Let’s be honest. We over-50s are fabulous, fearless, and far from finished. We’ve got more stamps in our passports than hot dinners, and we know how to handle ourselves in a market in Marrakesh or a monsoon in Mumbai. But there’s one tiny thing we can’t negotiate our way out of with charm and a sensible pair of sandals – our health.
If you’ve got a pre-existing condition (or three), you might feel like the travel insurance world is trying to bench you. But worry not, wanderer – this guide is here to help you find cover that actually covers you, so you can sip that sangria without fretting over your sciatica.
What Counts as a Pre-Existing Condition?
In insurance-speak, a pre-existing condition is any medical issue you’ve been diagnosed with or treated for before your trip – regardless of how long ago. That could include:
High blood pressure
Diabetes
Asthma
Cancer (current or in remission)
Mental health conditions
Heart disease
Joint replacements (hello, titanium knees!)
Even a pesky gallbladder that’s since been evicted
So yes, the NHS knows your entire medical backstory, and now your travel insurer wants in too.
Why You Absolutely Must Declare It
I get it. No one wants to list their health issues like a shopping receipt. But here’s the deal: if you don’t declare your conditions and something happens that’s even remotely linked, your policy may be void. That means no reimbursement, no medical support abroad, and potentially a bill the size of the national debt.
Travel insurance is like Spanx – it works best when it’s covering everything.
The Big Questions Answered
Do I Really Need Insurance?
Yes, you do. Even if you’re just hopping across the Channel for some cheese and chardonnay. A simple fall, flare-up, or fainting spell can cost thousands abroad, especially outside the EU.
Will It Be Expensive?
Not necessarily. It can be pricier if your condition is ongoing or complex, but there are companies who specialise in covering mature women with medical histories as colourful as our holiday wardrobes.
Can I Travel With Confidence?
Absolutely! With the right policy, you can gallivant around the globe knowing you’re protected from sky-high hospital bills and medication mishaps.
Best Travel Insurance Providers for Pre-Existing Conditions (UK-based)
Here are a few insurers that cater specifically to people like us – fabulous, adventurous, and occasionally a bit high maintenance health-wise.
1. Staysure
Why it’s good: They specialise in cover for travellers over 50 and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Their screening process is straightforward, and they don’t penalise you for having a history.
Highlights: Unlimited medical expenses, COVID-19 cover, cruise cover add-on
👉 Visit Staysure
2. AllClear Travel Insurance
Why it’s good: AllClear is a go-to for those with more complex medical needs. They cover hundreds of conditions – from mild to major – and you can get a quote even if other providers have said no.
Highlights: Available up to age 100, 24/7 emergency helpline, award-winning customer service
👉 Visit AllClear
3. Saga Travel Insurance
Why it’s good: Tailored specifically to the over-50 crowd, Saga provides cover for a wide range of conditions and includes UK-based customer support.
Highlights: No upper age limit, optional gadget cover, multiple trip options
👉 Visit Saga
4. Avanti Travel Insurance
Why it’s good: Known for flexibility and customer care, Avanti lets you tweak your policy to fit your needs, and they’re particularly strong on customer reviews.
Highlights: Unlimited emergency medical cover, cruise cover, flexible cancellation
👉 Visit Avanti
5. InsureandGo
Why it’s good: Covers a wide variety of pre-existing conditions, and their website makes it easy to declare medical issues and get an instant quote.
Highlights: Optional travel disruption cover, family and solo policies, emergency assistance
👉 Visit InsureandGo
Tips for Finding the Right Policy
Use a comparison site. Try Medical Travel Compared – they specialise in comparing policies for people with medical conditions.
Be honest. Seriously. They’re not judging. It’s better to pay a little more than get stuck in a foreign hospital with zero support.
Check for exclusions. Look out for sneaky small print – some policies won’t cover you for complications from conditions you forgot to mention or medications you’re not taking as prescribed.
Get a GHIC. If you’re travelling in the EU, your UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is a must-have. It’s free and gives you access to state healthcare – but it’s not a substitute for insurance.
Don’t Forget These Handy Extras
Cruise cover: If you’re setting sail, make sure your policy includes cruise-specific benefits like missed port cover and onboard medical costs.
COVID-19 cover: Still a thing, unfortunately. Check if cancellation due to COVID is included.
Activity cover: Planning to hike Machu Picchu or just try paddleboarding in Portugal? Make sure it’s included – even gentle pursuits can void your policy if not declared.
Real Talk: What Happens If You Get Ill Abroad?
Let’s paint a picture. You’re in Florence, admiring the view with a gelato in hand. Suddenly, that minor heart flutter you thought was just love for the architecture gets worse. You end up in hospital. With the right insurance, here’s what happens:
Your medical bills are covered.
Your insurer contacts your next of kin.
You get repatriated if needed (possibly even business class, silver lining!).
You can focus on recovery, not invoices.
Without insurance? Well, Florence is lovely, but I doubt you want to sell your house to pay for its A&E.
FAQs (Because We Like to Be Thorough)
Q: Can I get annual cover with a pre-existing condition?
A: Yes! Many providers offer multi-trip policies. Just make sure every condition is declared and the countries you’re visiting are included.
Q: Do I need to tell them about medication changes?
A: Yes. Always update your insurer if your health status changes before you travel – even if it’s just a new blood pressure tablet.
Q: Can I still travel if I’ve had cancer?
A: Absolutely. Many insurers cover travellers with a history of cancer. You might pay a bit more, but you can still explore the world, warrior that you are.
Final Word from a Fellow Travel-Loving 50+er
You’ve made it this far in life with stories, scars, and a suitcase full of dreams. Don’t let your health history stop you from sipping wine in Tuscany, dancing in Cuba, or yoga-ing in Bali. Get the right insurance, pack your meds, and get out there.
Just don’t forget your reading glasses. Or your charger. Or your sensible walking shoes. (Yes, you can be stylish and comfy.)
