The UK offers a variety of tourist attractions, from historical landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace to cultural experiences such as the hometown of Shakespeare and the music scene epitomized by The Beatles.
Visitors can also enjoy traditional pubs and afternoon tea. In addition to tourism, the UK is a common destination for study abroad programs and business trips.
However, it’s important to note that the UK’s cost of living is among the world’s highest.
In particular, if you’re not covered by insurance, you could end up with a substantial financial burden.
| Details of the illness | Medical expenses claimed |
| Collapsed at a hotel after complaining of feeling unwell and was transportedby ambulance. Diagnosed with a subdural hematoma, underwent surgery, and was hospitalized for 32 days. | $83,700 |
| Complained of abdominal pain and went to the hospital. Diagnosed with acute appendicitis, underwent surgery, and was hospitalized for 4 days. | $20,000 |
| After continued fever and coughing, went to the hospital. Diagnosed with hepatitis E, underwent surgery, and was hospitalized for 43 days. | $37,500 |
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There are cases where unexpected health issues lead to high medical expenses. To prepare for such situations, it is crucial to purchase medical insurance before traveling.
The following travel insurance services offer comprehensive coverage at affordable prices and can be easily purchased online:
This article explains the importance of medical insurance when traveling to the UK, and introduces recommended travel insurance services that can be easily applied for online.
The UK Healthcare System (NHS)
The UK’s healthcare system is based on the National Health Service (NHS).
NHS is a public health system that, in principle, provides free healthcare services to all residents within the UK.
Medical Services Provided Free by NHS
- General practitioner (GP) consultations
- Hospital consultations and surgeries
- Emergency medical care (including ambulance services and treatment at
- emergency hospitals)
- Maternity services and prenatal check-ups
- Some mental health services
However, certain services, such as prescription drugs, dental care, and eye exams, generally require an out-of-pocket payment.
A way to avoid this is by purchasing international medical insurance.
Is Medical Insurance Required for UK Travel?
In some European countries, especially those that are part of the Schengen Agreement, travelers may be required to provide proof of medical insurance upon entry.
For example, in the Czech Republic, it is mandatory to have medical insurance when entering and staying in the country. If you are not insured or cannot provide proof, you may be denied entry or fined.
Reference: Which Countries Require Travel Insurance When Entering the Country?
In contrast, medical insurance is not mandatory for entry into the UK.
The UK is not part of the Schengen Agreement and does not require travelers to have medical insurance for entry or stay.
However, medical costs in the UK are high. It is important to have medical insurance to cover illnesses or injuries during your trip.
UK Medical Costs (if not covered by NHS)
Here is a reference for typical medical expenses for travelers receiving treatment at public healthcare facilities in the UK.
| Cost | Description | |
| General Diagnosis | $180~$300 | Consultation with a specialist. Additional costs may apply if tests or treatments are required. |
| X-rays or MRI Scans | $250~$1200 | Costs for imaging diagnostics such as X-rays or MRI scans. The price varies depending on the type of machine and the test. |
| Ambulance Use | $300~$500 | The cost of dispatch and transport by ambulance. Additional fees may be charged for long-distance transport or emergency medical procedures. |
| Prescription Medication Costs | $12 | A standard fee is paid per prescription, but additional charges may apply for expensive or special medications. |
| Dental Treatment | $30~$350 | Basic check-ups and simple treatments are relatively inexpensive, but advanced treatments such as extractions, fillings, or crowns can be more costly. |
* If you are viewing on a smartphone, you can scroll left and right.
Even a general consultation can cost up to $300, and if more detailed tests are required, the cost for diagnosis alone can reach up to $1,200.
To manage these high medical expenses, it is highly recommended to purchase medical insurance before traveling to the UK.
Examples of High Medical Expenses in the UK
If you experience minor health issues or need treatment for an injury while traveling in the UK, the medical expenses may be higher than expected.
Here are some examples of travelers who incurred high medical expenses while receiving healthcare in the UK.
| Details | Medical Expenses |
| While studying abroad, experienced pain in the shoulder blade and arm spasms, and was diagnosed with a cervical disc herniation. | $20,000 |
| Complained of abdominal pain and was diagnosed with acute appendicitis, requiring 13 days of hospitalization and surgery. | $49,500 |
| Severe abdominal pain led to a diagnosis of kidney and ureteral stones, resulting in 6 days of hospitalization and surgery. | $22,800 |
| While out for a walk, experienced chest pain and was diagnosed with pneumothorax, requiring 25 days of hospitalization and surgery. Medical transport with a doctor and nurse was arranged. | $64,500 |
| During studies abroad, complained of severe abdominal pain and was diagnosed with ovarian torsion, leading to 4 days of hospitalization and surgery. | $30,100 |
| After falling in the bathroom and hitting the chest, the next day while sightseeing, became pale and was diagnosed with hemopneumothorax, requiring 3 days of hospitalization and surgery | $38,800 |
| The accident occurred at home while getting out of bed, leading to fractures of the humerus and femoral neck. Required 17 days of hospitalization and surgery, with medical transport accompanied by a nurse. | $33,450 |
* If you are viewing on a smartphone, you can scroll left and right.
As mentioned above, medical costs in the UK can be quite burdensome. Travelers must bear these medical bills themselves.
To enjoy your trip with peace of mind, it is advisable to enroll in health insurance before traveling.
Travel Insurance Available Online
If you unexpectedly fall ill or get injured while traveling in the UK and need medical treatment there, you may incur medical expenses that are higher than expected. Particularly, if you require emergency transport, surgery, or hospitalization, bills may reach several thousands of dollars.
To prepare for any unforeseen troubles and enjoy your travels with confidence, please consider the following three recommended overseas travel insurance options.
1. SafetyWing
Safety Wing is an excellent overseas travel insurance option for long-term stays and digital nomads, offering comprehensive coverage at an affordable price.
If you are looking for a reliable insurance plan that ensures peace of mind during unexpected situations while traveling, Safety Wing is an ideal choice.
Features of SafetyWing
- The monthly premium is $56.28
- Coverage can be started from a minimum of 5 days
- Immediate enrollment is available with no waiting period during overseas stays
24/7 live chat support - Coverage for flight delays and lost baggage
The specific details of the insurance are as follows:
| Coverage Type | Coverage Limit | Examples of Coverage |
| Medical Insurance | $250,000 | Hospitalization, nursing care, ambulance for hospitalization, MRI diagnosis, long-term care after discharge, prescriptions, complications of pregnancy. |
| Emergency Dental Treatment | $1,000 | Emergency dental treatment to resolve acute pain (sudden and unexpected onset). |
| Emergency Transport | $100,000 | Costs for emergency transportation to to an equipped hospital. |
| Medical Return | $5,000 | Emergency return expenses for medical reasons. |
| Emergency Return (Family Death) | $5,000 | Travel expenses for emergency return due to family death. |
| Lost Checked Baggage | $3,000 | If baggage is not found after 10 days of being reported lost (up to $500 per item). |
| Flight Delay | $200 | Meal and accommodation expenses for delays over 12 hours (maximum $100 per day for 2 days). |
| Passport Theft | $100 | Costs for reissuing a stolen passport or visa. |
| Car Accident | $250,000 | Accidental car accidents that occur while holding a valid license and wearing safety gear. |
| Trip Interruption (Return) | $250,000 | Reasons necessitating return due to family death. |
| In the Case of Death | $20,000 | Costs for transporting the body back to Japan (guarantee of $10,000 for local burial). |
* If you are viewing on a smartphone, you can scroll left and right.
SafetyWing is a convenient and comprehensive travel insurance that can be easily obtained online with a simple application process.
In addition to offering up to $250,000 in medical coverage, it also covers general medical insurance, making it a cost-effective choice.
Try a free quote now!
Nomad Insurance for $56.28/month
* Easy estimate of insurance premiums according to your travel plan!
2. World Nomads
World Nomads is a reliable travel insurance option that provides extensive coverage of up to $5 million, even in countries with very high medical costs, such as the United States.
It allows for easy addition or update of plans during your travels, enabling you to adapt flexibly to sudden changes in plans, so you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
Features of World Nomads
- Insurance rates vary depending on the destination
(e.g., for insurance covering 4 weeks including the U.S., the monthly rate is $265.07). - The maximum medical coverage limit is $5 million
(with unlimited plans available). - Coverage for flight delays and lost baggage.
- 24/7 support (phone/email).
The specific details of the insurance are as follows.
| Coverage Type | Coverage Limit | Examples of Coverage |
| Medical Insurance | $5 million | Hospitalization, nursing care, emergency ambulance for hospitalization, MRI diagnostics, long-term care after discharge, prescriptions, etc. |
| Emergency Dental Treatment | $300 | Emergency dental treatment to resolve acute pain (sudden and unexpected onset). |
| Medical Transportation | $500,000 | Costs for emergency transportation to a well-equipped hospital. |
| Medical Return | $500,000 | Costs associated with emergency return due to sudden illness or injury. |
| Emergency Return | $5,000 | Transportation costs for emergency return due to a family member’s death. |
| Baggage Coverage | $2,500 | Coverage for theft, damage, or loss of baggage that occurs during travel. |
| Flight Delay | $500 | Compensation for additional accommodation and transportation costs incurred due to flight cancellation or delays over 12 hours. |
| Trip Interruption (Return) | $3,500 | Costs for returning due to family illness or death. |
| Death | $15,000 | Transportation costs for repatriation of remains to Japan, or costs for local burial. |
* If you are viewing on a smartphone, you can scroll left and right.
It offers medical coverage plans of up to $5 million or unlimited coverage, allowing you to continue your travels with peace of mind in case of emergencies.
Additionally, you can easily add or update your insurance during your trip, making it flexible enough to accommodate long-term travels or changes in plans.
First, check the World Nomads website for a quote that fits your travel plans!
3. Heymondo
Heymondo is known for its excellent cost-performance ratio and wide range of coverage, making it particularly popular among digital nomads.
It offers various plans suitable for both short trips and long-term stays, allowing you to customize an insurance plan that fits your travel style.
Features of Heymondo
- A cost-effective 3-month plan for long-term travelers is available.
- Insurance premiums vary depending on the country you are traveling to.
- The maximum medical coverage limit is $5 million (or $1 million).
- Coverage for flight delays and lost baggage.
- 24/7 support (phone/email).
The specific details of the insurance are as follows:
| Coverage Type | Coverage Limit | Examples of Coverage |
| Medical Insurance | $5 million | Hospitalization, nursing care, ambulance for hospitalization, MRI diagnosis, long-term care after discharge, prescriptions, etc. |
| Emergency Dental Treatment | $300 | Emergency dental treatment to resolve acute pain (sudden and unexpected). |
| Extended Stay Cost | $1,800 | Emergency transportation costs to a well-equipped hospital. |
| Medical Return | $5 million | Emergency return costs for medical reasons. |
| Emergency Transport | $5,000 | Transportation costs for emergency return due to a family member’s death. |
| Baggage Coverage | $1,700 | Transportation costs for emergency return due to family bereavement. |
| Flight Delay | $450 | Meal and accommodation expenses for delays over 12 hours (maximum $100 per day for 2 days). |
| Trip Interruption (Return) | $3,500 | Costs for return due to family death or similar circumstances |
| In the Case of Death | $100,000 | Costs for transporting the body back to Japan (guarantee of $10,000 for local burial) |
* If you are viewing on a smartphone, you can scroll left and right.
It offers comprehensive coverage, with the standard plan “Travel Insurance Top” providing up to $5 million and the premium plan “Travel Insurance Premium” offering up to $10 million in medical insurance.
If you are planning a trip to the UK, check the Heymondo website to get a quote for insurance that fits your travel schedule!
Thank you for reading until the end!!
For those looking for the best travel insurance, please check the following page: The Best Nomad Insurance; We highly recommend SafetyWing [$56/month]
The above page carefully selects popular travel insurance services and provides detailed explanations of each service’s features and benefits. You are sure to find the perfect insurance plan for your needs.
