Travel insurance for high blood pressure

UK residents made 86.2 million visits abroad in 2023 and many of those on the move each year will have diagnosed health conditions, such as high blood pressure (hypertension) or diabetes. Medical issues don’t stop people from travelling, but do they prevent holidaymakers from getting travel insurance?

Can I get holiday insurance with high blood pressure?

Many insurers provide travel insurance for hypertension as long as the condition is controlled. You will most likely be asked some screening questions and your age and other medical conditions will also be taken into account.

Do you declare high blood pressure on travel insurance?

Yes, you should declare hypertension otherwise your insurance might not be valid if you make a claim. And if you’re not covered, you could end up having to pay medical costs abroad yourself if you need any treatment related to the condition.

When you declare high blood pressure, your insurer may ask you a bit more about it, such as:

• have you had any medical treatment for the condition?
• when did you last see a doctor about it?
• what medication are you taking for it?
• are you awaiting any medical procedure or investigations?

Is high blood pressure considered a pre-existing condition for travel insurance?

Yes, it’s a diagnosed condition that needs medical monitoring. As such, like other ongoing health issues it will increase the cost of your cover because it may also increase the likelihood of you making a claim.

By adding this pre-existing condition to your policy, you’ll be covered for the cost of any unexpected medical care for the high blood pressure, as well as associated illnesses, while you’re away.

Can you get travel insurance with blood pressure associated problems?

Over the long term, hypertension can lead to the narrowing and stiffening of arteries, which puts people at higher risk of developing other cardiovascular conditions, such as heart attack and stroke. You can still get travel insurance with a heart condition and Saga has experience in providing cover for customers who have this type of medical history.

What will travel insurance for high blood pressure cover?

A policy that includes cover for high blood pressure will also include all the standard features of your policy. For medical-related claims, including for hypertension, you’ll be covered for:

• Emergency medical expenses up to the level on your policy schedule
• Repatriation if deemed medically necessary
• Cancellation or abandonment – remember to buy travel insurance that includes cancellation cover as soon as you book your trip in case a health issue means you have no option but to cancel.

Can you fly with high blood pressure?

It’s generally fine to fly if you’ve got high blood pressure, as long as your condition is well-controlled. If it’s unstable or very high, check with your GP before travelling.

For anyone flying with a health condition – or anyone just wanting to arrive at their destination in the best possible shape – follow this simple health advice when flying:

• Give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport to avoid unnecessary stress
• Stay hydrated – you can refill your own water bottle after security to take on board
• Move around where possible and do regular leg stretches and ankle rotations
• Consider wearing compression stockings on a long-haul flight
• Avoid salty foods and alcohol on the aircraft.

How else should I prepare when travelling with high blood pressure?

Get your Global Health Insurance Card

Check you’ve got a valid EHIC/GHIC card to entitle you to necessary state healthcare in countries and territories with reciprocal agreements. You can apply for a new one through the NHS website and use it in combination with your travel insurance.

Pack enough medication

Make sure you’ve got adequate medication for the entirety of your trip including if your return journey is delayed. Pack a prescription too just in case anything unexpected happens.

Keep your policy details updated

Any health changes should be communicated to your travel insurance provider. If you’re under investigation or awaiting test results at the time of travel, they may not be able to cover you.