Travel Insurance with Heart Conditions

The British Heart Foundation estimates that there are upwards of seven million people in the UK living with a heart condition. At Holiday Extras, we believe that heart conditions shouldn't stop you from experiencing the joy of travelling. With travel insurance policies tailored to suit those with pre-existing medical conditions, we provide medical cover against unforeseen incidents that could impact your holiday.

Why choose Holiday Extras?

• - Over 25 years experience selling travel insurance.
• - Voted best insurance provider 12 years running.
• - Tailored policies to suit your personal requirements.
• - Policies with no excess available.
• - UK-based contact centre and 24/7 helpline.
• - All medical conditions considered.

Voted best Insurance provider 12 years in a row, we've got you covered

Our travel insurance for those with a heart condition offers protection with both our single trip and annual travel policies, as well as cruise medical cover. Included, are benefits of up to £5,000 if your holiday needs to be cancelled, up to £2,000 if your luggage is lost, and up to £10 million in medical expenses. Cover is available for travel in the UK, Europe and worldwide. We cover the majority pre-existing medical conditions and all medical conditions will be considered. This includes all heart conditions as well as travel insurance after a heart attack.

Compare cover levels for travel insurance with heart conditions

Our travel insurance is available at bronze, silver, gold and platinum levels.

How do I declare my heart condition?

Declaring your pre-existing medical condition is quick and easy. Simply enter your travel details at the top of this page, and you'll be directed to our medical screening process. You'll then be asked a series of questions regarding your condition. Answer these honestly, as it will not only help us to give you the most suitable policy for your individual needs, but is also imperative, should you need to make a claim. Rest assured, the information you provide will be treated with the utmost care and confidentiality.

Here are some examples of the questions you may be asked during your health screening. It may be worth having any medical information close to hand to further aid the screening process.

• Have you ever had a heart bypass, an angioplasty or a coronary stent?
• Have you ever been a smoker?
• How long ago was your most recent procedure?
• How many heart attacks (if any) have you had in total?
• Have you EVER had any chest pain or chest tightness since your last procedure?
• Are you waiting to see a specialist about new symptoms? Or awaiting any tests, results or surgery?
• Can you always walk 200 metres on the flat with no chest pain or tightness or breathlessness?
• Do you ever have any chest pain or tightness or breathlessness at rest?
• Have you been advised to take medication for high blood pressure?
• Have you been advised to take medication to lower your cholesterol?
• Are you currently taking any medication for your heart condition?

Can you fly with a heart condition?

Most people with a stable heart condition can fly without any problems or without needed any special assistance. However, it's worth checking with your doctor before you depart to see if you will need any prior preparation before flying. Regardless of the current state of your heart condition, it's recommended that you let your airline know ahead of time of your condition, so that they are aware and can make any arrangements dependent on your requirements.

Tips for travelling with a heart condition

Consult your doctor before travelling

The first thing you should do before travelling with a pre-existing medical condition is book an appointment with your GP. They will be able to give you advice on several topics, including how to prepare for travelling, as well as dealing with your condition while actually away. They will also be able to provide you with a medical note documenting your condition and the names and doses of any medication you are currently taking. This could prove invaluable if you need to secure additional medication while away. You may want to request a copy of your electrocardiogram (ECG) to take with you too, should a specialist need to see it while abroad.

Do your own research

There's an abundance of information online concerning travelling with a heart condition. Some great examples include the NHS and British Heart foundation.

Carry emergency contact information

As well as carrying emergency contact numbers for your GP and family, it's worth noting down in advance and medical numbers relating to the country you're visiting.

Pack enough medication for your entire trip

Make sure you have enough medication for your trip, with a little extra. This will eliminate being short on medication in the event of delay or cancellations. As well as bringing a list of your medications provided by your doctor, it might be worth researching the local names of the medications and information on where to secure a prescription, should you need more medication.

Be mindful of dietary requirements

Although often difficult while in a foreign country, if you are on a specific diet for your heart condition at home, try to follow your diet as closely as possible while away. Certain foods can exacerbate symptoms, and depending on where you're travelling too, salt levels in food can be extremely high in some instances.