cruise travel insurance with cancer

June 1, 2020

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A Guide to Travel Insurance for Cancer Patients

When you have cancer, what can travel insurance cover?

The benefits you receive depends on the type of plan you buy. You can see all available travel insurance plans here , or get a quote to easily compare plans and pricing. That being said, here are some of the situations in which travel insurance can protect cancer patients.

• You have to cancel your trip because of your cancer diagnosis. Trip cancellation benefits can reimburse you for pre-paid, nonrefundable travel expenses if you must cancel your trip for a covered reason. One common covered reason is when you or your travel companion suffer an illness, injury, or medical condition that’s disabling enough to make a reasonable person cancel their trip. Remember that a doctor must advise you (or your traveling companion) to cancel your trip before you cancel it — or, if that’s impossible, within 72 hours of the decision to cancel.
• You have to cut your trip short because your illness gets worse. If you’re already on your trip, and you become too ill to travel, trip interruption benefits can reimburse you for your unused, pre-paid and nonrefundable travel expenses. This benefit can also pay reasonable transportation expenses to continue your trip or return home. It can even pay additional accommodation and transportation expenses (up to the stated limit) if the interruption forces you to remain at your destination for longer than you’d planned.
• You suffer an unexpected medical emergency while traveling. Emergency medical/dental benefits can reimburse you for the cost of emergency medical care you receive while traveling for a sudden, unexpected illness, injury, or medical condition that could cause serious harm if it is not treated. The key words here are sudden and unexpected . Travel insurance can’t cover your medical emergency if it’s an expected complication of your cancer diagnosis or treatment.

Also, please understand that travel insurance can’t pay for planned medical expenses if you travel overseas to obtain treatment for cancer (or any other condition). Travel insurance will not pay for any non-emergency care, elective care, long-term care or experimental treatments, among other exclusions listed in your policy.

How can travel insurance help if a family member is diagnosed with cancer?

What if someone in your family is diagnosed with cancer right before you’re about to leave on a week-long vacation? There’s no way you’re going to leave their side — but your resort’s cancellation policy says clearly that no refunds will be given.

In situations like this, travel insurance can help. If a family member who’s not traveling with you develops an illness, injury, or medical condition that’s considered life-threatening or requires hospitalization, that can be a covered reason for trip cancellation. The same is true for trip interruption — if you’re already on your trip when a family member becomes seriously ill, then trip interruption benefits can pay for your transportation home, as well as reimbursing you for unused trip costs.

Read more: How Travel Insurance Covers Family Members

What if you’re diagnosed with cancer after you purchase travel insurance?

Let’s say you book a Mediterranean cruise for yourself and your spouse to celebrate your 25th wedding anniversary. You also purchase travel insurance to protect the trip. Six months later, a routine mammogram detects a lump in your breast, and you’re diagnosed with stage-2 breast cancer. You must undergo surgery and radiation, which means you won’t be able to go on your long-awaited cruise.

Travel insurance with trip cancellation benefits can be invaluable in situations like this, when you’re facing a cancer diagnosis. If your symptoms (or the side effects of treatment) are disabling enough to make you cancel your trip, and if your doctor advises you to cancel it, then trip cancellation benefits can reimburse you for your prepaid, non-refundable trip expenses. That way, you can reschedule the cruise for after you’ve recovered — and the sea breezes will be even sweeter.

Related Articles

• Travel Emergency Medical Insurance Explained
• Travel Insurance with Emergency Medical Benefits
• Travel Insurance 101: Covered Illnesses

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• Cruise/Travel Insurance

Cancer, Cruising and NCL Travel "Insurance"

By K80 Diver , August 23, 2023 in Cruise/Travel Insurance

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A warning to those of you cancer warriors (and/or survivors) out there.  Let my story be a lesson for you:

I have been under treatment for multiple myeloma (a cancer of the blood) since 2018.  I've gone through chemo, a stem cell transplant, weekly infusions, shots, pills, you name it. Since my diagnosis in '18, we've cruised six times on NCL (always buying NCL's offered travel "insurance").  I scheduled cruises around all my chemo dates and doctor appointments, travelled even when I was bald.  Last fall I traveled with over 150 pills for my ongoing treatment.  Not easy but I am a fighter!

Way back in August 2021, I booked an NCL cruise for April 2023 and bought their "insurance".  Like I said, I have been treated continuously for my cancer since 2018.  It's just the nature of dealing with this disease.  When one treatment failed, my doctor would then put me on another protocol.  In January 2023, my fourth line of treatment stopped working and my next course of action was to join a medical trial at Mayo to try a new drug.  This entailed harvesting my T-cells, genetically modifying them to fight the cancer, then putting those modified T-cells back into my body while staying in the hospital for 12 days in April.   Goodbye cruise, hello Mayo.

I cancelled our April cruise in January (89 days before sailing) and NCL of course penalized me 75% of the fare.  No surprise.  I then filed with Aon Affinity, the administrative company that handles NCL claims.  After sending piles of medical records, waiting for weeks, Aon denied my medical claim saying I had a "pre-existing condition".  Let me tell everybody out there how NCL's "Insurance" works.  I purchased the insurance in August 2021.  However, my policy did not become effective until December 23, 2022 -- the date when final payment is due.  The policy looks back 60 days prior to the effective date (October 25, 2022 through December 23, 2022) and claims that I was treated for cancer during that time and that's a pre-existing condition.  BUT WAIT!  The NCL "insurance" policy clearly states the definition of pre-existing condition "... does not apply to a condition that is treated or controlled solely through the taking of prescription drugs or medicine and remains treated or controlled without any adjustment or change in the required prescription throughout the sixty (60) day period before the Effective Date of Your Certificate." (emphasis added)

All these years of buying the NCL "insurance", I thought that if I was being treated for my cancer, then Aon could not deny a claim due to a pre-existing condition since I was ALWAYS being treated for my cancer.  Silly me.

I appealed their denial in late July.  Today I got back a denial of my appeal.  Oh brother.  What a royal pain!  Of course Aon tells me I can get 75% of what I lost back under the "Cancel for any reason" as a Future Cruise Credit.  Part of me says just give up and take the darn FCC.  Another part of me - the warrior I suppose -- says fight the appeal denial and file another appeal.  I think I have a strong case.  I'm ready to go to the consumer advocates here.

I just had to put this out to the Cruise Critic forum.  I imagine other people have perhaps hit this "insurance" denial as well for cancer.  Thanks for listening, and if anyone has some words of advice, let me know.

Now, for the rest of the story -- as Paul Harvey used to say.  The most important lesson?  The medical trial I am in was a huge success for me and I am now in complete remission.  It's truly a miracle and every day is a gift!

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KD - I Am very happy to hear about your complete remission as I Am sure you and your family are as well.. continued good health.

While I Am not familiar with NCL's insurance coverage, I can only posit that if it is 'similar' to third party policies, while pre-existing conditions are covered, yet a change in protocols to manage the conditions can trigger a denial.

Please re-read the coverages and exclusions related to 'pre-existing conditions' and I think it will spell out how these and similar situations will be handled. 

A caveat with insurance IME is "... if it is not specifically included, then it is excluded." unfortunately.

In health and many more bon voyages

https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/BookSafe-Travel-Protection-Plan_112514.pdf

NCL coverage excludes pre-existing conditions. See page 7. Your claim was denied under both provisions of the exclusion - first, because you were receiving ongoing treatment for a previously diagnosed condition and second, because your condition is not one that is controlled solely by taking a prescription drug, like high blood pressure or diabetes. It took a lot of other tests, procedures, and treatments to get you to that temporary stage.  

An appeal is not likely to be successful so take the FCC and rejoice that you are healthy again and can plan another trip. Before you book, talk to someone at The Trip Insurance Store who can explain how the pre-existing conditions exclusion applies to you now and whether you can qualify for a waiver. They even have policies that will cover those FCC’s.

In the meantime, I am heartened to know that your treatment was successful, not only for your sake but also for others who are facing or will face a daunting diagnosis. There is hope as long as one has access to the same level of care.

What kind words and beautiful thoughts so well expressed you two!  Yes, rejoice.  And yes, because of medical trials there is much knowledge gained in the treatment of this cancer which I know will help others too in the future.  So I have decided to just move on and learn my lesson.  Thank you for those nice replies!  

9 hours ago, K80 Diver said: A warning to those of you cancer warriors (and/or survivors) out there.  Let my story be a lesson for you:

I am also glad that you are doing well. 

@Babr and @Bo1953  both provided excellent info. But let me expand upon your warning for others in a similar situation.  Your warning does not apply to just NCL. Most of the plans offered by the major cruise lines have similar pre-existing conditions clause with a 60 day lookback period. In addition, unlike most third party travel insurance policies, most cruise line plans do not offer a waiver of pre-existing conditions. That waiver is critical for people in a similar situation.  It is also really nice to have for anyone, because the claims administrator will not ask for prior medical records when you file a claim.

Here are cruise line plan exceptions I am aware of:

• Holland America has no pre-existing conditions clause or cancelation reasons. The Platinum plan provides a 90% cash refund for any cancelation.  But, medical coverage is only $10K.
• MSC will waive the pre-existing conditions clause if the plan is purchased up to 24 hours after final payment. Medical is $25K.
• Viking will waive the pre-existing conditions clause if the plan is purchased up to 15 days after initial payment.  Medical is $100K (the only cruise line plan I am aware of that offers more than $25K).

Other Notes:

The pre-existing conditions clause applies not only to trip cancelation, but also to trip interruption and medical. Depending on the plan, some coverages such as trip delay, baggage and medical evacuation may not be subject to the pre-existing conditions clause.

Credit card travel insurance benefits are often more restrictive than the cruise line plans regarding pre-existing conditions.

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04 Feb Travel Insurance for Cancer Patients: What Does it Cover, and How Does it Work?

Planning an upcoming trip you might want to double-check your travel insurance coverage before you hit the road..

Recently in a story by the LA Times , Kathy Mutchler described her experience with the travel insurance company the Good Sam Club. Kathy pays $89.99 annually for the TravelAssist program, which says it covers medical evacuations if suitable care isn’t available locally. Kathy assumed that when she needed to be airlifted out of a Mammoth Lakes RV park after being diagnosed with a severe kidney infection, she was covered. Imagine her surprise when she received a $71,000 air ambulance bill, and a notice from Good Sam that her medical evacuation was not covered by their insurance. While many travel insurance policies allow policy- holders to bypass prior approval in emergencies, Kathy’s plan didn’t include this language. Since she didn’t get prior approval for her air ambulance (while she was barely able to stand due to her kidney infection), Kathy’s evacuation wasn’t covered by Good Sam.

Luckily for Kathy, her primary insurer Blue Cross did cover her medical evacuation. Kathy avoided that bill, but do you know what your travel insurance covers? If you or your loved one is dealing with a cancer diagnosis, leveraging this coverage can make traveling more affordable and secure, but should be used carefully. Whether you’re a policy-holder or in the market for travel insurance, read on to learn more about how these policies work.

What is travel insurance?

Travel-related insurance covers financial, medical, or other unforeseen expenses you run into while traveling. You can usually buy insurance when you book a trip to last for the duration of the tip. Some policies, like Kathy’s, are tailored for people looking for more long-term plans. You can purchase travel insurance from travel agents, travel insurance companies, or travel suppliers like cruise lines.

What does travel insurance cover?

Benefits vary widely by plan and insurance company, but travel insurance policies often cover:

• Travel Delay
• Trip Cancellation
• Loss, theft, or damage to personal possessions
• Medical & Dental expenses
• Emergency evacuation
• Oversees funeral expenses
• Accidental death, injury, or disablement
• Legal assistance
• Death of an immediate family member
• Personal liability and rental car damage

Your cancer diagnosis may be considered a pre-existing condition. Most travel insurance policies treat a cancer diagnosis as a pre-existing condition, which is often defined as an injury, illness, or medical condition, that within 120 days before you purchase your policy:

• Caused you to seek medical examination, diagnosis, care, or treatment from a doctor
• Presented symptoms; or
• Required you to take medication prescribed by a doctor (unless that condition or symptom is controlled by the medication prescribed)

You can likely apply for a waiver which allows you to be covered for losses caused by your cancer diagnosis or treatment, usually called a Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver , if your diagnosis fits this definition. Insurance policies and waivers vary by insurer, but benefits often include:

• Reimbursing pre-paid, nonrefundable expenses if you have to cancel your trip because your illness worsens or requires additional treatment.
• Reimbursing pre-paid, nonrefundable expenses if you have to end your trip early due to an illness worsening.
• Reimburse you for emergency medical care if you suffer a cancer-related medical emergency while traveling.

There are often limits to this coverage. Travel insurance is designed to cover unforeseen costs, so, for example, if you wait until you suffer an injury while oversees, you likely won’t find medical coverage. These policies tend to cover specific situations, events, or losses, so it’s important to read your policy carefully. Some travel insurance policies don’t cover individuals with pre-existing conditions (which could include a cancer diagnosis), or people over 70 years old.

How does travel insurance work?

Most of the time, travel insurance reimburses you for covered costs after you file a claim and that claim is approved. Claim processes vary by company, but you’ll have to provide proof of your covered loss or expense. While waiting for reimbursement, you will likely have to pay to accommodate your unexpected travel delay or medical expense. In some situations, (unfortunately not Kathy’s), travel insurance companies pay emergency medical expenses up front.

Tips for Buying and Using Travel Insurance

• Buy early: The earlier to buy travel insurance, the longer you’re covered if your trip is delayed, cancelled, or disrupted before you leave. Usually, the best time to buy travel insurance is right after you’ve made your travel arrangements. Some policies require you to purchase insurance within a certain window (often 14 days) after making travel plans to qualify for special benefits, like coverage for pre-existing conditions.
• Read your plan carefully: As Kathy’s story shows, it pays to know exactly what situations your plan covers. Do you need pre-approval for medical services or hotel accommodations? Receipts of purchases for claims to be filed once you get home? Read your plan carefully before you start your trip to avoid unexpected bills.
• Call your insurance company when you need help: Many insurance companies have 24-hour hotlines for policy holders, so give your insurance company a call if you’re faced with an unexpected expense and are unsure about coverage. Representatives can explain your benefits and help you deal with your unexpected costs.

Make sure to research your plan carefully before purchasing— without her Blue Cross coverage, Kathy’s RV trip would have cost her $71,000.

For more information about health insurance coverage, visit https://TriageCancer.org/HealthInsurance .

Similar Posts You May Like To Read:

• Dangers of Fixed Indemnity Plans: But Not in the Eyes of the Court
• Are High Risk Pools & Major Risk Insurances Plans Extinct?
• Do you have a Pre-Existing Condition? Do you know if you are Protected?
• Is Short-Term Insurance the Solution?
• Do You Have a Right to a Second Medical Opinion?
• Ability To Buy A Medigap Policy Depends On Where You Live
• Buyer Beware: New Rule for Short-Term Health Insurance Plans
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Getting travel insurance

Travel insurance is very important for people who have or have had cancer. 

You have travel insurance to help you get compensation for anything that might go wrong with your travel. This usually means anything from having to cancel your trip, to losing your suitcases. But the most important part is the medical expenses cover.

Suppose you’re going to a country with high medical costs and you need to be flown back in an emergency. Without medical expense cover, the cost to you could be huge.

On this page we look at:

Why is it so hard to get travel insurance?

Travel insurance for people with cancer.

Travel insurance if you have had cancer

Destinations and costs

Finding insurance

Healthcare abroad

Tips on what you need to know

Getting travel insurance when you have or have had cancer can be difficult.  

Insurance companies only make money from people who don't claim. Because you’ve been ill, they think you’re more likely to claim. For example, you might need to cancel your trip or have medical treatment abroad. This makes you a bigger risk to the company, and they can refuse to give you travel insurance.

But finding travel insurance is getting easier. Many insurance companies now look at individual cases rather than refusing everyone who has had cancer.

Some travel insurance companies will give you medical cover if you have a doctor’s letter saying you’re fit enough to travel. But other companies might only insure you for treatment that isn't to do with your cancer. 

So although you'll have travel insurance, it won't cover any treatment you might need because of your cancer. You'll have to pay for that yourself. 

Travel insurance that covers cancer related treatment

For emergency medical problems relating to your cancer while you’re travelling, you'll need an insurance policy that covers you for this. So you must tell the insurance company about the cancer when you apply for cover.

Whether you can get insurance, and how much it costs, will depend on your cancer type.

When you apply for travel insurance, be prepared for questions about:

• your cancer type
• how big your cancer is or was at diagnosis and whether it had spread (stage)
• the grade of your cancer
• the treatment you are having or have had
• your outlook (prognosis)
• follow up care you are having

It’s best if you have these details before you apply. Ask your doctor or specialist nurse if you're unsure about anything. They can answer your questions.

Some insurance companies specialise in policies for people with pre existing medical conditions. This includes cancer. It's worth shopping around. Try insurance brokers as well as travel insurance companies. 

Travel insurance for people who have had cancer

Many travel insurance companies will give you medical cover if you have a doctor’s certificate saying you no longer have cancer and are fit enough to travel. 

Some companies won’t offer you insurance until you’ve been cancer free for some months or even years. Be prepared for the cost to be higher if you finished treatment recently. Prices generally go down the longer you’re cancer free. 

You need to be able to claim for emergency medical care abroad. This includes treatment related to your previous cancer.

To be covered for this, you need a policy that says the insurance company will pay for emergency medical problems that are related to your cancer. Again, you must tell the insurance company your full medical history when you apply for cover. They must pay according to the policy if they agreed to cover you.

The policies of travel insurance companies vary a lot. Some offer more suitable cover than others. Be sure to shop around and check your policy carefully.

Whether you have had cancer or not, travel insurance costs vary depending on where you want to go.

The UK has mutual agreements with some countries that are not in the European Economic Area (EEA). So they may provide medical care at a lower cost or in some cases free. The NHS website has a list of these countries. It also explains briefly what:

• you’ll need to pay
• documents you need
• Find out more at the NHS website

Medical costs in the USA are very high. So it’s hard to get cover if you’re planning a holiday there.

You may not be able to get insurance for the USA if you have incurable cancer, particularly cancer that has spread. So you may need to rethink your holiday plans.

Finding travel insurance

There are different ways to look for travel insurance including:

• contacting an insurance broker
• comparison websites
• contact the money advice service

Insurance brokers An insurance broker can try to arrange a policy for you. Or they can give you a list of insurance companies with special policies for people with cancer or other medical conditions. 

Brokers make a service charge. So it’s always best to make an informal approach to a few brokers before you make a decision. Make sure you feel happy that they know what's available for people with cancer.

The British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA) can suggest brokers. They can look for travel insurance policies for people with cancer.

• The British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA) website

Comparison websites Other ways to look for policies would be to use comparison websites such as:

• Money Super Market
• Confused.com
• Compare the Market

Money Advice Service

Another way is to contact the Money Advice Service. They can direct you to specialist travel insurance firms that cover serious medical conditions. 

• Go to Money Advice Service

Information the travel insurance companies and brokers might want to know

Being ready with answers to questions the companies might ask will help when you contact them. They will ask about your cancer and about your holiday. 

Questions about your cancer might include:

• when you were diagnosed
• what type of cancer it is
• how advanced it is and whether it is terminal
• what treatment you have had or are having, or if you are due to start treatment
• any medicines you are taking
• any appointments you have with your GP or specialist
• symptoms you have

Questions about your holiday:

• where you want to go
• how long for
• who will be travelling with you

Questions you might want to ask include:

• How much does the insurance cover you for?
• What is the excess? Does it vary depending on what you are claiming for, for example a medical claim or lost luggage
• Are you and whoever you are travelling with covered if you cancel?
• Is there anything it doesn’t cover?
• Depending on the situation some people might want to know if it would cover them if they died and their family wanted to get them home to bury them
• How much is the travel insurance policy?

Healthcare in Europe

The UK has now left the European Union (EU). This means there are changes to the healthcare agreements between the UK and EU countries.

To be able to receive state provided healthcare when visiting an EU country . You should hold either a: 

• UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
• UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)

These cards mean you can get necessary healthcare free or at a reduced cost in the EU country you are visiting. This is healthcare that cannot wait until you get home. It means you’ll have the same care as a citizen of the country you’re visiting. Remember, the cards might not cover everything you'd get in the NHS. This is because each healthcare system is different.

Ask where you are being referred to. Sometimes people are sent to a private practice or hospital. If this happens, you may not be covered for the costs of care unless you have travel medical insurance. If you have insurance, check the terms and conditions of the policy before agreeing to any treatment.

If you still hold a valid EHIC card you can use this until it expires. You will then need to apply for a UK GHIC. The EHIC will still be around but will only apply to some UK residents and is now replaced with the new UK EHIC card. To see if you should apply for a new UK EHIC card find out more on the NHS website.

• Visit the NHS website for information about the new UK EHIC card

The guide below gives you information on the different healthcare arrangements and systems in countries abroad.

• Guide to healthcare in countries abroad

The UK EHIC and UK GHIC doesn't cover the cost of any medical treatment that you planned in advance, only for unexpected needs. But if you need continued treatment for an ongoing illness while you're abroad, such as regular injections, the UK EHIC or UK GHIC covers this.

The UK EHIC or UK GHIC doesn’t always cover the full cost of treatment. For instance, it won’t cover the cost of getting you home in an emergency. So it’s important to have the right travel insurance even when travelling in the EU.

You still need a UK EHIC or UK GHIC because your insurance company might not cover the cost of treatment that the card covers. If you try to claim in full, they might say you should have had the UK EHIC or UK GHIC. 

It does not cover you if you are on a cruise. And it doesn’t cover the cost of flying you home.

Visiting Ireland

If you're a resident in the UK, you can get healthcare that cannot wait until you get home (necessary healthcare) from state healthcare services in Ireland during your visit. This includes medically necessary treatment for a pre-existing or chronic condition. Some treatments will need to be pre-arranged with the relevant healthcare provider in Ireland, for example chemotherapy. But you will still need travel insurance.

• Guidance on how to get healthcare when visiting Ireland

Europe beyond the EU:

Some countries within the European region do not accept the UK EHIC or UK GHIC, these are:

• the Channel Islands, including Guernsey, Alderney and Sark
• the Isle of Man
• the Vatican
• Guidance for Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.

The UK has an agreement with a number of non-EU countries so that people from the UK can receive urgent care. Usually, only immediate medical treatment is free of charge. This includes places such as:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Faroe Islands
• Isle of Man
• Bosnia and Herzegovina, Faroe Islands, Isle of Man and Jersey

Medical care on cruise ships is quite expensive. You should have travel insurance to cover any medical care costs. If you require additional medical care that cannot be provided on board the ship, you will be transferred to medical facilities on land. What you are covered for depends on the country the cruise ship drops you in. So, it is not a good idea to rely on the UK EHIC or UK GHIC. You need medical care cover for anywhere that the ship could stop in. This includes unscheduled stops.

• Apply for the new UK-issued EHIC or UK GHIC online

Tips on what you need to know before you look for insurance

• Many insurance companies have exclusions on their policies for people who have medical conditions such as cancer.
• If you had cancer in the past, you still need to tell the insurance company about it. You must declare all existing and pre existing conditions. Otherwise the insurance company might say you misinformed them and may not pay out.
• Regular high street travel insurance companies will not cover you if you have a terminal illness or if you aren't fit to travel.
• Get a letter from your doctor saying that you are fit to travel, even if you haven’t had any treatment for some time. It’s always best to get advice from your doctor before going abroad.
• You’ll need an updated doctor’s certificate every time you travel if you have an annual or multi trip policy.
• Start by making informal enquiries. Some companies might ask if you’ve been refused insurance before. If you’ve only made informal enquiries, this won’t affect any applications you make.
• As a condition of covering you, some insurance companies insist that you also get their travel insurance for everyone travelling with you.
• Always check a policy carefully. Make sure it covers everything you might need. Such as getting you home if you become unwell whilst abroad.
• Check the cost of insurance (premium) as well as the excess and whether there is a separate excess for everyone travelling.

Related links

Travelling abroad.

Travelling abroad when you have cancer might not affect where or how you travel. But sometimes you could have a few extra things to think about.

Coping practically

Get information on coping with practical matters such as money and travel, as well as treatment for overseas visitors.

Travel tips

Plan a safe and pleasant journey with these travel tips for people who have cancer, are having treatment, or are recovering from treatment.

Travelling with cancer main page

Travelling when you have cancer or treatment might need some extra planning. Find out how cancer can affect travelling in the UK and abroad and get plenty of tips to make it easier.

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Cancer Travel Insurance

POLICIES TAILORED TO YOU, FOUNDED FROM PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

Many people who have been diagnosed with cancer are living a (relatively) normal life and are able to carry on as they did before their diagnosis.

An essential part of leading a normal life involves going on holiday, and this is where problems can arise, because not only is it hard to find travel insurance with cancer cover but when you do, the premium quoted could be more than the cost of the holiday!

Insurancewith offers a range of policies specifically designed for those with a cancer diagnosis, by people who have experienced the condition themselves first-hand.

xRated 4.8/5 on Trustpilot

Based on over 5,900 customer reviews

How easy is it for people with cancer to get travel insurance?

Often, people with a cancer diagnosis can find it harder to get cover for their holiday. If you can find a policy to cover you, it can usually cost more as often insurers see you as a higher risk for making a claim than someone with no medical conditions.

At Insurancewith, we work differently to the rest of the market. Our founder, Fiona , found that often travel insurance policies for people with cancer either weren’t available or were prohibitively expensive – often costing more than the price of the holiday itself!

Although we ask a few more questions than other providers, getting the right kind of cover on your travels is important. Here at Insurancewith, we do more than just insurance. We’ll make sure you’re cared for from sale to claim.

Policy Benefits

There are a series of benefits which come with taking out one of our policies. Some of the most helpful for you include:

• £10 million cover for medical emergencies
• Cover for repatriation
• Emergency helpline 24 hours a day, every day of the year
• Bespoke medical screening
• Personalised medical screening for more complicated or serious cases
• Discounts for couples, families and single parent families
• Winter sports policies available
• Cruise policies available
• Worldwide cover available provided you are not travelling against the advice of the Foreign & Commonwealth Office
• 300+ sports and activities can be covered, many at standard terms
• 14 day cooling off period

Types of Cancer Covered

We will consider covering all different types of cancer. Shown below are the most common types that we are asked to cover. However, if your particular cancer isn’t shown, don’t worry, because you can still get a quote by entering your type of cancer when prompted during the quote process and proceed from there.

Alternatively, you can call our Customer Service Centre on 0333 005 1066  and they will be happy to process the quote for you.

Insurancewith has bespoke cancer travel insurance cover for the more common cancers such as:

• Breast Cancer
• Bowel Cancer
• Lung Cancer
• Prostate Cancer

The Insurancewith travel insurance for cancer patients policy was created by people with first-hand experience of cancer. They really do understand your problems when it comes to buying travel insurance that asks more questions specific to you and your treatment. This ensures that you have the most suitable policy for your needs at the most appropriate price. We also have cancer travel insurance policies for rarer cancers such as:

• Bladder Cancer
• Kidney Cancer
• Non Hodgkin Lymphoma
• Ovarian Cancer
• Pancreatic Cancer
• Skin Cancer
• Stomach Cancer
• Testicular Cancer
• Uterine Cancer

Why Choose Insurancewith?

Our common-sense approach to medical travel cover has been recognised by industry peers and customers alike . We want to make it easier for more people to travel. Many of those we’ve helped talk about how they’d almost given up with the idea of getting away. We understand that getting away and knowing you’re protected should something unexpected occur can have a real impact.

Speak to a member of our team

Having trouble finding what you are looking for?

Please click on the button below to speak to a member of our experienced and empathetic Customer Service team via Live Chat.

¹ Based upon Trustpilot data from December, 2022

*Please note, Insurancewith’s online prices automatically include a 15% discount against our Customer Service Centre prices

$ Insurancewith has been rated 4.8 out of 5 (Excellent) based on over 7000 customer reviews on Trustpilot. Based on Trustpilot data 2023 

2 Based on quote data from 2023. Correct as of 12/09/2023

ɸInsurancewith Awards Won: Customer Champion of the Year at the Insurance Times Awards, 2017, Finalist Insurance Choice Awards, 2023. Plus, our founder Fiona Macrae was awarded the Consumer Marketing and Awareness Award at the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) Public Trust Awards, 2018

Traveling With Cancer: Advice, Tips, and Tricks

How to know when you shouldn’t be traveling with cancer, how to prepare to travel safely, and what you can do to reduce the stress and cost of traveling

A trip or vacation with family and friends can be a great way to take your mind off the events surrounding your cancer diagnosis and treatment. But when faced with the need to travel, whether it's for a vacation, business purposes, or to get treatments, it’s natural for people with cancer to wonder if it would be unsafe.

“It’s generally safe to travel with cancer, even on longer [more than five-hour] flights,” says Jeffrey Velotta, MD , a cardiothoracic surgeon with extensive expertise in pleural mesothelioma and lung cancer.

Still, it’s important to know when you shouldn’t travel with your condition, what and how to prepare to travel safely, and what you can do to reduce the stress and cost of traveling.

When Not to Travel With Cancer

While it is generally considered safe for people with cancer to travel, there are times when you should cancel your plans and stay home. “The caveats are that if you had a major cancer surgery within four to six weeks, or if you are actively undergoing chemotherapy and have had an infusion within one week, you shouldn’t travel, because of possible feelings of dehydration, nausea or vomiting, or severe fatigue,” says Dr. Velotta, adding that being on longer flights can worsen these symptoms.

Notably, there are no established regulations or criteria to deem a person with cancer unfit to travel. But, according to a review article published in the Journal of Global Oncology , people who are receiving intensive radiation or systemic cancer treatments, those whose cancer requires close monitoring by healthcare professionals, or those with stage 4 cancer should not travel on commercial airlines.

Possible Dangers of Traveling With Cancer

It’s important to be aware of the potential risks when traveling with cancer.

• The stress from being on a flight or on the road for a long time may worsen your symptoms or have negative impacts on your overall health.
• It may be difficult to get medical care or emergency medical intervention while in transit.
• You may experience reduced oxygen delivery on a flight if you are an older adult, have low levels of healthy red blood cells (anemia), or have an existing cardiopulmonary disease such as bronchitis (inflammation of the lung airways) or polycythemia (a blood disorder where you have too many red blood cells).
• Your risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), which is a blood clot that forms in the veins, may be higher if you have cancer and are traveling for over eight hours.
• People with cancer who travel by air may experience pleural effusion (fluid in the lungs) or pain.
• If you had a brain tumor and underwent a recent neurosurgery, you may be at risk of increased pressure within your skull when you travel at a high altitude.

And there is another potential danger of traveling with cancer: “You are potentially at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19 and other upper respiratory infections or viruses,” Velotta points out, suggesting that you should avoid traveling or delay your flight if you feel sick.

Should You Inform Anyone About Your Condition?

Before traveling, there are some key people you should consider speaking with or informing about your condition.

“If you're dealing with cancer and planning a trip, talk to your healthcare team. Your provider can confirm whether it's safe to travel and offer tips on managing things while you're away,” says Sean Marchese, RN , a nurse at the Mesothelioma Center, an advocacy organization in Orlando, Florida, with a background in oncology clinical trials and over 20 years of patient-care experience.

Your doctor can arrange for the medications you will need to take with you and determine whether you will need a medical alert letter or special documentation for your medication. For instance, this might be necessary if you are taking a synthetic opioid like methadone for cancer-related pain.

You can get advice from your other healthcare team members, like the nurse and patient navigator, about the following:

• Where and how to buy travel health insurance
• How to cope with symptoms and medication side effects when you are away from home
• Other essentials you will need to take with you on the trip

While it's not obligatory, some people may want to inform their flight attendants and seatmates about their medical condition. “It's wise to tell the flight crew about your health, especially if you anticipate needing help. Communicating your needs keeps everyone in the loop in case of an emergency,” Marchese says.

Prepare for Your Trip

Here are some tips to help you plan and prepare for a safe trip.

• Notify your healthcare team ahead of time about your travel plans. If you are undergoing treatment, they can arrange a break or change the treatment dates.
• Pack your prescribed medications and take them as directed before and during the flight.
• Consider speaking with the travel company you will be using so they can provide you with any needed support, such as a wheelchair.
• Arrange to get travel insurance, in case you need it.
• If you had surgery, speak to your doctor about any extra supplies you need to carry with you.
• Carry your face mask, alcohol-based hand-sanitizing gel, and sunscreen with you.
• Wear compression socks to improve blood flow and reduce leg swelling during the trip.
• If your cancer is causing you bowel or bladder problems, consider getting a “Just Can’t Wait” toilet card or booking an aisle seat close to the lavatory. You can also download a toilet app on your phone to help you find public restrooms when you arrive at your destination.
• Pack healthy snacks like sliced apples and peanut butter, whole-grain crackers, and nuts. Make healthy food choices even when you get to your destination.
• Plan to stay active. If you are on a long road trip, use rest-stop breaks to stretch and take a short walk. For plane trips, you can explore the airport while waiting for a connecting flight or try simple inflight exercises (for example: pull each knee up toward the chest and hold it there with your hands for 15 seconds, and repeat).
• Drink enough water, and avoid consuming excess alcohol or caffeinated drinks during your trip.

For more travel health information, speak to a travel health specialist or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for information on diseases that are of concern at your destination and vaccines that may be recommended for you.

Medical Travel Agencies and Travel Health Specialists

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become particularly risky for people with medical conditions like cancer to travel through public transport systems. This is because cancer and its treatments can suppress the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.

For people with cancer who are in critical condition or are receiving treatment, it may be helpful to seek the services of healthcare travel agencies that can connect them with affiliated hospitals at their destinations and provide medical air services or medically equipped buses. Such planes or buses may be outfitted with intensive care facilities, medications, and even trained medical personnel. You can visit the International Medical Travel Journal’s directory and search for medical travel agencies around your location that offer such services.

Another option is to consult a travel health specialist before you go. In collaboration with your oncology team, a travel health specialist can advise you on how best to protect yourself from illnesses transmitted by insects or parasites such as ticks and mosquitoes, depending on the region you're traveling to and the time of year. They can also recommend vaccines you should get. “Vaccines depend on where you're going. Many places require flu and pneumonia shots, but it varies,” says Marchese.

"Generally speaking, lung cancer or cancer spread to the lungs will have a higher risk of worse upper respiratory symptoms or pneumonias," adds Velotta. So, if you have this type of cancer, you need to ensure your boosters for COVID-19 are up-to-date.

Traveling with cancer can come with additional costs that some families may not be able to afford. Speak with your medical team, a patient navigator, or a social worker to learn about resources that can help with the cost of transportation, food, lodging, and other needs.

If you are traveling to get medical treatment, check out the American Cancer Society’s list of programs and resources for help with cancer-related expenses.

Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking

Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy . We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.

• Heng S et al. Traveling With Cancer: A Guide for Oncologists in the Modern World. Journal of Global Oncology . July 10, 2019.
• Aerospace Medical Association Medical Guidelines Task Force. Medical Guidelines for Airline Travel, 2nd Edition. Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine . May 2003.
• Brändström H et al. Risk for Intracranial Pressure Increase Related to Enclosed Air in Post-Craniotomy Patients During Air Ambulance Transport: A Retrospective Cohort Study With Simulation. Scandinavian Journal of Trauma Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine . May 12, 2017.
• Ahmedzai S et al. Managing Passengers With Stable Respiratory Disease Planning Air Travel: British Thoracic Society Recommendations. Thorax . September 2011.
• Why People With Cancer Are More Likely to Get Infections. American Cancer Society . March 13, 2020.
• Blood Clots and Travel: What You Need to Know. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . June 28, 2023
• Opioids for Cancer Pain. American Cancer Society . May 23, 2023.
• Travelers With Chronic Illnesses. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . August 16, 2022.
• Destinations. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .
• Eat Right and Stay Active While Traveling. American Cancer Society . November 21, 2019.
• Programs and Resources to Help With Cancer-Related Expenses. American Cancer Society . September 30, 2023.

The 5 best cruise travel insurance plans

While smooth sailing will always be the aim, cruising today is often about expecting the unexpected. You can prepare yourself by taking out an insurance policy that can compensate you when your vacation at sea does not go as planned.

Need to cancel your trip last minute due to an accident or illness? Did your bags get delayed or lost? Do you need to exit the sailing early to take care of an emergency back home? Was there a mechanical issue with the ship that required a change of itinerary, causing you to miss your flight home?

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

All of these contingencies and more can be covered; it's just a matter of finding the best insurance policy for you. Here's how to evaluate which plan is the right choice for you, as well as five of the best cruise travel insurance plans available.

The best cruise travel insurance plan will always be a 3rd-party option

No plan will meet the needs of all cruise travelers, so there is little benefit to booking the one insurance option recommended by your cruise line during the booking process other than convenience.

You'll often find more affordable rates, comprehensive coverage and favorable terms utilizing third-party insurance companies. You'll have a wide choice of plans, so you can pick the one that works the best for your situation.

If you're wondering where the best place is to purchase third-party insurance, "No one comparison site is getting preferential deals," says Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com . "Insurance carriers' rates are the same anywhere." However, these insurance comparison sites can help you directly compare the pricing and coverage of multiple policies by a range of preferred providers.

Look for the following coverage options and compare coverage amounts to determine which third-party plan is the best cruise insurance option for your upcoming trip.

Related: Cruise travel insurance: What it covers and why you need it

Trip cancellation

You'll want to be reimbursed if an unexpected event forces you to cancel your cruise. Be sure to read the fine print of your policy, detailing which specific reasons for canceling your trip are covered and not covered.

Trip interruption and travel delays

You'll also want to be covered if issues occur after travel begins. It's important to find "a plan that offers trip interruption if something does happen during your trip, along with a plan that offers emergency medical evacuation, coverage for travel delays and missed connection benefits," adds insurance expert Meghan Walch from InsureMyTrip .

Related: What happens if you miss your cruise

COVID-19 contingencies

Walch advises all travelers booking a cruise to consider a plan that includes cancellation coverage for COVID-19. Note that you'll need more than a home test to file a claim. According to Walch, "You'll need a doctor saying that you have been diagnosed with COVID and specify that you are unable to travel."

In addition, look for coverage if you get sick and need to isolate away from home. "Some plans offer additional trip delay coverage, put in place as a result of needing additional or higher limits for instances that might include if the policyholder gets quarantined in a location," Sandberg adds.

Cancel for any reason

A cancel-for-any-reason optional upgrade offers the most flexibility. You can get a refund of up to 75% if you cancel your voyage for reasons not usually covered by travel insurance. However, it adds about 40% to your premium and can only be purchased within a limited window of time after your cruise purchase.

Related: What happens if my cruise line changes my itinerary or ship?

Lost or delayed baggage

Baggage loss insurance covers your luggage if it is lost, damaged or stolen during your trip. In the case that you make it on the cruise and your bags do not, the insurance agency can assist with locating and redirecting the bags to your next port, reimbursing you for items you may need to purchase to get you through your travels while you are without your belongings and covering your losses in the case that the bag is actually gone for good.

Note that certain high-cost items such as electronics, luxury watches and fine jewelry are not always covered by baggage loss insurance. Consider purchasing additional coverage for such items or — better yet — keep those items with you at all times.

Health coverage

Medical coverage is another consideration. "Most domestic health coverage [including Medicare] does not cover travel abroad, so it is important to look at a travel insurance policy that offers medical coverage during your trip, just in case anything happens," says Walch. "If you fall ill or are injured during the trip, it can be pretty expensive – even when going to the ship's onboard medical facility."

Related: How to avoid getting sick on a cruise

Hurricane coverage

Extreme weather and hurricanes are typically not covered if the cruise commences as scheduled, though you might be eligible for trip interruption coverage if weather cancels the cruise or cuts the itinerary short. There are also insurance plans that offer trip reimbursement if a destination on your itinerary is under a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration-issued hurricane alert or warning.

How much will cruise travel insurance cost?

Insurance pricing is dependent on the trip cost and the age of the insured travelers. Sandberg estimates that "travelers in their 30s or 40s can ballpark insurance coverage somewhere around 5% to 7% of the trip costs, with rates that can get lower depending on the extent of coverage."

Insurance is a tiered product that gets more expensive as you age. "As you get older, that range can expand to 10% of trip costs," notes Sandberg. "Adding bells and whistles, like 'cancel for any reason' [coverage], rates can rise to 11% to 12% of the cost of your trip."

Related: How cruising newbies waste money on their 1st cruise

5 best cruise travel insurance plans

Following extensive research scouring the fine print, we've selected five of the best cruise insurance plans that will appeal to a variety of seagoing travelers.

All five plans provide coverage for COVID-19-related trip cancellation and interruption.

For the leisure cruiser: TravelSafe Classic Plan

TravelSafe's Classic Plan is the best value all-around for the average cruiser, with superior coverage limits at a fair rate.

This plan's coverage includes an impressive $1 million per person for medical evacuation and a high $2,500 coverage limit for bag loss. You have extra time – 21 days – from your initial deposit to add a cancel-for-any-reason upgrade to your plan. The accident and sickness medical coverage is primary, with coverage up to $100,000.

The policy's $750-maximum trip delay coverage begins after a six-hour delay and includes kennel fees for up to $100 per day, along with coverage for additional meal and accommodation expenses.

For the budget conscious: AXA's Silver Plan

AXA's Silver Plan is the company's entry-level offering, with more value added than most budget insurance options — most notably the company's concierge service. Coverage under this plan includes robust trip cancellation and interruption coverage, both at 100% of the costs, along with $100,000 for emergency medical evacuation.

The plan also offers identity theft assistance in case your wallet or passport gets stolen while traveling, assisting with filing and obtaining police and credit reports, taking inventory of lost or stolen items, and even wiring emergency funds to you when you're really in a bind.

You won't have the option to purchase a cancel-for-any-reason add-on or opt in for a collision damage waiver on this lowest-tier plan.

For the luxury cruise traveler: John Hancock's Gold Plan

John Hancock's Gold Plan offers robust medical evacuation and repatriation coverage up to $1 million per person, ideal for those luxury cruises that rove to the farthest reaches of the globe. The plan has excellent baggage loss coverage at up to $2,500 per person, along with a low three-hour minimum travel delay ($1,000 per person, $200 daily limit) benefit.

Preexisting medical conditions are covered by this policy, though you must purchase your policy within 14 days of your trip deposit.

For increased medical coverage: Seven Corners' RoundTrip Choice Plan

Seven Corners' RoundTrip Choice Plan offers primary medical coverage for emergency accident and sickness medical expenses up to $500,000, while many other plans only offer secondary coverage. The plan's medical evacuation coverage is high at $1 million, and preexisting conditions are covered with a few conditions that apply, namely that you purchase the policy within 20 days of your initial trip payment.

The policy also offers detailed, robust COVID-19 coverage, including reimbursement for medical care if you contract COVID-19 while traveling. Its coverage also includes meals, local transportation and lodging if you're delayed six or more consecutive hours due to quarantining with COVID-19.

Coverage options on the plan may vary slightly depending on which U.S. state you claim as your residence.

For the adventurous cruiser: World Nomads' Explorer Plan

World Nomads is one of the few insurance companies that will cover more than 200 adventure activities on your travels, including scuba diving, skydiving and bungee jumping. The coverage for the long list of activities includes emergency medical expenses while outside the U.S., medical evacuation and repatriation, along with trip interruption.

World Nomads' Explorer Plan also offers $25,000 in coverage for nonmedical emergency evacuation for covered events, such as a natural disaster or political or security situations.

Travelers 70 and older are required to add a "Silver Nomads" policy, offered through TripAssure.

Bottom line

Cruising isn't always a blissful week spent relaxing on the pool deck or snorkeling among multicolored reefs. Mishaps occur, whether it's losing luggage, missing a flight or falling ill.

The best cruise insurance policies are the ones that won't let you sail without a safety net, charging a fraction of your trip expenses in exchange for the peace of mind that there's a plan in place should something go wrong. With a range of pricing and coverage options available, you can feel confident that you can find a policy to suit your travel needs.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Vacations for Adult Cancer Patients: Update

Posted by Peigi Chace on Mar 4, 2022 in Blog , Breast cancer , Colorectal cancer , Hodgkin's lymphoma , Leukemia , Lung cancer , Lymphoma , Melanoma , Multiple Myeloma , Non-Hodgkin lymphoma , Prostate cancer | 4 comments

Two of our most popular previous blog posts described free vacation opportunities for adults with cancer. Given the uncertainty of the past two years, we thought it was time for an update.  Here is a short list of organizations that have made it their mission to provide needed respite to those affected by cancer. Each has been verified to have offerings in 2022. 

Camp Koru is an outdoor adventure camp, held in Maui or Oregon , that helps young adult cancer survivors heal and overcome their fears through outdoor experiences. The week is spent learning a new sport, accessing deep vulnerability, exploring the outdoors, and more, all while connecting with fellow survivors.

Camp Mak-A-Dream , located in Missoula, Montana, provides free four and five-day retreats for all ages with cancer, as well as their siblings, families, and caregivers.  The adult camps are for women only: women with any cancer and women with ovarian cancer. Activities include yoga, zip line and art therapy with field trips to Missoula Farmers Market and the historic area. 

The camp advises that they are “working on plans for what the 2022 season might look like,” so they are providing a 2022 draft schedule. Please check back with their website frequently for updates.

Casting For Recovery is a fly fishing centered program providing retreats for women with breast cancer. Retreats are held all over the US. Medivizor featured Casting For Recovery in a blogpost called “Breast Cancer Patients Get Hooked .“

Applications for most of the 2022 season’s retreats are now posted. As additional retreat details are confirmed, they will be added, so those interested should check back periodically.

Dream Foundation provides wish fulfillment for adults with cancer who are terminally ill with a life expectancy of a year or less.  “Dreams” are not necessarily travel, but requests must meet certain conditions.

Epic Experience provides free week-long outdoor adventures for adults of all ages diagnosed with cancer.  The diagnosis could have been recent or one from 10 or 15 years ago. Located in a 250-acre dude ranch in Arvada, Colorado, campers are taught how to kayak in the summer and snowshoe or ski in the winter.

The Family Cancer Retreat occurs twice a year in New Mexico. These three day retreats are free for cancer patients and their families in New Mexico. The focus is on education with past sessions titled, “You’ve Completed Treatment – Now What?” and “Meditation, Yoga and Creativity Workshops.” Activities are provided for children and teens as the patient and caregivers attend sessions.

This spring, they anticipate an in-person retreat, April 22-24. 

First Descents provides free, week-long outdoor adventures for young adults (ages 18-45) impacted by cancer and multiple sclerosis, caregivers, and healthcare workers. The adventure activities — kayaking, surfing and rock climbing — require no experience.  Adventures are held all over the US and are free to participants.  They offer travel scholarships. 

For Pete’s Sake Travel Respite Program provides adult cancer patients, their caregivers and their children with an opportunity to spend time together in an environment away from their home.  Nominated families are invited to spend five nights/six days at Woodloch Resort in Hawley, PA.  Accommodations are provided for the patient, primary caregiver, and children of the patient. FPS covers expenses related to the respite, including transportation costs. 

Through June 2022, monthly respites are held at the Hawley, PA location. In the future, locations from partners, RV on the Go, and other resorts in PA, VA, NJ, CT and ME will be added.

Harmony Hill provides three-day Cancer Healing and Surviving retreats at their facility in Union, Washington. The curriculum includes yoga, meditation, art, guided imagery and support. They provide a variety of retreats like family retreats, couples retreats, and metastatic cancer retreats. Lodging, meals, and curriculum are free.

Inheritance of Hope serves young families facing a parent’s terminal illness by providing retreats and “Hope at Home” weekends as well as monthly support groups. This service is limited to families with children 18 or under where one of the parents has a terminal illness. 

The Jack & Jill Late Stage Cancer Foundation offers all-expenses-paid prescribed trips for families that have been referred by major oncology centers, ”giving children who will lose their Mom or Dad to cancer a time to create memories as a family.” 

Kick Cancer Overboard : This organization provides free cruises to New Jersey residents who are affected by cancer. Kick Cancer Overboard sells spaces on cruises to healthy people and raises money to fund free cruises for cancer patients and the people accompanying the patient.  

The application process is limited to New Jersey residents. 

Little Pink Houses of Hope provides free week-long beach retreats for people with breast cancer.  Participants must be ambulatory and have undergone treatment for breast cancer within the past 12 months. The beach retreats are held in North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Delaware, Florida, and California.

Reeling and Healing Midwest is a fly-fishing weekend retreat for women of any age with cancer, whether in or out of treatment.  The lodging, lessons and meals are included.  However, transportation costs as well as a $30 registration fee and 1 day fishing license are not covered.  Spouses are not allowed to attend but female family members may also come along as participants.

Reel Recovery is a national non-profit founded in 2003 that provides free fly fishing retreats for men who are living with cancer. Retreats are held all over the US, including Colorado, Utah, Missouri, and New Jersey.  There is also a retreat in New Zealand.  

The 2022 retreat schedule is posted here.

River Discovery , located in Idaho, offers adults and teens with cancer an opportunity to engage in experiences in the great outdoors.  River Discovery adventures include 1-day to 6-day river adventures, paddle board sessions, and survivor and co-survivor retreats. River Discovery contracts with a licensed outfitter to provide professional guides and high-quality rafting and camping equipment.A medical release from a physician is required for all activities.

Participants are picked by lottery. Entry forms for 2022 programs are open through March 31st.  Additional financial aid for travel may be available on a need-based request.

Stella’s Wish Foundation is dedicated to granting wishes for adults with Stage 4 cancer.   The wishes that have been granted range from redecorating a bedroom to a cruise with family to a trip to meet a celebrity or see family .

Waves of Grace provides beach vacations for cancer patients and their families. 

Waves of Grace covers the cost of everything from travel to medical equipment rental to meals and entertainment. Their desire is for the trip to be fully expense-free. Families that are residents of the southeastern United States can be nominated to receive a vacation. 

Waves of Grace hopes to expand their availability and is looking for beach home owners interested in offering their property for use. 

Wind River Retreat is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Tryon, North Carolina.  Men and women who are residents of North or South Carolina living with any cancer who are in treatment or completed treatment can attend. The retreat gives priority to people with advanced cancers.  Tai Chi, meditation and hiking are some of the retreat’s offerings. 

While there are no in-person retreats over the winter or spring due to Covid-19, Wind River encourages interested North and South Carolina residents to sign up for the newsletter because programs are added regularly.

If you are aware of any other free respite opportunities for adults who have been affected by cancer, please let us know by commenting below.

I have just been diagnosed with ovarian cancer – stage 3b. I live in Ann Arbor MI with my husband and daughter. We would like to learn more. I can be contacted by email or phone 734-968-0357

Hi Maria — for more information about any of these programs, please contact the organization(s) offering the vacation.

I’m interested in hearing more about the generous offers. I’m 38, stage 4 metastatic breast cancer that is now in my lungs, liver, ovaries (now removed via total hysterectomy) and cancer through my bones.

Hi my name is Stephanie Kennedy I have 4th stage cancer rare blood soft tissue,spreaded all through my body

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Can I Get Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions?

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Table of Contents

What is considered a pre-existing condition?

How to qualify for a pre-existing medical conditions waiver, where to find coverage for pre-existing conditions, travel insurance for pre-existing conditions, recapped.

Although trip delay and baggage loss insurance are good to have, purchasing a medical insurance policy before hitting the road can be the difference between an expensive vacation and a really expensive vacation. Those with pre-existing conditions may be wondering if they can still get travel insurance. Luckily, the answer is yes.

Here’s where to look for and how to get travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions.

» Learn more: What to know before buying travel insurance

A pre-existing condition is an illness, injury or medical concern that has included exams, treatments or a change in prescribed medication within 60 to 180 days of purchasing a travel insurance policy. The condition doesn’t have to be diagnosed formally to be considered a pre-existing condition.

For example, say you go on a bike tour of Amsterdam and suffer a mild heart attack. If a doctor had diagnosed hypertension (high blood pressure) a few weeks before your trip, this is considered a pre-existing condition.

So, what does a pre-existing medical condition mean for travel insurance? The good news is that having a pre-existing condition doesn’t preclude you from traveling or being eligible for medical coverage. Many comprehensive plans cover pre-existing conditions and can help you recoup your money if you require medical treatment during your trip or have to cancel a trip altogether because of a medical issue.

To avoid being on the hook for medical bills abroad or losing a deposit before you even pack your bags, look for a policy that includes a pre-existing condition waiver. Read the fine print on the insurance provider’s website; there shouldn’t be an age limit on most plans, and the premium shouldn’t cost more than it would for people without pre-existing medical conditions.

As long as you’re medically fit to travel, you can qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver if you meet the following criteria and apply within the eligible timeframe:

A pre-existing condition must be stable.

You must buy coverage at the time of your first trip deposit or shortly thereafter (time frame varies by company).

Amount of coverage must be equal to all pre-paid, non-refundable costs.

For example, if you put down a 50% deposit on a safari in South Africa, you must buy travel insurance within the time specified by the insurance provider to be eligible for a pre-existing medical conditions waiver. If you wait too long to purchase coverage, you'll have missed the coverage purchasing window and the waiver won’t be applicable to your trip.

We recommend purchasing a travel insurance policy as soon as you make the first deposit on a trip.

If you don’t qualify for a waiver, then a travel insurance company has a right to look back at the traveler’s medical records for the last 60 to 180 days (varies by plan), which is called a look-back period. This is done to determine whether you’re filing a claim for an incident related to a pre-existing condition, which then determines whether it’s going to be covered or not.

The pre-existing medical conditions waiver may also provide coverage in the case of a non-traveling family member having a medical problem mid-trip. This varies by plan.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies

With so many providers to choose from, it’s hard to make the right choice. So, which travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions is best?

You can turn to travel insurance companies such as Allianz , Travel Guard by AIG or RoamRight to locate the right plan for your trip.

Instead of getting quotes from every travel insurance company under the sun, we recommend InsureMyTrip, which is a free comparison site that allows you to get quotes from multiple providers at once.

To start a quote, you must:

Select your travel destination.

Provide travel dates.

Disclose your citizenship and the state where you live.

Select the number of travelers and their ages.

The website will ask you additional questions, such as:

Whether you’re taking a flight, going on a cruise or renting a vacation home.

The total cost of nonrefundable expenses, such as flight costs, hotel bookings and tours.

The date you made the first payment toward the trip and viewed your coverage options.

You can sort and filter your results in multiple ways. Compare the plans offered and make a selection based on price, insurance provider reviews or the included coverage.

Keep in mind that it’s not possible to find annual travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions. Comprehensive plans that include coverage for pre-existing conditions can only be purchased for every trip separately.

Yes, it is possible to find travel insurance coverage suitable for trip takers with qualifying pre-existing conditions.

The best travel insurance options for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions include Travel Guard by AIG and Allianz .

Unless you purchase a plan with explicit coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, you can generally expect that costs related to these conditions pre- or mid-trip are excluded from a travel insurance policy. For plans with the option to cover pre-existing medical conditions, qualified travelers can select a Waiver of Pre-Existing Medical Conditions.

Example eligible conditions include illnesses, injuries or medical concerns that have included exams, treatments or a change in prescribed medication within 2-6 months of purchasing a travel insurance policy (depending on the provider).

The best travel insurance options for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions include

Travel Guard by AIG

Optional travel insurance certainly can protect you from the unexpected. To obtain coverage for a pre-existing condition, make sure to follow all the rules of the policy you’re about to purchase. Buy a policy within the specified time frame and declare all nonrefundable expenses accurately.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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Cancer Travel Insurance

We can provider cover for all types of cancer, including:

• Breast cancer
• Skin cancer
• Prostate cancer

Going on holiday should be a time of excitement, but if you’re diagnosed with cancer, it can also bring a unique set of challenges. Having the right Travel Insurance can make all the difference in reducing your worries before your trip.

Specialist Travel Insurance for people with cancer

Travel Insurance for Cancer is a specific type of Travel Insurance for people who are living with cancer. Whether you’re currently a cancer patient or are in remission, we cover all stages and most types of cancer.

• 50% of people who are diagnosed with cancer go on to live 10 years or longer . This means if you currently have, or have previously lived with cancer, you may have many more opportunities for adventures.
• Data from cancer charity Macmillan has shown that Travel Insurance is one of the biggest concerns for people living with cancer. Our job is to help you know you’re protected if unexpected issues arise.

If you are planning to go abroad and you’re living with cancer, you might need a little extra support, which is where Travel Insurance for Cancer comes in. This will ensure you’re not left without vital medications if you lose your luggage, and that in the event of an unexpected hospital trip, you’re not left with a big medical bill.

What cover does AllClear’s Cancer Travel Insurance provide?

What’s covered?

• Medical expenses – We can cover any emergency medical treatment you need while travelling, including if it relates to pre-existing medical conditions you’ve declared.
• Medical aids – You can travel with confidence because we’ll protect all your important medical equipment and accessories from loss or damage.
• Medication – If you lose your medication, we will help you get a replacement as soon as possible.
• Repatriation – This covers the cost of emergency medical transport back to the UK.
• Lost luggage – We will pay out if your baggage is stolen or damaged. This way, you can replace your important items and enjoy your holiday.
• Cancellation and curtailment – Provides cover if you have to cancel your trip due to an unforeseen emergency or reasons beyond your control.
• Travel disruption – We will help you cover alternative transport or accommodation if your travel plans are disrupted, so you can continue your journey smoothly.

What’s not covered?

• Medical conditions you fail to declare – You need to declare all your medical conditions that fall within the medical warranty when you buy Travel Insurance so we can provide you the right cover. 
• High-risk activities – Some activities are not covered by our standard Travel Insurance. However, extra protection is available for an additional premium
• Missed departure within your control – While we know that things can go wrong, you won’t be covered if you miss your transport for an issue within your control.
• Deciding not to travel – We offer cancellation cover for specific reasons, such as illness, injury or bereavement. For full details please see your policy documents.

Find our different products below. We have three to choose from, Gold, Gold Plus and Platinum

If you’d like some help choosing which is best for you, give us a call .

SWIPE TO COMPARE POLICIES

* If you buy a policy which includes cancellation cover. / All these figures are per person and per trip.

What types and stages of cancer are covered by AllClear’s Travel Insurance?

Types of cancer covered.

We can offer Travel Insurance for all types of cancer, including:

• Lung cancer
• Bowel cancer
• Brain cancer
• Metastatic cancer

If you don’t see your cancer type listed above, that doesn’t mean we can’t cover it. The best way to get an answer is to give us a call.

Stages of cancer covered

We can cover you during every stage of your journey, from the initial diagnosis, through chemotherapy and radiation therapy to remission .

As you proceed through the medical screening process, we will gather all the information needed to offer a quote for your specific circumstances.

How to get Travel Insurance when you have cancer

As we’re a Specialist Medical Travel Insurance provider ,  the first step towards getting a quote is completing the medical screening process. 

This medical screening process is a set of questions we’ll ask you about your cancer, and any other pre-existing medical conditions you might have. Some questions we may ask include:

• What age were you when you were diagnosed? 
• Are you currently undergoing treatment or is any planned? 
• Has the cancer spread to other parts of the body?

The answers provided during the medical screening process can have a significant impact on your Cancer Travel Insurance. We’ll use the information you give and your unique medical history to provide the best cover for your trip. 

We won’t be able to cover you for costs relating to any medical issues that aren’t declared during the screening process. This is why it’s important to provide accurate information at this stage, so we can keep you protected and you don’t end up out of pocket for any unexpected costs.

AllClear’s Cancer Travel Insurance with other pre-existing medical conditions

At AllClear, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to travel.

If you’ve got a secondary or additional pre-existing condition in addition to cancer, we can help cover your travel plans. We can cover over 1,300 different conditions, and we’ve helped more than 3.5 million people get cover for their trips. 

If you have another condition, you must also declare it during the medical screening process. Remember that we define a pre-existing medical condition as any condition you have:

• Been to a hospital, clinic, or GP surgery to have medical treatment diagnosed or advised within the last two years. This also applies to remote consultations, either on the phone or through an app.
• Been placed on a waiting list which might mean you’ll have to miss your trip.
• Been told they have a terminal illness.

Examples of other pre-existing medical conditions we cover include:

• Heart Conditions – We cover all cardiovascular issues affecting heart function, including high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation . We’ll also provide cover if you have a pacemaker .
• Respiratory problems – This includes conditions that are linked with, or cause breathing difficulties, like asthma and COPD . 
• Chronic illnesses – Nearly 95% of adults 60 and older are living with at least one chronic condition. We cover issues like Crohn’s disease , diabetes , gallstones and other long-lasting concerns.
• Musculoskeletal conditions – Conditions that affect your bones, muscles, and joints, including back problems , osteoarthritis and osteoporosis .
• Neurological conditions – Disorders affecting the brain and nervous system, including strokes , epilepsy and multiple sclerosis .

Find the best Travel Insurance for your trip

Each trip will be slightly different if you’re travelling with cancer, so you might need a different policy depending on your travel plans.

• Heading off on a once-in-a-lifetime trip? Our Single Trip Travel Insurance will cover you for a single trip of up to 365 consecutive days. 
• Planning multiple trips abroad? Our Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance has you covered, no matter how many trips you do this year. 
• Big family holiday? Our Family Travel Insurance can cover the entire family (up to 10 people), in a single policy meaning that there’s less paperwork and more time for fun. 
• Taking a cruise? We’ve got you covered, with Cruise Insurance that protects you against things like cabin confinement, missed departures and even unused excursions.
• Golfing holiday? Our Golf Travel Insurance covers your clubs and insures you against unused Green Fees.
• Planning a staycation? You’re covered against medical fees, but what about other problems? Luckily, our UK Travel Insurance insures you against any cancelled accommodation or lost luggage.

How our Travel Insurance for Cancer Patients works: A simple 3 step quote process

Our 3-step quote process is quick and simple and designed to provide you with comprehensive worldwide cover.

Here’s how it works.

1. Get a quote online or by phone

Once you’re ready to start the quote process, the first step is to provide your personal details and information about your holiday and travel plans. This can be completed over the phone with one of our team members or online.

  Get your quote

2. Complete our simple medical screening process

You’ll need to declare that you have cancer, along with any other medical conditions you have. You may also need to provide information about any medications you and your travel companions are taking. Be sure to answer all our medical questions and tell us everything we need to know about your current health. 

This way, we can provide the cover that best suits your needs.

3. Get your quote

You’ll then get your quote(s) and can either proceed to buy or save your quote at this stage.

“Whether you’re living with cancer or are in remission, we’re here to help you travel with confidence. Our comprehensive Cancer Travel Insurance will keep you covered while you travel so you’re protected against any unexpected costs. With flexible, tailored policies to suit your needs, we’ll make sure you’re not left out of pocket, whatever issues could come up.”

Letitia Smith – Travel Insurance expert

What our customers say

“My husband has cancer which has metastasised and we wanted insurance for a week away. The man that arranged it for us was extremely helpful and talked us through everything. He gave me a reference number, I then booked the holiday and he rang back and we completed the booking. It was stress free, just what we needed.”

Mrs Anne Bedford

Date of experience: 15 January 2024

There’s a reason we’re the UK’s most trusted Travel Insurance provider 2 .

What our Customers Say

Frequently asked questions on cancer travel insurance, how much is travel insurance for cancer patients.

The cost of Travel Insurance for Cancer patients will change depending on your unique set of circumstances. The nature of your cancer, what stage it is at, whether or not you’re in active treatment, and if your cancer is expected to be or is currently in remission. All of this will alter the quote for your Travel Insurance. 

Here are a few other things that will also change your quote premium.

• Your destination: Some places carry a greater risk of you needing to claim or a more expensive health care system.
• Activities: While we cover some activities as standard, you’ll need to pay an additional premium to take part in others.
• Trip length: The longer you’re away, the greater the odds of a claim, and hence, the impact on the policy premium.
• Additional cover: You may want to include extra cover for a special type of holiday, such as a cruise or golfing holiday.

Do you need to declare previous cancer for Travel Insurance?

Yes, you need to declare any cancer that you have had medical treatment, consultation or check ups for in the last 2 years during the medical screening process . This still applies, even if your cancer has been in remission for years. This covers things like skin cancer and prostate cancer too. Even if your cancer has been in remission for years, you are still required to declare it during the medical screening process.

If you don’t declare all your pre-existing medical conditions, you may find that your policy becomes invalid, leaving you out of pocket for any unexpected medical costs while abroad, as well as any other holiday mishaps, like lost luggage, delays or cancellations.

Does skin cancer affect Travel Insurance?

Yes, having skin cancer will affect your Travel Insurance. Skin cancer counts as a pre-existing medical condition, and should be declared during the medical screening process . Even if your skin cancer has been in remission for years, it’s important to disclose it or you may find that your policy becomes invalidated.

How does medical screening for cancer impact your Travel Insurance cover?

Medical screening is an important step when buying Travel Insurance, as this lets your provider know what sort of cancer you have, and what sort of treatment you will or might need. If we have any specific cancer-related exclusions, you are not covered for any claims related to the cancer or its treatment.

What if you’re in remission from cancer?

50% of people diagnosed with cancer in England and Wales survive their disease for ten years . You must declare your cancer and that you are in remission if you have had medical treatment, consultation or check ups for it in the last 2 years.

What if your cancer is undiagnosed?

We can’t cover undiagnosed conditions.  So, we won’t be able to cover you for cancer if you’re in the middle of a diagnosis. We will, however, be able to cover you for other pre-existing medical conditions or issues on your trip. You just wouldn’t be covered for any treatment or costs relating to the undiagnosed health condition.

Is a GHIC card enough to cover you when travelling if you have cancer?

The UK Government recommends that you always have the correct level of Travel Insurance for the country you are visiting . It’s important to note that the GHIC covers you for some emergency medical bills in participating European countries. It won’t, however, cover you for other needs, like transport to and from the hospital. 

The GHIC also does not cover any other unexpected costs that might come up, such as lost baggage, delays or cancellations.

Get the most out of your trips with our helpful guides

Where are you visiting?

Explore our helpful guides for tips. They’ll help you remember everything you need when travelling to one of the below destinations.

What activities do you have planned?

Whether you’re planning a golfing holiday or setting sail on a cruise, remember to add the cover you need to your policy for a worry-free trip.

• United Kingdom
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Golf Travel Insurance

2 Based on Trustpilot reviews of all companies in the Travel Insurance Company category that have over 50,000 reviews as of February 2024.

Written by: Letitia Smith | Travel Insurance Expert Last Updated: 12 April 2024

3 - Based on Trustpilot reviews of all companies in the Travel Insurance Company category that have over 40,000 reviews as of September 2023.

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Cancer travel insurance

Travel insurance for cancer patients  

We can cover cancer of all types, up to a high level of severity.

• 24-hour emergency medical support
• No upper age limits
• Covid-19 cover included
• Retrieve quote

Awards & Accreditations

Total Travel Protection is brought to you by Ancile Insurance Group Limited who have been specialising in travel insurance cover for medical conditions and older travellers since 2010.

Travel insurance to cover cancer

Sadly, one in two people are likely to experience some form of cancer in their lifetime.

Here at Total Travel Protection, we’re committed to making sure that people can still go on the holidays they want to, safely insured, and regardless of existing medical conditions – so long as they are fit to travel.

That’s why we provide travel insurance for cancer patients; whether it be lung cancer, leukaemia, pancreatic cancer, or melanoma – any and all forms of cancer are included in our cover.

We deliver holiday insurance for cancer patients with diagnoses to a high degree of severity, and can still provide cover even if you are currently undergoing treatment such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy. For an idea of how much cover will cost, request your quote now.

Travel insurance cover and benefits

• Emergency medical & repatriation up to £10 million (Platinum Cover)
• 24 hour emergency medical assistance
• Cancellation cover up to £6,000 (Platinum Cover)
• Cover for mobility aids and prescription medication
• Personal property up to £3,000 (Platinum Cover)
• Personal liability up to £2 million (Platinum Cover)
• Legal expenses up to £25,000

Medical screening for cancer – we’re different

To give cancer patients and survivors a choice, and to help you get fair priced travel insurance for holidays abroad, we use a different system for medical screening to most other cancer travel insurance providers. That’s why you won’t find us on price comparison sites.

You can still get a quotation in minutes and complete your medical screening online or by phone, but we will ask you different questions about your conditions and assess your cancer in a different way which could lead to a better price.

Travel insurance protection for cancer

Total Travel Protection provides travel insurance protection that covers you and your holiday. Pre-existing medical conditions, including cancer, can be covered, up to a high level of severity. Once you have declared your cancer to us and purchased your policy you will be protected with cancellation cover and emergency medical expenses whilst you are abroad.

Included in all policies is cover for emergency medical expenses and repatriation (getting you home) up to £10 million per person whilst you are abroad, as well as access to our 24-hour emergency medical assistance team by phone, from where you are in the world.

Cover is also available for mobility aids, prescription medication, cancellation, personal possessions, legal expenses, personal liability and much more.

Cover for prescription medication

Living with cancer may mean you need to take prescription medicine with you on holiday, which could be costly and stressful if it’s lost or stolen. You can worry less, knowing that our cancer travel insurance policies include cover for loss of medication up to £300 per person.

Cancer cover - Buy online

Our travel insurance policies for cancer patients are available to buy online, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year through our website.

Our full range of medical screening and travel insurance products are all accessible online, you can notify us of your cancer diagnosis and request a quote whenever suits you best.

Cancer cover by phone

If you’d prefer to speak to someone, our team of experts are waiting to take your call. They are friendly, professional, and fully-trained to talk you through any queries you have or offer any help you might need.

You can call us on 0330 053 3747

We are open Sales:Monday to Friday 9am - 7pm.Saturday and Sunday 9am - 5.30pm.Customer service:Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm..

There is no difference in price or cover when you order online or by phone, you’ll receive the same excellent service either way.

Single trip insurance

Our single trip travel insurance is, as the name suggests, created to cover you, including your cancer diagnosis for one exact trip, starting and ending in the UK.

Cruise insurance

Cruises by river and sea are both covered as standard on all Total Travel Protection insurance policies, and you don’t need to tell us that you are going on a cruise.

Additional cover options

Additional cover including gadget, natural catastrophe and waiting list cover can be selected during the quote process.

Natural catastrophe

Natural catastrophe provides extra travel insurance cover for cancellation and unexpected additional expenses caused by catastrophic natural events such as hurricanes, fire, flood and volcanic eruptons. Read More

Gadget cover

This optional cover extends your travel insurance to include cover for loss, theft and damage to your gadgets, such as phones, tablets and smartwatches whilst you are away on your holiday. Read More .

Hazardous sports and activities

Our travel insurance policies provide cover for a number of sports and activities as standard, including trekking up to 2000 metres, sailing within 12 nautical miles of shore and glass bottomed boat trips. Additional cover for more adventurous activities can be added.  Read More

Missed connection cover

Ideal for cruise, coach or rail holidays that start from an overseas location, our Missed Connection option extends your travel insurance to include cover for additional expenses if you miss a connecting flight, ferry, cruise ship, train, or motor vehicle as a result of a delay to your initial international outbound transport.

Terrorism cover extension

Our terrorism cover extension provides additional travel insurance cover to enable you to cancel or cut short your trip if a terrorist act occurs within a 40-mile radius of your pre-booked accommodation.

Pet cancellation cover

This option extends the cancellation and curtailment section of your travel insurance to include unrecoverable holiday costs, such as transport, accommodation, and foreign car hire, if your pet dog or cat needs emergency life-saving treatment. Read More

Additional waiting list cover

Additional cancellation and curtailment cover if you are on a waiting list for treatment or investigation for a diagnosed condition.

Cancer Travel Insurance FAQ

What types of cancer can you cover.

We can cover all forms of cancer, up to a high level of severity: lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, melanoma, leukaemia and breast cancer are increasingly common, but we can also cover cancers which are not so common.

I have a terminal prognosis; can you still provide cover?

Possibly. As long as your prognosis is at least six months from the end date of your proposed trip, we may still be able to offer cover.

Why do I need to declare my cancer when I buy travel insurance?

It’s imperative to declare cancer and any other medical conditions you have when you purchase travel insurance so that you are covered for any emergency medical treatment you might need while you are away; and also in case you become unwell ahead of your holiday and need to cancel.

If a pre-existing medical condition, such as cancer, causes you problems while you are on holiday and you had not declared it in advance on your policy, you wouldn’t be covered by your travel insurance, which could result in costly medical bills.

How do I declare my cancer?

When you request a travel insurance quotation, either by phone or online, you will be able to declare your cancer and tell us more about your condition.It will only take a few minutes and can be done online or by phone.

Do I need to declare all of my pre-existing medical conditions?

Yes. It will allow us to get a fuller picture of your medical history, and therefore be able to provide you with the most suitable cover.If you haven’t declared a condition to us, it could lead to any claims being only partially paid out, or even denied altogether.

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