Travel insurance with a medical condition: what to declare and compare

Travel insurance is not bought simply by selecting the cheapest premium. A traveller with a disability, reduced mobility or a medical condition needs to know whether the policy covers the condition, the planned journey and the equipment relied upon during it.

This article is general information, not a recommendation of a particular policy or financial advice. Read the policy wording and ask the insurer about anything material to the trip.

Declare conditions accurately

Answer the insurer’s medical-screening questions completely and honestly. The wording and period covered by those questions vary, so do not decide independently that a diagnosis, recent investigation, change of medication or hospital visit is irrelevant. If health changes between purchase and departure, check whether the policy requires an update.

MoneyHelper explains the issues involved in obtaining travel insurance with a pre-existing medical condition and provides impartial guidance backed by the UK government.

Check the medical cover, not just the headline limit

Look at emergency medical expenses, repatriation, transport to appropriate treatment and the conditions attached to these benefits. Find out who must be contacted before non-emergency treatment and how a companion’s accommodation or return journey is treated.

Cancellation and curtailment need realistic values

The cover should reflect non-refundable flights, accommodation, equipment hire and transfers for everyone insured. Check whether cancellation arising from a declared condition is included and what evidence is required. Package and independently arranged trips can leave different components with different refund rights.

Mobility equipment may have a low sub-limit

Do not assume a high baggage limit provides equivalent protection for a wheelchair, powerchair or scooter. Check:

• whether owned mobility equipment is covered;
• the single-item and valuables limits;
• exclusions for unattended equipment or batteries;
• repair, replacement and temporary-hire costs;
• whether airline or carrier liability is applied first; and
• the evidence needed for ownership and value.

Hired equipment normally remains subject to the rental agreement. Ask whether the policy covers contractual liability, accidental damage or theft of hired mobility equipment and read any exclusions.

Assistance is not the same as medical cover

Airport assistance helps a passenger navigate the airport and aircraft journey; it does not replace travel insurance, a carer or clinical support. Similarly, a hotel and equipment provider do not normally provide personal care. Plan those services separately and tell the insurer about relevant arrangements when asked.

Compare excesses and practical claims processes

A cheaper policy with separate excesses for each person or section can perform differently from one with a single event excess. Check the emergency contact, whether calls are available around the clock, what documents must be retained and whether treatment must be authorised.

If mainstream quotes are difficult

MoneyHelper maintains a specialist travel insurance directory. It says listed firms are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and have demonstrated relevant specialism. This can be a useful route when prices are very high or cover is refused.

Before buying, make a trip summary

If Mobility Abroad later introduces a carefully matched affiliate insurer, any commercial link will be clearly labelled and will not replace comparison of policy terms. See our affiliate disclosure.