Having cancer doesn’t mean you have to stop travelling. Cover is available — you just need to know how to go about it. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you need to know.
Travel insurance
At insurd, we cover a wide range of pre-existing medical conditions, including cancer, with no upper age limit. Get a travel insurance quote in minutes.
Can you get travel insurance with cancer?
Yes. Travel insurance is available to people with a current or previous cancer diagnosis. The key requirement is that you declare your condition fully when you apply. Fail to do that, and any claim, even one unrelated to cancer, could be refused.
Whether you’re currently in treatment, between cycles, or in remission, cover may be available. It depends on your specific circumstances, the insurer, and your destination.
What will insurers ask?
When you apply, expect questions about:
- Your cancer type and stage
- When you were diagnosed
- Whether you’re currently receiving treatment
- Your most recent prognosis
- Any recent hospital visits or planned appointments
- Medication you’re taking
Have these details to hand before you apply. Your GP or oncology nurse can help if you’re unsure of anything.
What does travel insurance cover for cancer patients?
A policy that accepts your condition should cover:
- Emergency medical treatment abroad — hospital stays, consultations, and medication
- Repatriation — the cost of getting you home safely if your condition deteriorates
- Trip cancellation — if your health prevents you from travelling before departure
- Trip curtailment — if you need to return home early due to a medical emergency
- Missed departures — if cancer-related appointments affect your travel plans
Always check the policy wording to confirm cancer is listed as a covered condition, not excluded.
What about active treatment or remission?
If you’re in active treatment, some insurers will cover you, provided your doctor confirms you’re fit to travel. Others may restrict cover to periods between treatment cycles. Being in remission generally opens up more options, and the longer you’ve been cancer-free, the lower the premium is likely to be.
Either way, always declare your full history. Even resolved cancer must be disclosed.
Does a GHIC or EHIC cover cancer patients?
No — not adequately. A Global Health Insurance Card gives you access to state healthcare in EU countries, but it doesn’t cover repatriation, cancellation, or private treatment. It’s not a substitute for travel insurance. Carry both.
Tips for travelling with cancer
- Get a letter from your doctor confirming you’re fit to travel
- Carry a summary of your condition and current medications
- Take enough medication for the trip, plus extra in case of delays
- Save your insurer’s emergency number before you leave
Don’t let cancer stop you travelling
Travel insurance for cancer patients is achievable, the most important step is declaring your condition fully and finding an insurer set up to cover pre-existing conditions. Don’t let a diagnosis stop you from travelling.
Get a travel insurance quote with pre-existing conditions covered, no upper age limit.
