Having a heart condition doesn’t stop you travelling, but it does change how you buy travel insurance. The key is to declare everything accurately and compare more than one type of insurer. This isn’t medical advice, so speak to your doctor about whether you’re fit to travel.
What counts as a heart condition for insurance?
Insurers ask about a wide range of conditions, including heart attack, angina, heart failure, irregular heartbeat, stents, bypass surgery, pacemakers, valve problems and, in some questions, high blood pressure. They may also ask about symptoms you’re being investigated for, or tests you’re waiting on. See travel insurance with high blood pressure or cholesterol.
What insurers typically ask
- Your diagnosis and when it was made
- Treatment, procedures or surgery and when they happened
- Medication you take and any recent changes
- Hospital admissions or outpatient visits, and when your last one was
- Whether you’ve had chest pain, breathlessness or other symptoms recently
- Whether tests or investigations are pending
The process is explained in what is a medical screening.
Possible outcomes
You may be covered at the standard price, covered with an extra premium, offered cover with the condition excluded, or declined. An exclusion could leave you with no cover for the very thing most likely to cause a claim, so read it carefully. See pre-existing conditions.
Getting the right cover
- Compare mainstream and specialist insurers. Specialists often do better for complex conditions.
- Use the MoneyHelper directory if you’ve been declined or quoted a very high price. See how to use the MoneyHelper directory.
- Check the medical limit for your destination. See travel insurance for the USA.
- Check cancellation cover for health-related reasons. See cancellation cover.
Practical tips
- Take a list of your medication and your doctor’s contact details.
- Keep medication in your hand luggage, with spares.
- If you have a pacemaker or implant, carry your device card.
- Ask your doctor whether you need a fit-to-fly letter, as some airlines request one.
- Tell the insurer about changes after you buy the policy.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to declare a heart condition for travel insurance?
Yes. You must answer the insurer’s medical questions honestly and in full, or a claim could be refused.
Can I get travel insurance after a heart attack?
Often yes, though the price may be higher and some insurers will decline. Specialist insurers and the MoneyHelper directory can help.
Does a pacemaker affect travel insurance?
It’s usually declared as part of your medical history and may affect the price. Carry your device card when you travel.
Should I tell the insurer if my medication changes?
Yes. Tell your insurer about changes before you travel, as they may affect your cover.
Related travel insurance guides
- What Happens If You Get Ill Abroad Without Travel Insurance?
- How to Use the MoneyHelper Travel Insurance Directory
- Travel Insurance After Cancer: How to Find Cover
- What Does Travel Insurance Cover? A Plain-English UK Guide
- How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost in the UK in 2026?
This article is general information, not financial or insurance advice. Always read the policy documents before you buy.
