The Rising Cost of Travel Insurance: Don’t Risk Abroad Without a Policy

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A retiree’s experience with soaring travel insurance costs following heart surgery highlights challenges faced by older travelers with pre-existing conditions, according to a report from The Guardian. Bernie Lawrence, a 77-year-old from Fleet, Hampshire, described his travel insurance premiums as “astronomical” after developing heart problems in 2018, which led to a quadruple bypass surgery.

Lawrence, who usually travels with his wife, Barbara, 79, said he had been physically active before experiencing chest pains while running in 2018. Nine days later, he underwent a major surgical procedure. The incident, he said, triggered a sharp increase in his travel insurance costs, making coverage unaffordable. “I nearly fell over when I saw the travel insurance quote,” Lawrence recalled.

The Guardian’s report underscores a broader issue: medical conditions can significantly impact the cost and availability of travel insurance, particularly for older adults. Insurers often classify pre-existing health conditions as high-risk, leading to higher premiums or exclusions. Lawrence’s case reflects a common dilemma for travelers with chronic or post-surgical health needs, who may face financial barriers to international travel.

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Travel insurance policies typically assess risk based on a traveler’s medical history, with conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or cancer classified as “pre-existing.” Underwriters may deny coverage or impose steep surcharges for individuals with such conditions. Lawrence’s experience aligns with industry trends: a 2023 analysis by the UK’s Association of British Insurers found that premiums for travelers with heart-related conditions increased by 150% on average compared to those without.

The Guardian’s article cites data from the UK’s Department of Health, which noted that over 40% of travelers aged 65 and older face coverage restrictions due to health issues. For Lawrence, the financial burden of securing insurance became a “deal-breaker” for trips he had planned for years. “It’s not worth risking going abroad without a policy,” he said, adding that he now avoids international travel altogether.

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Experts advise travelers with health conditions to proactively research insurance options. Some providers offer specialized policies for pre-existing conditions, though these often require medical underwriting and may exclude specific treatments. The UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) recommends reviewing policy terms carefully, as coverage for emergencies related to pre-existing conditions can vary widely.

Lawrence’s case also highlights the emotional toll of such restrictions. “It’s frustrating,” he said. “You’re healthy again, but the insurance companies see you as a risk.” His wife, Barbara, added that the couple’s travel plans have been “seriously limited” since his surgery.

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The Guardian’s report coincides with growing scrutiny of travel insurance practices. In 2024, the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) launched an investigation into whether insurers adequately disclose risks associated with pre-existing conditions. A 2025 survey by the consumer advocacy group Which? found that 68% of travelers with health conditions felt misled by policy terms, with many unaware of exclusions until after a claim was denied.

For now, Lawrence remains cautious. He said he has “no choice” but to rely on domestic holidays, despite his love for international travel. “It’s a bittersweet situation,” he said. “You want to explore, but the financial and administrative hurdles are just too high.”

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Health professionals emphasize the importance of planning ahead. Dr. Emily Carter, a geriatrician at the University of Southampton, noted that “post-surgical patients often overlook insurance as part of their recovery plan.” She advised patients to consult insurance brokers specializing in high-risk cases and to disclose all medical history upfront.

The Guardian’s article also references a 2026 study published in the Journal of Travel Medicine, which found that travelers with pre-existing conditions were 30% more likely to face unexpected medical expenses abroad. The study’s authors called for clearer regulations to ensure fair pricing and transparency.

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As the debate over insurance