Travel insurance for heart conditions

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. 

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. 

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: 

• Angina 

• Atrial fibrillation 

• Cardiomyopathy 

• Heart attack 

• Heart conditions, includes blocked arteries, heart bypass, heart failure, heart diseases, ischemic heart conditions (coronary heart disease) and heart conditions with fibrillation  

• High blood pressure and high cholesterol 

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.