There might be some extra things to think about when travelling with cancer, but don’t let it hold you back!
It might still be possible to travel depending on your cancer stage. You just need to have the right travel insurance that covers your condition.
Not sure what type of cover you need, or just want some extra tips about travelling with cancer? Our handy guide is here to help.
Can I travel abroad with cancer?
Yes, you can still go abroad if you have cancer. But you need to speak to your doctor first to make sure you’re well enough and it’s safe for you to travel.
They can give you advice on what you need to take with you and help you stay safe while you’re away.
Is cancer a pre-existing condition?
When it comes to insurance, cancer is a pre-existing condition.
Whether you’ve had cancer in the past or you’re living with it, you need to tell your insurer about it.
Take a look at our guide to pre-existing conditions.
Can I get travel insurance if I have cancer?
Yes, you can get travel insurance if you have cancer. But it might be more difficult and expensive, depending on your condition and what stage you’re at.
You might need to find a specialist insurer to cover you. That’s where MoneyHelper can help.
At Admiral, if we can't cover your medical condition, you can use the MoneyHelper directory. It can help you find a specialist insurer who might be able to cover you if you've been:
- refused travel insurance or had your policy cancelled
- offered cover with a medical exclusion that you can't remove from your policy
- quoted a price for a travel insurance policy with high medical costs
Access the MoneyHelper directory online or call MoneyHelper on 0800 138 7777. Phone lines are open Monday to Friday 8:00am to 6:00pm, excluding bank holidays.
What does cancer travel insurance cover?
Travel insurance can help cover the cost of:
- emergency medical treatment
- lost, stolen or damaged medication
- getting you back home if a doctor recommends it
It can also cover things like:
- if your trip is cancelled through no fault of your own
- if you're delayed or miss your transport for an unexpected reason
- if your personal belongings are lost or stolen
You should always check your policy book, so you know what you are and aren’t covered for.
How much is travel insurance for cancer patients?
Travel insurance for cancer patients can be expensive. That’s because your policy needs to cover you for any medical emergencies you might have while you’re away.
When you get a quote for travel insurance, you’ll probably be asked:
- what type of cancer you have
- what stage your cancer is at
- what treatment you have had or are having right now
- any medication you’re taking
This will help insurers to decide if they can cover you and how much your policy will cost.
Travel insurance for cancer patients in treatment
If you’re currently having treatment, like chemotherapy or immunotherapy, you’ll need to find a travel insurance policy that covers it.
It’s super important to tell your insurer your full medical history and the treatment you’re having, so they can see if they can cover you.
Travel insurance for cancer patients in remission
You should be able to get cover if you're in remission or you've recently finished your treatment.
Insurers will ask the same questions to see whether they can cover you or not. They might ask to see a doctor’s note saying you’re in remission or no longer have cancer.
Travel insurance for terminal cancer patients
If you’ve been diagnosed with terminal cancer, you’ll most likely need to find a specialist insurer who can cover you.
Again, this is so they can make sure you have the right cover to protect you if there’s an emergency when you’re on holiday.
You’ll also need a doctor’s note saying you can travel.
Tips for travelling abroad with cancer
If you’re planning on travelling abroad and you have cancer, we want to make sure you’re safe and comfortable. Follow these tips to help you enjoy your journey...
Speak to your doctor before travelling
We’ve said it a few times – but it really is important to speak to your doctor before you jet off!
They’ll need to give you a doctor’s note and agree that it’s safe for you to travel.
Book any vaccinations you need
It’s always worth checking if you need any vaccinations, depending on where you’re going.
They can help protect you against diseases that you could get from dangerous animals, insects and diseases.
Book them in with lots of time to spare – ideally eight weeks before you travel.
Plan for emergencies
Whether you’re going through treatment or are in remission, it’s always best to plan for the unexpected.
Here are a few things to prepare:
- Take a list of your emergency contacts
- Know where the nearest hospital is
- Get travel insurance
You can find more on our website on what to do if you fall ill abroad.
Prepare your medication
Make sure you have enough medication with you to see you through your holiday. And take extra in case anything happens to it, or you lose your bags!
Read more in our article on travelling with medication.
Speak to transport and accommodation providers
If you need any extra support, speak to your travel provider and who you’re staying with.
The staff can make sure you have a comfortable journey and stay. And they can prepare for emergencies, helping you get medical attention quickly.
