A Guide to Travel Insurance for People with Pre-Existing Conditions and Serious Illnesses

Travel is a great way to explore the world and relax, but for people with pre-existing conditions, preparation before traveling needs to be more thorough. Travel insurance designed specifically for people with pre-existing conditions can not only provide regular medical coverage, but also cover special needs related to cancer, such as emergency medical evacuation, treatment interruption coverage, etc. This article will give you a detailed introduction on how to choose travel insurance for people with pre-existing conditions, helping you travel with peace of mind.

A Guide to Travel Insurance for People with Pre-Existing Conditions and Serious Illnesses Image by Tetiana Shyshkina from Pixabay

Benefits of Buying Travel Insurance for People with Pre-existing Conditions or Serious Illnesses

For individuals with pre-existing conditions or serious illnesses, travel insurance can be a crucial safeguard. It offers peace of mind by covering potential medical emergencies related to your condition while abroad. Many policies provide coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions, which means sudden and unexpected flare-ups may be covered. Additionally, travel insurance can offer benefits such as trip cancellation coverage if your condition worsens before departure, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation of remains.

You Cannot Buy Travel Insurance for These Pre-existing Conditions

While many travel insurance providers offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, some conditions may be excluded or result in declined applications. These often include terminal illnesses, conditions for which you’re awaiting surgery or test results, or recent major changes in your health status. Mental health conditions, pregnancy complications, and certain chronic diseases in advanced stages may also be challenging to insure. It’s crucial to disclose all health information honestly when applying for travel insurance to ensure valid coverage.

Look for These Travel Insurances in the UK if You Have a Serious Illness or Disability

In the UK, several insurance providers specialize in offering coverage for travelers with serious illnesses or disabilities. Some notable options include:

  • AllClear Travel Insurance: Known for covering all medical conditions and no upper age limit.
  • Staysure: Offers comprehensive coverage for pre-existing conditions and travelers up to age 85.
  • Avanti Travel Insurance: Provides tailored policies for those with medical conditions, including cancer.
  • Free Spirit: Specializes in coverage for people with pre-existing medical conditions and disabilities.

When searching for suitable insurance, look for policies that offer a clear and straightforward medical screening process, 24/7 emergency assistance, and high coverage limits for medical expenses.

Travel Insurance Prices for Different Age Groups (50-65, 65-75, 75-85, 85-95)

Travel insurance costs generally increase with age due to higher health risks. Here’s a general overview of how prices might vary across age groups:

  • 50-65: This group often enjoys relatively affordable rates, as many are still in good health. Prices may start to increase towards the upper end of this range.
  • 65-75: Premiums typically see a noticeable increase, reflecting the higher likelihood of health issues and claims.
  • 75-85: Expect a significant jump in prices, with some providers imposing restrictions or requiring more detailed medical assessments.
  • 85-95: Insurance in this age group can be costly and may require specialist providers. Some insurers have upper age limits, making coverage more challenging to find.

It’s important to note that these are general trends, and individual prices can vary greatly based on factors such as destination, trip duration, and specific health conditions.

When shopping for travel insurance, consider the following tips: - Compare multiple quotes from different providers - Look for age-specific policies that cater to your needs - Consider annual multi-trip policies if you travel frequently - Disclose all medical conditions to ensure valid coverage - Read the policy wording carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered


Age Group Estimated Price Range (Single Trip, 2 weeks, Europe)
50-65 £20 - £50
65-75 £40 - £100
75-85 £80 - £200
85-95 £150 - £400+

Travel insurance is a vital component of trip planning, especially for older travelers or those with pre-existing conditions. While prices generally increase with age, the peace of mind and financial protection offered by a comprehensive policy can be invaluable. Always shop around, compare policies, and choose coverage that best suits your individual needs and health status. Remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best – focus on finding a policy that provides adequate coverage for your specific situation.

The shared information of this article is up-to-date as of the publishing date. For more up-to-date information, please conduct your own research.