Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a general term which covers many persistent conditions affecting the lungs such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. There are approximately three million people in the UK with COPD. There are as many types of insurance policy as there are health problems and fortunately COPD travel insurance is possible to find at fairly reasonable prices whether you suffer from a mild or a more severe form of the condition.

Do I need to declare I have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease?

We would not suggest travelling without adequate travel insurance for any pre existing medical condition - even when a condition is mild. An undeclared condition could lead to problems if you need to claim. Chest infections are more common if you have COPD and can have more serious consequences. If a more serious situation develops you can face significant medical costs which may not be covered if your insurer considers the root cause was your COPD. Medical costs abroad can be very expensive and without adequate insurance cover you can end up facing financial ruin if you suffer from a health-related problem while abroad.

We have listed some of the companies on the right which will cover your condition, including some who do not load premiums for mild sufferers (although this is dependent on other factors such as age and medical history).

Benefits of COPD travel insurance

The main benefit of this type of insurance is that it allows travellers with COPD to go abroad with peace of mind and without having to worry about extra medical costs in case something happens. With this service, COPD holidaymakers are free to enjoy themselves just as much as as any other person on holiday.

If possible, try to use the same company to provide travel insurance for the whole party. If you have separate travel insurance policies and have to cancel because your travelling companion with COPD had to cancel, your travel insurance company may not pay out. If you are in this situation and are unable to get cover on the same policy discuss this with all travel insurers involved.

What are the requirements for COPD travel insurance?

In order to make an accurate assessment of your risk, an insurance company will ask for your medical history in order to tailor the insurance to your specific case. Typical questions are the following:

• Have you ever had a diagnosis made of chronic airways disease (eg chronic bronchitis or emphysema)?
• How long ago was the date of onset of your breathing problems?
• How many medicines do you take for your respiratory condition (count each inhaler as one medicine)?
• How many hospital admissions have you had for your respiratory condition in the last year?
• Have you needed treatment in an intensive care unit for this condition?
• Can you always walk 200yds on the flat without becoming short of breath?
• Have you ever been prescribed oxygen for use at home?
• Have you ever been a smoker / how long ago did you stop?

The price you pay for travel insurance with COPD can vary widely depending on the specific type or circumstances.

What our Experts say

"Having travel insurance is even more important when you have an existing medical condition such as COPD.

The insurers we work with are so experienced in looking after those who may need to cover a medical condition. Some of them even have telephone support which can make taking out a policy even easier."

Sally Wilson Moneymaxim Insurance Expert

Tips for finding the best COPD travel insurance

Something to bear in mind when looking for relevant travel insurance to cover a specific health condition is to remember that you should always tell the truth when making an application for insurance. If you do not reveal your full state of health and make a claim on your insurance at a later date, it could be invalid and you'd be left to cover full medical and repatriation costs back to the UK.

Where can I purchase COPD travel insurance?

COPD travel insurance can be purchased in many ways. You can even get a quote for pre-existing COPD travel insurance online or over the telephone. These days there are numerous platforms available, so purchasing travel insurance when in bad health can be solved within minutes.

This information is based on journalistic investigation and research. It is not financial advice. Any information should be considered in regard to specific circumstances. Any suggestions followed up are done so at your own risk and your own research is key.