A medical issue can send quotes for travel cover soaring, but experts warn it is not worth risking going abroad without a policy.
"I nearly fell over when I saw the travel insurance quote," says retiree Bernie Lawrence, 77, from Fleet, Hampshire. After he developed heart problems, the cost of buying cover became "astronomical".
Lawrence, who usually travels with his wife, Barbara, 79, says he had always been active and fit before suffering chest pains while out running in 2018. Nine days later, he underwent quadruple bypass surgery.
"It's a real shock when you see the premiums, but you simply cannot afford to travel uninsured."