* This is a fictional, but realistic, example.

This shows the importance of reading the fine print of an insurance policy's PDS to make sure you’re fully aware of what is and isn’t covered. It also acts as a crucial reminder of how vital it is that you notify your insurer of any changes to your circumstances–no matter how insignificant they may seem.

Insurers offer different methods for you to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions and heart problems you may have. Depending on the insurer, you may have to do one or more of the following:

• Undergo a phone assessment to answer questions about your health.
• Fill out an online questionnaire.
• Fill out and post or email a hard-copy form.
• Undergo a face-to-face medical assessment.

Once you’ve provided all the relevant information concerning your health, your insurer will provide a written notice to let you know whether you will be offered cover. You’ll also be notified of any special conditions or exclusions that may apply to your policy and of any premiums you are required to pay before cover will take effect.

Typically, you'll be asked for the following information:

• Medications you take to treat your heart condition
• If you've changed your medication recently (e.g. in the last 90 days)
• If you've recently seen a medical practitioner (e.g. in the last 90 days)
• If you've recently been admitted or undergone treatment in a hospital (e.g. in the last 12 months)
• If you're currently awaiting a medical review or treatment
• Planning makes perfect. You can still enjoy a wonderful, safe holiday if you have a heart condition. The key to a stress-free trip is to plan ahead. Make sure to consider all aspects of your condition and plan for each stage of the trip to make it run as smoothly as possible.
• Choose wisely. Always keep your condition in mind when choosing your destination and the type of holiday you want to have. Relaxing in the shade on a tropical beach could be perfect, but trekking at high altitude could be a big mistake.
• Take more than you need. If you’re on regular medication, prepare for the worst and take extra supplies with you in case your travel plans are interrupted.
• Stretch it out. Make sure to stretch regularly on long flights to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis.
• Get it in writing. Before you travel, ask your doctor to put together a letter detailing your condition, the treatment you have received and the medication you have been prescribed.
• Tell your friends. Make sure that everyone travelling with you knows about your condition. It could save your life in an emergency situation.
• Stay on track. Just because you’re on holiday doesn’t mean you can take a break from your diet or your medication. Monitor what you eat and keep your fluids up at all times.
• Take time to relax. With so much of the world to see and with so little time to see it, travel can be exhausting. Take time to sit back, relax and smell the roses every now and then.
• Don’t forget insurance. If you’re travelling with a heart condition, travel insurance is essential. Take out a policy at the same time you book your holiday so that you can take advantage of cover if you need to amend your holiday plans.

If you suffer from heart disease and decide to travel, make sure you are aware of the following:

High altitude can affect your heart

Travelling to high-altitude destinations is possible if you have a heart condition, but you should be aware that travelling to countries at high altitude can lead to complications. The lower levels of oxygen available when you’re more than 2,000 metres above sea level can lead to breathlessness and angina. People with coronary artery disease might experience an increase in their symptoms.

If you suffer from cardiomyopathy or have a history of heart failure, keeping your fluid intake up and minimising your intake of salt are important as is discussing your condition with your doctor before planning a holiday.

Planes increase the risk of DVT

Australia is a long way away from many popular bucket-list destinations, so you may endure a long flight to get to where you want to go. Before you book a flight, visit your doctor to get advice on whether you’re fit enough to travel to your chosen destination by air.

People with heart conditions or with a history of heart disease are also at an increased risk of suffering from deep vein thrombosis (DVT), so make sure to fully research DVT-prevention exercises and other tools such as compression socks before you travel.

Finally, make sure you’re fully aware of the restrictions placed on the amount of medication you are able to carry on international flights.

Remember to bring your heart monitoring equipment

With the heightened security measures at airports and border crossings, travelling with a pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is a little more complicated. These devices can set off the security metal detectors at airports, so make sure you inform a security guard of your condition. You can then ask to be hand searched or have a hand-held detector used to search you (but never placed over your device). Also, make sure to remember to take your device identification card with you when packing for your trip.

Many high-end credit cards come with complimentary travel insurance. If you pay for your trip with your card, you will usually be able to enjoy some form of travel insurance cover when you begin your getaway.

While this free cover is undoubtedly a bonus, as a general rule, most credit card travel insurance policies will automatically exclude cover for pre-existing medical conditions, so chances are your heart problem won’t be covered. Credit card travel insurance is usually quite limited when compared with normal travel insurance, including much lower limits on cover for overseas medical expenses, so shopping around for standalone travel insurance is crucial.

You may find these guides useful

• Does travel insurance cover high blood pressure?
• Getting travel insurance following stroke

*Information accurate as of August 2015. Subject to change

I had a heart bypass a few months ago; can I get cover?

Yes, provided you declared the bypass operation when taking out your policy and were proclaimed fit for travel by your doctor and approved by the insurer.

I recently had a coronary angioplasty procedure. Can I still get suitable cover for an overseas holiday?

Possibly. This is a condition many insurers would consider covering, but such things are determined on a case-by-case basis.

I had a coronary stent fitted last year, which I forgot to mention when getting an insurance quote. Will this affect my quote?

Yes, you may need to pay an additional premium.

I have angina. Can I get cover for a 6-month cruise?

Normally, yes, but if you are aged 75 or over, some insurers will only cover you for around half that period.

What if I have another episode or require hospitalisation after I get cover, but before I travel?

Generally, travel policies will exclude from cover conditions for which treatment has been recently sought. If there's any change in your condition after you purchase cover but before you depart, it's important to check in with your insurer to confirm whether you're still covered and to see if there will be any change to your premium.

I'm taking medication for high blood pressure. What happens if I lose it while I'm overseas?

It shouldn't be a problem. Most travel insurance policies provide cover for replacement of lost medications while on holiday, but check your policy before you go just to be sure.

Richard Laycock

Richard Laycock is Finder’s insights editor after spending the last five years writing and editing articles about insurance. His musings can be found across the web including on MoneyMag, Yahoo Finance and Travel Weekly. Richard studied Media at Macquarie University and The Missouri School of Journalism and has a Tier 1 Certification in General Advice for Life Insurance. See full profile

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Looking to travel after having a stroke? Find out how travel insurance policies can cover prior strokes.

Find out how disabilities affect travel insurance and read tips for travelling with a disability.

Most insurers cover Epilepsy as a pre-existing medical condition however you must ensure that the variant of Epilepsy is covered by your policy. Read more.

Suffer from asthma and need travel insurance? It’s often easier than you think, provided you meet certain criteria and tell your insurer about your condition.

If you suffer from cystic fibrosis and you’re planning a holiday, you may find it more difficult to find travel insurance cover, but if you plan ahead and apply for your cystic fibrosis to be included as a pre-existing condition, you may be able to find a travel insurer.

This guide looks at mental illness, how insurers treat this pre-existing medical condition and provides tips on where to get insurance cover and advice.

Can I get travel insurance if I have or have had cancer? This guide looks at the intricacies of getting cover for former and current cancer patients.

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16 Responses

Is it possible to get a travel insurance policy to cover a pre-existing medical condition only, or is cover only possibly available as part of a comprehensive policy?

Thanks for getting in touch. If I am understanding you correctly, you will need to take out a comprehensive travel insurance policy. Depending on your circumstances, it may be able to cover you.

Regards, Gary

Can you explain the benefits/cons to the Reciprocal Health Care Agreements provided to Aust travellers going overseas including their limitations

Thanks for reaching out to Finder!

Reciprocal Health Care Agreements are designed to provide essential medical services to the citizens of each country. This includes cover for the cost of medical treatment for:

Visitors from RHCA countries who travel to Australia Australians who visit a country that has an RHCA with Australia

Without the cover provided by an RHCA, you would have to meet any overseas medical expenses you incur out of your own pocket. This could potentially see you facing hospital bills of several thousands of dollars, so the RHCA is an important tool to help overseas visitors to and from Australia and agreement countries access the medical treatment they need. Check our guide to Reciprocal health care agreement (RHCA) , to know what you’re covered for when you visit the country as listed.

Hope this helps,

Best, Nikki

I have just been diagnosed with Aortic Stenosis, don’t have to use any medication. Can I get travel insurance?

Thanks for reaching out to finder!

Yes, even with your heart condition, you may still get a travel insurance. You have to declare your condition and undergo medical assessment though. You may contact any of the insurer listed above.

Additionally, InsureandGo does not automatically exclude any conditions and claims to assess all conditions on a case-by-case basis. Similarly, Allclear considers all pre-existing conditions. Also, CoverMore may be able to cover you for an additional premium, subject to the outcome of a short medical assessment.

I hope this information helps.

Cheers, Liezl

My son is 34 years old and had valve cleaned blood infection MRSA. The doctor from the cardio clinic said he is fine to travel. Do I have to pay more insurance and how much more extra would it be?

Thanks for reaching out to us.

There are some insurers that will cover people with heart conditions. You’re actually on the correct page on where you can compare your options and where you can get a quote.

– Undergo a phone assessment to answer questions about your health. – Fill out an online questionnaire. – Fill out and post or email a hard-copy form. – Undergo a face-to-face medical assessment.

On the table above, you may click on your preferred insurance to see more details then you may click on the green ‘Get Quote’ button to request a quote from them.

Best regards, Rench

My 78 year old husband has a gallstone diagnosed 1 year ago but not blocking bile duct so would he be covered if taking a cruise to a pacific Islands. Thanks

Thank you for your inquiry. I’m sorry to hear about the medical condition of your husband.

Your husband can still get travel insurance when taking the cruise. You just have to disclose the pre-existing condition or medical problems to your chosen insurer prior to purchasing the cover.

If you wish to learn more, we have a guide that talks about travel insurance for gallstones . On that page, you should learn more about how to get travel insurance when you have gallstones or a history of it.

On the same page, you should also be able to see a form that you can fill out. Provide the necessary details and select the “Get my quote” button. You would then be presented with a list of travel insurance brands based on your given details. Compare them based on various details and select the “Go to site” button (if available) to be redirected safely to your chosen insurer’s website. You can then proceed with the purchase of your policy or get in touch with their representative for further enquiries.

Moreover, there might be two providers that you might be interested in:

– InsureandGo do not automatically exclude any conditions and claim to assess all conditions on a case-by-case basis. – CoverMore may be able to cover you for an additional premium, subject to the outcome of a short medical assessment.

While looking for insurers, please make sure you read the terms and conditions of the policy to learn more and know if it is the right policy for you or not.

I hope this helps. Should you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach us out again.

Have a wonderful day! Cheers,

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Heart Disease Travel Insurance

At AllClear we believe that heart disease shouldn't stop you from travelling the world.

• 24/7 emergency medical helpline
• All pre-existing medical conditions covered
• Repatriation cover included

Travel Insurance for Heart Disease

Coronary heart disease travel insurance covers you if you have a heart condition and wish to travel with peace of mind. This type of insurance covers you for medical emergencies, helping to prevent unexpected medical bills and unnecessary complications that can arise on trips abroad.

Why do You Need Travel Insurance for Coronary Heart Disease?

As the specialists in medical travel insurance since 2000, we understand that it can be difficult to get the travel insurance you want and need if you have a heart disease. AllClear provides travel insurance for heart conditions including angina , atrial fibrillation and cardiac difficulties after a heart attack .

We provide cover to thousands of people with pre-existing medical conditions travelling to destinations all over the world and if you have had difficulty getting heart disease travel insurance in the past, we could help you. Our travel insurance for heart conditions …

SWIPE TO COMPARE POLICIES

* If you buy a policy which includes cancellation cover. / All these figures are per person and per trip.

Tips When Travelling After a Heart Attack

• Talk to your doctor (Source: NHS) about your trip and find out if they have any specific advice that you should follow while you’re on holiday. They have the best understanding of your heart condition , and they can let you know of any precautions you should – such as getting up from your seat at least every two hours to improve blood circulation.
• If you have an implanted cardiac defibrillator (Source: NHS) , you should request a hand search at security if possible. There have been no reports of ICD dysfunction caused by metal detectors, but researchers say there could be a theoretical risk.
• When you are on a special diet for your heart problems at home, try to follow your diet as much as possible on your trip. If you have heart issues, eating too much salt can increase your risk of symptoms – so avoid excessively salty foods while travelling.
• You will need to arrange medication for the duration of your trip, as well as extra supplies in case you are delayed or your medication is misplaced.
• If you experience heart symptoms, get emergency medical help right away. You will then need to contact the medical emergency assistance company as detailed in your medical travel insurance policy. You can find the correct telephone number to call for your policy here: Medical Emergency contact numbers.
• If there are any changes to your health before you travel, including any new medication, please contact our Customer Care Team on  01708 339029 and we’ll be happy to update your cover.

Simple 3 step quote process

1. call us or click a quote button on our site, 2. complete our simple medical screening process, 3. get your quotes, our 5 star rating on trustpilot, what our customers say, important information on heart disease travel insurance, conditions related to heart disease.

Heart disease is a general term related to a number of conditions. It can also be called coronary heart disease and ischemic heart disease . The main symptoms of heart disease are angina , heart attack and heart failure .

You want to ensure you’re properly covered, does our medical screening process allow you to provide details of your heart disease history?

With many years of experience handling very complicated medical conditions, AllClear has designed a straight forward online medical screening process. This process is a simple question and answer format and provides us with all the information we need to offer you a quote for your heart disease.  Once completed you can review the quotes and cover levels available and decide the premium you wish to pay.

What will affect the premium?

With holiday insurance for heart conditions , premiums are calculated based on the answers you provide throughout the medical screening process. Many factors are taken into consideration including the length of your holiday, where you are going, your age and medical conditions.

What happens if your medical situation changes after you’ve bought your policy?

If you develop a new medical condition or an existing one changes once you’ve purchased your travel insurance, you will still be able to amend your policy. Please ready our change in state of health article for more information. You will need to notify us at the earliest opportunity and in particular before you book or commence your trip –  just call our Customer Care Team and they will be happy to make any adjustments. Please note that in some cases an additional premium may be applied to your policy to make these changes. Please check your policy wording as providers may vary .  

Article References:

• NHS: Traveling with a heart condition
• NHS: When can I fly after a heart attack?

Annual multi-trip or single trip?

An annual multi-trip policy allows you to travel multiple times within a year. The maximum duration of these trips varies between policies. However, it is usually between 31 to 45 days. If you need a longer trip duration or, if you only plan on travelling once in the year, then a  single trip travel insurance policy  may be right for you.

What will affect the price of your policy?

We calculate the premiums you’re displayed using multiple factors. These include  age , trip duration ,  destination  and  pre-existing medical conditions .

  Quote now

Written by: Nick Heady Last Updated: 19 June 2024

† Based on Trustpilot reviews of all companies in the Travel Insurance Company category that have over 70,000 reviews as of January 2024. AllClear Gold Plus achieved a Which? Best Buy.

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Please Note - If you are cruising around Australia you need to select Pacific. With Regions, variances can apply for Bali, Indonesia, Japan and Middle East. You are not required to enter stop-over countries if your stop-over is less than 48 hours.

If you don’t know where you’re traveling to within the next 12 months, choose Worldwide to ensure you’re covered no matter where you go. If you’re travelling to multiple countries choose the region that you are visiting that is furthest away (excluding stopovers less than 48 hours). In most cases you will be covered for the closer regions as well. For example, if you choose Europe, you will also be covered in the Middle East, Asia and Pacific.

Worldwide means anywhere in the world

Americas means USA, Canada, South America, Latin America, Hawaii and the Caribbean

Europe means all European countries, including UK

Middle East refers to the area from Syria to Yemen; Egypt to Iran

Asia generally means Asia and the Indian subcontinent. For some insurers this excludes Japan*

Pacific means the South West Pacific, Australia and Indonesia/Bali*. Select Pacific for domestic cruises in New Zealand waters

New Zealand means domestic travel within New Zealand only

*Note: Variances apply for Bali, Indonesia, Japan and Middle East. Check that your destination is covered once directed to your chosen insurer’s site.

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR HEART CONDITIONS

With around 1 in 5 Australians, or over 4.2 million Australians living with cardiovascular disease, travelling with heart conditions is becoming incredibly common. We get calls daily from people looking for travel insurance for their heart or cardiovascular condition, particularly heart attacks, pacemakers, atrial fibrillation and stents - so you're not alone. While it used to be incredibly common for insurers to have blanket exclusions for heart conditions, the industry is becoming more sophisticated and cover is now more widely available. It’s important for travellers to take advantage of this and cover their condition if they’re able to.

Declare your condition

Many insurers are employing advanced online medical screening tools to allow more travellers to get the cover they need for an increase in premum. You can answer questions about your condition and they’ll let you know immediately if they can cover you and if there will be an increase in the premium. If you’re an otherwise healthy non-smoker who can get around without breathlessness, have a preventative stent or had a heart attack a three years ago, for example – these things no longer seem to be a barrier to getting full travel health cover with these screenings. Remember, all declarations are assessed on a case-by-case basis, so it is important to answer the questions accurately. Incorrect information can invalidate your policy, which means eyewatering medical bills for you and your loved ones.

Insider Tip: Check out the underwriter

Insurers with the same underwriter often have the same health screening standards, which means if you can't get cover for your condition with one brand, you're unlikely to be able to get cover with other brands with the same underwriter. 

If you’re having difficulty getting cover with any standard travel insurer, an option to look at is a specialist medical travel insurer, like AllClear Travel Insurance , as they consider a wider range of conditions for those of any age.

Who offers cover for some heart and cardiovascular conditions?

P   reparation is important

Before you book your flights, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor to get a check-up. Take the opportunity to talk about ways you can improve your health in the lead up to your trip, particularly with respect to diet or exercise plans. Given that conditions like influenza can be a trigger for heart attacks, you may also wish to enquire about getting your flu shot. Thanks to increased physical activity, sun exposure and alcohol, dehydration while on holidays is very common, which can cause a strain on your heart due to decreased blood volume and thicker blood. Drinking plenty of water, particularly as soon as you wake up and while outdoors can assist in preventing unnecessary heart stress. Before travelling, make sure you stock up on your medications, as depending on where you travel to, you may not be able to easily obtain them if you run out. When you board a flight, have your medication in its original bottle, with the prescription letter from your doctor, and always transport it in your carry-on – if your checked luggage ends up in the wrong place, you don’t want your medication to be there too.

Are You A Mature Traveller?

If you are over the age of 50, finding a suitable policy to cover your pre-existing medical conditions can be more tricky. Read our  guide to seniors travel insurance  for some top tips.

Crystal Moran

With a research and journalism background, and certified in Tier 2 General Insurance General Advice, Crystal is passionate about investigating customers’ tricky travel questions and helping them find the answers they’re looking for. A writer and filmmaker whose favourite trips have been to film festivals in Cuba and South Korea, and campervanning around the USA, she loves getting to know new people and seeing a glimpse of the world through their eyes.

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Heart Condition Travel Insurance

Compare cover from as little as £8.71*.

Tommy has over 15 years experience within the insurance industry, and his primary focus is helping travellers find the right cover for their medical conditions.

Travel insurance for people with heart conditions

We understand how difficult it can be to find competitive travel insurance when you have a heart condition - so we’re making it easier for you!

With Medical Travel Compared , you can compare fast quotes for specialist travel insurance for pre-existing heart conditions in a matter of minutes.

Compare heart condition insurance policies across over 30 well-known and reliable insurance providers to find excellent cover at an amazing value. You’ll find suitable travel insurance for someone with a heart condition in no time - meaning you can get back to planning your holiday!

There are a number of things to consider when travelling with a heart condition, so it’s important to ensure you have the right travel insurance to give you the peace of mind you need to enjoy your holiday.

Specialist Medical Cover

We only work with providers who specialise in covering pre-existing conditions.

No discounts. No pressure. We’ll always show you the best prices from providers.

Do I need to declare my heart condition for holiday insurance?

It’s important to declare any heart conditions in order to compare quotes for the specialist cover you need.

This applies if:

• You’ve recently been diagnosed and are receiving treatment for a heart condition
• You’ve EVER been diagnosed with a heart condition in the past
• You’ve had a heart attack - but since made a full recovery

Getting a quote with us is easy and quick. 

During the process, it’s likely that you will need to answer some questions based on the specific nature of your condition.

The answers you provide enable us to gather more of an understanding of your medical history. This helps us to provide you with quotes from a range of different providers that you can compare.

What heart conditions can be covered with my travel insurance?

When it comes to heart-related conditions, there are many different types, and you may be wondering if yours will be covered.

The good news is that we can help you find cover for a variety of different heart conditions including: 

• Angioplasty
• Atrial Fibrillation
• Cardiomyopathy
• High Blood Pressure

You can even get travel insurance after a heart attack or travel insurance for heart failure for a lower price than you might imagine, and travelling after a heart event doesn’t need to be off-limits with the right cover and considerations.

Top tips for travelling if you've had a heart attack

Dr Sarah Jarvis is the Clinical Director of the Patient Platform, an active medical writer, broadcaster, and the resident doctor for BBC Radio 2.

Having a heart attack is understandably a scary experience but advances in treatment mean that survival rates have never been better. Having a heart attack certainly shouldn't stop you from enjoying holidays in the future, but you do need to take extra precautions.

• You need to declare any heart condition to your travel insurance company before you book if you've ever been diagnosed with a heart condition, including a heart attack, even if you've made a full recovery. If you don't declare this, it could invalidate your travel insurance.
• How soon you can fly after you've had a heart attack depends on your risk of another heart attack – never fly unless you've been advised by your medical team that it’s safe to do so.
• If you're at very low risk of a second heart attack, you may be able to fly in as little as three days after your heart attack, according to the NHS. However, this is unusual: you'd usually need to be under 65 years old, have no complications, have no history of a heart attack in the past and have no further treatment planned.
• If you're over 65 or have had a heart attack in the past, your doctor may advise you can fly 7 - 10 days after, so as long as you don't have any symptoms or complications and no more treatment is planned. As before, always check with your medical team that it's safe for you to fly.
• If you've had a heart attack, you should not drive for at least four weeks: this may be longer if you haven't made a full recovery. If you're planning to hire a car while abroad, check the regulations in the country you're travelling to before you get behind the wheel.
• Many people with heart attacks have high blood pressure. This shouldn't stop you from flying as long as your blood pressure is controlled.
• If you've had a heart attack, you'll almost certainly be taking several medications to reduce your risks – including medicine to lower your blood pressure and cholesterol and prevent your blood from clotting too easily. Order your medication from your GP well in advance, to make sure you have enough for the whole length of your holiday. Ideally, take a few days' extra supply in case of problems or delays while you're abroad.
• Carry your medication with you in your hand luggage, along with a copy of your repeat prescription and a letter from your doctor if needed. Check you know the rules about carrying medicines in your hand luggage and taking medication abroad .
• Hot weather can put extra strain on your heart. Do make sure you avoid getting dehydrated and over-exposed in the sun. Remember that the sun's rays are usually at their most powerful between 11am and 3pm local time.
• If you've had a recent heart attack or heart surgery, avoid destinations at very high altitudes: air is thinner especially at more than 2,000 metres above sea level and this can increase the risk of angina or shortness of breath.
• Oxygen levels in aeroplane cabins are a little lower than at home, but if you can walk up a couple of flights of stairs without too much shortness of breath, you shouldn't have problems.
• Exercise is actively encouraged for those who have had a heart attack, as it can greatly strengthen your heart and lungs as well as help reduce the risk of another heart attack. However, do avoid strenuous exercise you're not used to, especially in hot weather, while you're on holiday and don't suddenly start doing a lot of exercise if you're not used to it: after a heart attack, you need to build up gradually.

What is covered by heart condition travel insurance?

This usually varies from provider to provider. 

Broadly speaking - any given travel insurance policy will include the following: 

• Cancellation
• Medical expenses & repatriation
• Theft/loss of belongings
• Personal accident

Cover will also depend on the nature of your condition (as per the answers you provide during the medical screening process, see below) and also whether you choose to select any optional extras. 

The level of cover will depend on the type of heart condition you have. Providers will also take into account your medical history.

There are also optional extras you can add to your policy such as gadget cover . 

And, depending on the type of holiday you’ve booked and activities listed on your itinerary - you might also be interested in cruise holiday cover or even winter sports cover .

Travel insurance for children with heart conditions

Under 16s with heart conditions can also be covered. 

You just need to declare their pre-existing conditions on their behalf when comparing quotes for travel insurance. 

This applies to single trip and annual trip policies - as well as family and group travel insurance policies.

Compare quotes from specialist heart condition insurance providers

Using our online quote comparison tool couldn’t be easier. The process literally takes minutes - so you can get back to the more exciting part of planning your holiday before you know it!

First of all, we need to know a few personal details about you and your trip. Then you can select the type of cover you need - whether that's single trip cover or an annual multi-trip policy (don’t forget to add optional extras if you need them!).

Then, you can declare your heart condition(s) including details on whether you have a pacemaker before comparing quotes. It’s as straightforward as that.

And, because we work with over 30 specialist medical travel insurance providers, you won’t struggle for choice!

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Trusted by thousands of people like you who've reviewed us on Trustpilot.

No phone calls or paperwork. Join millions who've sorted cover online in minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is simple and quick to do! After you've told us about your trip details and answered some medical history questions you can add your pre-existing conditions, one by one, for each traveller. You'll only need to enter your details once, it's all online and there's no need to call, or provide details of your conditions in writing.

Once you've declared all your relevant pre-existing medical conditions, we'll only show you quotes based on the conditions you have told us about.

* Price is based on 1 traveller aged 61, who has declared Atrial Fibrillation and is travelling to France for 7 nights. The price is correct as of April 2024. Prices may vary according to your individual requirements.

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Don't just take our word for it...

If we're unable to help you find cover for a pre-existing medical condition , the Money Helper Directory has listings of companies that may be able to assist you. Further details can be found on their  website.

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Travel advice for those who have suffered heart attacks. Expert medical travel advice for planning your holiday and comparing travel destinations!

More than 2 million people in the UK live with arrhythmias or heart problems. Here are some tips which you may find useful when travelling with Arrhythmia.

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• Introduction to credit card travel insurance and standalone travel insurance
• What are credit card travel protections?
• What is travel insurance?
• Credit card travel protection vs. standalone travel insurance
• Frequently asked questions

Credit Card Travel Insurance vs Travel Insurance: A Comparative Guide

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

• Travel insurance and some credit cards can protect you from financial loss while traveling.
• Travel insurance offers more comprehensive coverage that includes emergency medical expenses.
• Credit card travel protection has more gaps but comes at no additional cost for cardholders.

Anything can happen while traveling. Flight delays, lost luggage, or even unexpected injury or illness can interrupt your vacation. When these things occur, travel insurance or the travel protections included with your premium credit card may be able to help, providing medical coverage, offsetting your financial losses, or even reimbursing you fully.

But do you need both travel insurance and credit card travel protections? Here are details on both and tips for deciding what the best travel insurance is for you.

Introduction to credit card travel insurance and stand-alone travel insurance

Many credit cards offer travel protections that can help you in certain unexpected travel situations. But they aren't exactly the same as a separate travel insurance policy.

Here's how the two differ at a high level:

• Travel insurance:  Travel insurance is coverage that you purchase for a single trip or multiple trips in a year. It typically covers the costs associated with trip cancellation, trip delays, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen events that may occur while traveling.
• Credit card travel protections:  These are benefits automatically included with certain consumer credit cards. They often provide coverage for delays, lost baggage, rental car collisions, and other events during travel. Credit cards sometimes advertise these protections as a type of travel insurance, though they're not a separate insurance policy.

Generally speaking, designated travel insurance is more exhaustive than the protections offered by a credit card. Still, it's worth it to compare both options, particularly if you're taking an expensive trip. 

"It is always wise to check your credit card protection against a travel insurance plan," says Carol Mueller, a vice president at Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection . "Credit card protection may not include the full, bundled, comprehensive coverage a travel insurance plan would."

What is credit card travel insurance ?

Many premium credit cards offer travel protections to cardholders, but the exact coverages depend on the credit card. Typically, only trips booked with that card qualify for coverage.

"Credit card travel insurance has one big advantage that interests travelers: it's usually free or included in the card's annual fee," says Daniel Durazo, director of external communications at Allianz Travel Insurance , a travel insurance provider. "Credit cards' travel benefits can be useful for smaller things, like travel delays or lost bags, but only travel insurance provides reliable protection in real emergencies, like expensive medical emergencies such as hospital visits and evacuations."

In some cases, however, a credit card may cover catastrophic accidents. The Chase Sapphire Reserve, for example, offers up to $1,000,000 worth of coverage for an accident that causes loss of life, speech, hearing, or use of a hand, among other life-altering injuries.

Additionally, credit card coverage limits tend to be much lower. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers up to $20,000 per trip in cancellation coverage, while a basic travel insurance plan from Travel Guard offers five times as much coverage.

Pros and cons of credit card travel protection

What is stand-alone travel insurance .

Travel insurance protects you from financial losses related to travel. "There are three main areas of coverage: protecting yourself, protecting your personal items, and protecting your investment," says Christina Tunnah, general manager of Americas and global marketing at World Nomads Travel Insurance , a travel insurance and safety services provider.

Travel insurance works much like any other insurance policy. When a covered event occurs, like your trip is canceled or you're hurt while traveling, you file a claim with your insurer. If accepted, the company reimburses you for the costs up to your coverage limits.

"Most people have no idea that their health insurance does not cover them abroad," says Shane Mahoney, founder of Lugos Travel, a travel advisory. "So, a broken arm from a slip and fall or a heart attack can be financially devastating."

Travel insurance customers typically have 90 days to file their claim. But once the event occurs, there's no waiting period, meaning travelers should file as soon as possible.

A major factor when filing a successful claim is proof of financial loss. You can use something as simple as a medical clinic receipt or a doctor's medical statement. Once the claim has been reviewed and approved, your insurer will reimburse you via check. Some modern travel insurance companies offer immediate payment via a debit card mailed to travelers before their trip.

Travel insurance providers go beyond your standard credit card or airline coverage. You can buy policies that cover sports equipment, medical, and other coverages. You can also buy Cancel for Any Reason insurance, which covers trip cancellations regardless of the reason. The best CFAR insurance can cover 100% of your costs, but many only cover a percentage. 

Buyers can also price out annual travel insurance plans , which cover all of your trips within a 12-month period. Meghan Walch, director of the InsureMyTrip website, estimates a 4% and 10% travel insurance cost based on your total prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs. If you're buying an annual policy, this figure will change.

Pros and cons of stand-alone travel insurance

Credit card travel protection vs. stand-alone travel insurance.

Deciding between stand-alone travel insurance and credit card travel protection can be difficult. That said, it's worth mentioning that these choices aren't mutually exclusive. Even if you have a credit card that provides travel protection, you can still opt for additional coverage with a stand-alone travel insurance policy.

Cost considerations

The obvious difference between credit card insurance and a stand-alone policy is the cost. While credit card insurance is usually included in the cost of the card, traditional travel insurance is an additional expense, usually between 5% to 6% of the trip's worth, though rates can range from 4% to 12%.

However, travel insurance may pay for itself, covering emergency medical expenses and evacuation."Most people have no idea that their health insurance does not cover them abroad," says Shane Mahoney, founder of travel advisory company Lugos Travel. "So, a broken arm from a slip and fall or a heart attack can be financially devastating."

On the other hand, credit card travel protections don't come at any additional costs. However, many of the best travel credit cards come with annual fees. Additionally, a credit card's travel protection only applies to trips you book with that credit card. If you don't pay off the credit card immediately, you'll pay interest on your trip. 

If you don't already have a credit card with travel insurance included, you'll also have to determine if the coverage is worth applying for a new credit card.

Comparing coverage and benefits

In most instances, traditional travel insurance policies will have more comprehensive coverage than credit card travel insurance. They'll cover more reasons for trip cancellation, and some may cover cancellations for no reason. They'll also cover medical emergencies, while credit card travel protections don't.

"Some travel insurance policies also provide epidemic coverage endorsements, which provide coverage to customers who become ill with COVID-19 or a future epidemic, are individually ordered to quarantine, or are denied boarding due to a suspected illness," says Durazo.

Separate travel insurance policies also tend to offer more robust cancellation coverage. Credit card protections often cap reimbursement at just $10,000 a trip, while travel insurance usually goes up to $100,000. Most credit cards will only cover trips purchased with the card or reward points.

Situations best suited for each

Both travel insurance and credit card protections can prove helpful if your trip is canceled or you experience some other loss while traveling, but the right choice will depend on the specifics of your exact trip and budget. "Every trip is different, and every traveler has different needs and concerns," Walch says. 

For example, travelers with more health concerns may opt for stand-alone travel insurance. Longer, more expensive, and international trips may also warrant greater coverage that credit card travel insurance can't provide. Additionally, it may be a good idea to insure trips to high-risk areas, either politically unstable regions or areas with inclement weather.

On the other hand, Walch says, "For a short trip to a family member's house in the US, the travel insurance offered through the credit card may suffice."

Credit card travel insurance comparison frequently asked questions

Credit card travel insurance may offer basic coverage for international trips, but it often lacks comprehensive medical coverage.

Yes, you can use both for the same trip. Stand-alone policies can supplement areas where credit card insurance is limited, such as medical coverage.

Most credit card travel insurance does not cover pre-existing medical conditions. Many stand-alone policies don't cover pre-existing conditions, but you may find some coverage with certain stipulations.

Credit card travel insurance is usually automatically activated when you pay for a trip using that card. However, it's important to read the card's policy for specific activation requirements.

While credit card travel insurance can be more cost-effective since it's a benefit of the card, it may not provide as comprehensive coverage as a stand-alone policy. In the long run, you may end up losing money if you solely rely on credit card travel insurance.

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Election latest: Farage responds after Reform campaigner filmed making 'very prejudiced' comments

Nigel Farage has responded to footage from a Channel 4 report showing Reform campaigners using racist and homophobic language in Clacton - the constituency where the former UKIP leader hopes to be elected.

Friday 28 June 2024 01:00, UK

• General Election 2024

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• Starmer defends plan for VAT on private schools
• Analysis: Labour campaign has a central paradox
• Reform campaigner said migrants should be used as 'target practice'
• Hugh Grant backs Greens co-leader in key contest
• Sunak won't say if he told aide election date before bet
• Exclusive: PM's top adviser interviewed by Gambling Commission

Election essentials

• Manifesto pledges: Conservatives | Greens | Labour | Lib Dems | Plaid | Reform | SNP
• Trackers:  Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Campaign Heritage:  Memorable moments from elections gone by
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts:  Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more:  Who is standing down? | Key seats to watch | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency is changing | Guide to election lingo
• How to watch election on Sky News

We'll be back at 6am with all the latest from the final week of the general election campaign.

There are just six days of campaigning left until the polls open on 4 July, and political parties from across the House of Commons are busy trying to win your votes.

Join us from the morning for more live updates.

Until then - read all the latest from Sky News below:

The Metropolitan Police has been dragged - reluctantly, as I understand it - into investigating candidates a week out from the election. 

Even 24 hours ago this was not the case - Scotland Yard wanted to take care of their own - the officers probed by the Gambling Commission - and no more.

But as the days have dragged on, it's clear the issue has become more complex, and now gone beyond the scope of the Gambling Commission.

What has changed is a realisation by investigating authorities that they need to look into whether some candidates may have broken the law on misconduct in public office.

This is beyond the remit of the Gambling Commission, which began the initial probe, and now falls to the police.

This means the prospect of mainly Conservative candidates, including the prime minister's closest aide, potentially being interviewed under caution, maybe even this side of election day.

You could see how tetchy the subject made Rishi Sunak in the interview with the broadcast pool earlier today.

Read Sam's full analysis here:

With our coverage here on the Politics Hub drawing to a close, here's everything you need to know as the election campaign entered its final week - and a sneak preview of what we have coming up tomorrow. 

• Sir Keir Starmer  has told Sky News there is "no evidence" private schools will be forced to close due to  Labour's plans to impose VAT on them ;
• Speaking to  Sky's Sophy Ridge,  the Labour leader defended his party's education policy to use the money to support state schools;
• He also vowed to "hit the ground running" should he become prime minister, saying cutting NHS waiting lists would be Labour's first priority in government.
• A Reform UK campaigner has been filmed saying migrants crossing the Channel should be used as "target practice";
• In   footage recorded by a Channel 4 undercover reporter , the same campaigner used a racial slur against Rishi Sunak;
• Another Reform figure was filmed making homophobic remarks ;
• Party leader Nigel Farage has described comments in the footage as "very wrong".
• Rishi Sunak  has refused to say if he told one of his closest parliamentary aides the date of the election  before he placed a bet on it ;
• Craig Williams , who has now been suspended as the Conservative candidate in Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr,  admitted  he "committed a serious error of judgment" but "not an offence";
• The  Metropolitan Police  have issued an update on their investigation into bets being placed on the date of the election - there are now  seven officers under investigation;
• Meanwhile, Mr Sunak's most senior adviser in Downing Street has been interviewed in the investigation. Sources have emphasised to Sky News that he is not a suspect.

Join us tomorrow morning for a new episode of Sky's  Electoral Dysfunction   podcast - and this time we've got someone very much outside the Westminster bubble.

Joining our  political editor  Beth Rigby   and  Ruth Davidson  this week is none other than  Rylan Clark .

👉  Tap here to follow Electoral Dysfunction wherever you get your podcasts  👈

The next government is being urged to tackle an "appalling" rough sleeping crisis as new figures show a record high in London. 

A total of 11,993 people were seen rough sleeping in the capital in the year to March, according to the latest Combined Homelessness and Information Network (Chain) statistics.

That is the highest figure ever recorded on the database, and marks a 58% increase compared to 10 years ago.

The "appalling" increase reflects a "crisis, both in the capital and across the country", said Rick Henderson, chief executive of Homeless Link, the membership body for frontline homelessness services in England, which manages the Chain database.

He said the next government "must create a cross-government plan to prevent rough sleeping and homelessness through delivering genuinely affordable and secure homes quickly, whilst making sure there are a diverse range of properly-funded homelessness services to help people address the root causes of their destitution and move on from rough sleeping for good".

The St Mungo's homeless charity said the next government must "treat homelessness as an emergency and prioritise it in their first 100 days".

According to the latest available figures for England, published in February, the estimated number of people sleeping rough on a single night in autumn in 2023 was 3,898 - more than twice that of the figure in 2010.

Racist and homophobic remarks filmed as part of a Channel 4 investigation   during the Reform UK campaign were "inappropriate," chairman of the party Richard Tice has said. 

Speaking at a Reform UK event in Boston with party leader Nigel Farage, Mr Tice said: "We put a statement out and it's all self-explanatory in the statement.

"The reality is that we're a fast-growing movement, and when you've got unpaid volunteers, some people behave inappropriately. And they're gone."

In footage recorded by a Channel 4 undercover reporter, a Reform UK campaigner has been filmed saying migrants crossing the Channel should be used as "target practice".  He also used a racist slur against Rishi Sunak (see previous post).

Another Reform figure was filmed making homophobic remarks.

Mr Farage has described remarks in the footage as "very wrong".

A Reform UK campaigner has been filmed saying migrants crossing the Channel should be used as "target practice". 

In footage recorded by a Channel 4 undercover reporter , the same campaigner used a racial slur against Rishi Sunak. 

The clips were recorded in Clacton, where Reform leader Nigel Farage is a candidate. 

Responding to the footage, Mr Farage has said the comments were "very wrong".

"There was an activist that said some pretty unpleasant things," he said.

"Very very prejudiced, very wrong.

"He's somebody who turned up to help ... all political parties encourage volunteers."

He added that the campaigner in question would "not be welcome back" and that the two other figures featured in the footage would also no longer be working with the campaign. 

In the footage, the undercover reporter captured canvasser Andrew Parker talking about people coming ashore at Deal in Kent.

Mr Parker said: "Army recruitment - get the young recruits there, with guns, on the f****** beach, target practice. F****** just shoot them."

Mr Parker said in a statement, sent to Channel 4 News: "I would like to make it clear that neither Nigel Farage personally or the Reform Party are aware of my personal views on immigration."

He added: "I have never discussed immigration with either Nigel Farage or the Reform Party and that any comments made by me during those recordings are my own personal views on any subject I commented on. At no time before I was sent out to canvass did I discuss my personal views with any representative of the Reform Party UK or Nigel Farage."

Another Reform figure was filmed reacting to a Pride symbol on a passing police car.  

He says: "You see that f****** degenerate flag on the front bonnet? What are the old bill doing promoting that crap?"

The other candidates for the Clacton constituency are:

• Jovan Owusu-Nepaul, Labour;
• Matthew Bensilum, Lib Dems;
• Craig Jamieson, Climate Party;
• Tony Mack, independent;
• Natasha Osben, Greens;
• Tasos Papanastasiou, Heritage Party;
• Andrew Pemberton, UKIP;
• Giles Watling, Conservatives.

Our live poll tracker collates the results of opinion surveys carried out by all the main polling organisations - and allows you to see how the political parties are performing in the run-up to the general election.

With just a week to go, the Tories and Labour have taken a drop, while support for Reform UK and the Liberal Democrats is on the rise.

Read more about the tracker  here .

The panel discussion is now turning to the Conservative Party's election campaign. 

Sky's  election commentator  Adam Boulton   says it has been "dreadful", adding Rishi Sunak "hasn't brought anything to this campaign". 

A series of missteps have dominated the headlines from the outset when Mr Sunak announced the election in the pouring rain.

But as the campaign enters its final week there may now be a moment of respite for the Conservatives, Adam says. 

"Almost the best thing about this campaign is the most irritating for a lot of people," Adam says.

"He's timed it to coincide with the Euros, with Wimbledon, with Glastonbury, which actually means the last week, it'll have to be a pretty big gaffe for anyone to notice."

That brings tonight's Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge to an end - the show will return tomorrow with Ali Fortescue . In the meantime, stick with us here for more news and analysis through the evening.

By Ashna Hurynag , news correspondent

The battle for Scottish votes is all to play for.

An exclusive YouGov poll for Sky News has Labour on 35% in Scotland and the SNP on 29%.

The latter are closing the gap, but if all goes this way on the night, such a result would mean big gains for Labour.

But the biggest gutter punch is dealt to the Conservatives who YouGov has on 11% and level with the Lib Dems.

But attitudes change when voters consider where to cast their ballot in the 2026 Holyrood elections.

As of the 18 June, voter intentions shifted to 28% for the SNP, 24% Labour, 10% Conservatives and 7% for the Lib Dems.

This tells us Scots treat UK and Scottish elections differently. 

It also suggests the former creating an opportunity for a protest vote - a cry of frustration at 14 years of Tory governments at Westminster, or the firing of a warning shot at the SNP’s record after 17 years at Holyrood.

But so many are still undecided.

1,059 people over 16 were surveyed by YouGov between the 20 and 25 June, exclusively for Sky News, and 14% of people surveyed have changed how they plan to vote over the past four weeks.

Of those, 37% say it was down to how the parties and their leaders have conducted themselves.

The NHS and health care are the key issues, followed by the cost of living next, the economy in general, immigration, and Scottish independence.

Rishi Sunak's most senior adviser in Downing Street has been interviewed in the investigation into bets by Conservatives on the date of the general election.

Liam Booth-Smith, Downing Street chief of staff, was interviewed last week by senior Gambling Commission officials and questioned about who knew about the timing of the election.

Sources have emphasised to Sky News that Mr Booth-Smith is not a suspect in the gambling investigation and was interviewed as a witness and was "asked for help".

Described as the prime minister's most trusted ally, Mr Booth-Smith has worked for Mr Sunak since he was chancellor, when his fondness for leather jackets earned him the nickname "the Treasury Travolta".

According to a Gambling Commission insider, Mr Booth-Smith was interviewed by "senior officials within the Gambling Commission, more senior than investigators".

Sky News has also been told there are currently no plans to interview the prime minister as part of the investigation into bets on the election date.

Read more here:

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