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Can I get travel insurance if I have a heart condition?
We can offer travel insurance for people with a range of heart and circulatory conditions, including heart disease and ischemic heart conditions after recovering from a heart attack or surgery, and if you have a pacemaker fitted.
Make sure you let us know your full cardiac history and any other pre-existing conditions when you get a quote. We’ll need to know that your condition is stable, and your doctor confirms you can travel.
Why get travel insurance for heart conditions with Staysure?
We’re experts in covering pre-existing conditions, including heart conditions.
We’re the UK’s number one travel insurance provider, based on Trustpilot reviews.
We offer tailored quotes by understanding your heart health.
We provide 24/7 emergency medical assistance worldwide.
How Staysure travel insurance for heart conditions works in three easy steps
To get cover, you’ll need to declare your heart condition and any other pre-existing conditions to us when getting a quote for travel insurance.
1. Tell us about your trip
We’ll need a few quick details to get started:
If you need cover for one trip or multiple trips.
Who the insurance is for.
Where you’re going and how long for.
2. Let us know about your heart condition
Our simple medical screening helps us understand you better and the care you could need abroad.
Some of the things we’ll ask include:
Your diagnosis.
Any medication or treatments.
How your condition affects you.
Don’t forget to let us know about any other pre-existing medical conditions.
3. Get your quote
If you complete the screening and we can cover you, your tailored quote will be available to view online, and emailed to you. It includes travel insurance tailored to cover your condition(s).
Explore and choose from three levels of cover to suit your needs (as below).
Choose optional add-ons to tailor your quote to your trip, including winter sports or cruise plus benefits.
What does travel insurance for heart conditions cover?
We understand the worry that your heart condition could mean needing urgent medical attention abroad. If you need it, we’ll be there.
Our policy covers emergency care, including:
Emergency treatment and hospital admission.
24/7 emergency support worldwide while abroad.
Specialist cardiologist consultations.
Emergency surgery if required.
Oxygen therapy if needed.
Treatment for cardiac complications.
Ambulance services and medical transport.
Care for conditions worsened by heat, altitude or travel stress.
Our 24/7 emergency team includes specialists to coordinate your care with local medical providers.
If your medications are lost, damaged or stolen, it can be stressful. With our Comprehensive and Signature policies, we offer Personal Assistance Services for situations just like this.
That support includes:
Help finding local pharmacies that stock your medications.
Connecting you with English-speaking health professionals.
Support with confirming prescriptions.
Please note, the cost of replacements is not a covered expense.
If your health means you need to cancel or cut your trip short, we’ll get you home safely without the extra expense. That includes travel to the airport, any medical assistance or accommodation you need en-route, and cancellation costs up to the agreed amount as per your cover level.
How much is travel insurance with a heart condition?
The cost of your travel insurance is tailored to your individual circumstances and travel plans.
Things we consider include:
What heart conditions do you have.
Ongoing treatment or medication.
Where you plan to travel and the length of your trip.
Your age and overall health.
You can find out how much your policy costs in minutes using our straightforward medical screening when you get a quote.
Proud to be a part of BIBA's medical directory
For people who have trouble finding travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions, the British Insurance Brokers' Association (BIBA) has a directory of specialist insurers, like us!
To find out more, or if on the odd occasion we are unable to provide the cover you need, contact BIBA on 0370 950 1790. You can also search BIBA's medical directory online.
Flexible cover add-ons to suit you
Tailor your insurance to your trip with optional add-ons. Everything you need, covered under one policy.
A trip can be a great way to reduce stress and anxiety when you’ve got a heart condition.
“If your doctor gives you the green light to travel, don’t let your heart condition stop you from making plans. Whether you’re dreaming of seeing the sights or digging into the local cuisine, having travel insurance can help you enjoy your trip with confidence.”
Other conditions we cover at Staysure
We’re experts in travel insurance for pre-existing health conditions. Just let us know your conditions when you fill out your quote, or contact us to amend an existing policy.
Being prepared for travelling with a heart condition can help you enjoy the things you’ve planned.
Pre-travel checklist for travelling with a heart condition
Speak to your GP about your overall condition and physical ability – are you fit to fly and travel?
Ask your GP for suitable travel destinations and vaccinations, including flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.
Check with your destination’s embassy if you need a signed doctor’s letter to travel with any medicines or equipment – some doctors may charge for this service, which isn’t covered by travel insurance.
Depending on your condition, you may want to request a recent ECG to take with you.
If you’ve got an implanted device, check if there are pacing clinics in the area you’re travelling to.
Make sure you have enough medication and medical supplies for the whole trip, with a few extra days in case of delays.
Consider accommodation that’s easy to get to and close to facilities like restaurants and shops.
Contact the airline, accommodation, and any tour or activity guides to inform them of your condition and arrange any special help, such as a wheelchair or extra oxygen.
Take a look at some more travel tips from a senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation.
Beth Craig
Travel insurance expert
If you’re ready to explore, we’re here to insure your trip.
“When you have a heart condition, travel insurance is more than just a piece of paper. You need to know that you can rely on it. Let us know your complete cardiac health when you get a quote, and tell us if anything changes.”
Tips for travelling with a heart condition
Whether you have high blood pressure, have had a heart attack, or have circulatory artery disease, you might have ongoing medication and treatment needs.
If you bring medication, keep them in their original packaging with your prescription in case you need medical help. It might be helpful to pack them in your hand luggage and suitcase in case any baggage is lost or delayed.
Speak to your pharmacist for advice on:
Adjusting your dose timings to the local time zone.
How to properly store and transport them if they need to be refrigerated.
Any side effects you need to look out for while travelling, such as managing fluid intake when taking diuretics.
If you’ve had a heart attack and are still having cardiac rehabilitation, speak with your cardiac rehab team so they can change your programme to fit with your travel plans.
Here are some things you’ll want to consider when packing for your trip.
Loose-fitting comfortable clothes and a wide-brimmed hat.
Easily removable layers and pocket handwarmers if you’re travelling somewhere cold.
Sunscreen – some medication can cause sun sensitivity so it’s important to wear sunscreen every day, even if it’s not sunny!
Lightweight, breathable shoes with a well-cushioned heel to support swollen feet.
A compression garment – ask your GP if you need one to prevent blood clots and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) when flying.
Any prescribed medication and devices, plus copies of prescriptions.
General medication like anti-nausea, anti-diarrhoea, and painkillers.
Going on a trip can be a time of relaxation for people with a heart condition. Consider these things to help you stay as relaxed as possible on your travels.
Stay hydrated – it’s easy to forget when you’re away but dehydration can put extra strain on your heart.
Bring a handheld fan or hot packs to keep your body at a comfortable temperature.
Try the local cuisine – but if you have high blood pressure or blocked arteries you may want to avoid salty and fatty foods.
Be aware of your physical condition – plan breaks and speak to your doctor for advice on what activities you can do.
Get some rest – book a room away from noisy main streets and close to a lift, reception, or an emergency exit.
Let people know about your condition – speak to your accommodation and activity or tour staff in advance so they can provide the proper care if needed.
It’s worth taking these documents with you so you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
A signed doctor’s letter summarising your medical history, including recent treatments, current medications and medical equipment like oxygen.
Your most recent ECG – especially if you have an irregular heartbeat or cardiomyopathy.
Copies of your prescription.
A device identification card if you have an implanted device such as a pacemaker or an ICD.
A printout of any agreed special travel arrangements.
Lists of local healthcare services and their contact numbers.
Proof of your health and travel insurance and contact numbers.
Your GHIC if you’re travelling in Europe – remember, this doesn’t replace travel insurance.
If you don’t have a GHIC, want to find out more, or currently have an EHIC, read our GHIC guide for more information.
Common questions for travelling with a heart condition
If you have a heart condition, only your doctor can advise on what’s right for you.
This includes being able to fly if you have:
Angina
Atrial fibrillation
Cardiomyopathy
Blocked arteries, including carotid artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, and intermittent claudication
High blood pressure and high cholesterol
Heart failure
Coronary heart disease
Had a recent heart attack or heart bypass that you are recovering from
Most people who have a stable heart condition can fly. But some will need some extra help, for example with getting around the airport or needing extra oxygen during the flight.
For a valid policy, it’s important we know about any heart condition you have or have had in the past.
If we don’t know, we won’t be able to cover you if you need to make a claim.
Here are a few of the heart conditions we can cover:
Remember to include all your pre-existing conditions when getting a quote.
If you want to find out more, have a chat with a friendly member of our support team on 0333 014 4512. Our opening times are listed below.
Monday - Friday: 8.30am - 8pm
Saturday: 9am - 5.30pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
A pacemaker shouldn’t stop you from flying. If you have a pacemaker or any implanted device, it might help to call the airline in advance to let them know.
As good as travel insurance is, some things can’t be covered.
You’re not covered for:
Travelling against your doctor’s advice.
Claims for pre-existing medical conditions you haven’t told us about.
Routine check-ups, planned treatment or non-emergency care.
Travel for medical procedures abroad.
Reimbursement for lost, damaged or stolen medicines or equipment.
Incidents related to alcohol or controlled substances.
Strike action that was common knowledge at the time of booking.
Choosing private treatment when suitable public facilities are available.
Choosing not to travel.
Discover more about what travel insurance covers. Always check your policy documents carefully to understand exactly what you’re covered for.
When comparing travel insurance policies for heart conditions, you’ll want to look out for what’s covered and what’s not.
The right travel insurance should:
Agree to cover your heart condition and any other pre-existing conditions you have.
Cover medical expenses, including necessary emergency travel home.
Have a high medical cover limit.
Help you replace lost, stolen or damaged medications.
Cover you for cancellations or interruptions during your trip.
Include 24/7 emergency assistance services while abroad.
Learn more about what’s covered under our medical insurance for pre-existing medical conditions, or get a quote.
In an emergency, contact the local emergency services first, and then call our 24-hour emergency helpline. Our team will help arrange your care, find the most appropriate place for treatment and follow up care.
Our helpline is open 24/7, 365 days a year:
Calling from outside the UK: +44 1403 288 414
Calling from USA or Canada: +1 844 780 0639
Calling from Mexico: +1 819 780 0639
Calling from the UK: 01403 288 414
If you or someone on your policy is admitted to hospital or your outpatient treatment is likely to cost more than £350, contact us as soon as possible. Where you have a valid claim, and your medical expenses exceed £350 we will look to settle the bill directly with the medical provider where possible.
If you have a non-urgent medical concern, such as sickness, headaches, or mild pain, contact our helpline first for advice on where to go for assistance.
Stay in control of your account with My Staysure
You can make changes to your policy, online and in your own time with My Staysure.
We know you don’t always want to wait in call queues. So if you need to make changes, like updating traveller details or renewing a policy that isn’t changing, visit your My Staysure account.
Related pages
Staysure speaks to BHF specialist nurse Maureen Talbot, who gives her advice to those travelling with coronary heart disease.
Up to unlimited emergency medical expenses
