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Free Spirit

Medical Travel Insurance With No Age Limits

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Cancer travel insurance

Cancer is one of the most common medical conditions there is; the vast majority of us have been affected by cancer in some way or know someone who has. From 2013 to 2015, Cancer Research UK recorded almost 990 new cancer diagnoses every day in this country, with cancers of the breast, prostate, bowel and lung counting for over half of all new cases when combined.

Although it is widespread, cancer survival rates have improved hugely over time – doubling in the last 40 years in the UK. Cancer Research UK also asserts that half of the people diagnosed with cancer in England and Wales now survive it for ten years or more , which shows how far we have come in battling this condition.

Having cancer needn’t stop you from travelling abroad in any way, as long as your treating doctor is happy for you do so. That said, those who have had a bone marrow or stem cell transplant may find they are advised not to take any overseas trips for up to a year, to minimise their risks of infection. The way that cancer affects day-to-day life depends greatly on the type you have and other factors like your age and overall health, so be sure to assess your condition, and any other considerations,  with your GP before booking a trip.

Of course, it’s also essential to have cancer travel insurance cover in place before you head off too. Ours was the first scheme of its type specifically dedicated to people with pre-existing health conditions and/or disabilities and we have a strong track record of covering people who have been declined cover elsewhere. We are one of the UK’s largest medical travel insurance providers, as well as specialists in cancer travel insurance.

With our travel insurance for people with cancer, you can take a well-needed break or holiday knowing your condition is fully covered* and that you’ll be able to access any emergency medical care you might need while you’re away. Among other features, our travel insurance for cancer includes cancellation cover, loss or damage to medical aids and prescribed medications, plus repatriation to your home country if it’s medically necessary. Our 24-hour, 365 days a year medical emergency helpline will always be there if you need it.

What types of cancer do you cover?

At Free Spirit, we have over 20 years’ experience in providing travel insurance for cancer patients. Our cancer travel insurance extends to all types of the condition, including:

• Blood cancer
• Pre-existing breast cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Lung cancer
• Skin cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Cancer of the uterus
• Bowel cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP)
• Terminal cancer conditions – please call us on 02392 419 080

Why do I need cancer travel insurance?

While cancer shouldn’t be a barrier to enjoying a holiday with family, friends or by yourself, it does mean that you’ll need specialist travel insurance for cancer designed to cover your condition.  Like any existing health condition, cancer and its symptoms can be hard to predict, so it’s not worth risking a trip away without the protection that cancer travel insurance provides.

It is advisable to arrange travel insurance for cancer as soon as you have confirmed your travel plans. That way, if you were forced to cancel your trip due to your condition, you wouldn’t be left out of pocket for money already spent*.

As you may already have found, securing travel insurance when you have cancer can be difficult and soul-destroying, especially when you are rejected by other companies. Or, if you’re trying to source it for a close friend, work colleague , partner or children . Many standard travel insurance providers exclude existing health conditions from their cover. Our cancer travel insurance works differently , being specifically created to cater for people with all types of the condition. We can ensure that you won’t be left to pay any medical bills* for emergency treatment you might need while you’re away and that you will be covered for a host of other essential travel eventualities too.

How can I get travel insurance with cancer?

We aim to make obtaining an instant quote and arranging cancer travel insurance cover with Free Spirit as simple and straightforward as possible.

Our fully interactive website includes medical screening for quick and simple application online at any time or, if you’d rather speak to a UK-based expert we can take your call on 02392 419 080 .

What questions will I be asked when I apply?

In order to ensure you have the best cover for your circumstances, we will need to ask you about your condition and how it affects you. Although the questions will depend largely on the type of cancer you have, in most cases we will ask:

• How long ago was the initial diagnosis of cancer made?
• If diagnosed more than a year ago, how often have you been seeing a hospital doctor about this?
• Has the cancer ever spread to any other parts of your body?
• Was the cancer completely surgically removed after diagnosis?
• Are you currently having any treatment and/or is any planned?

What else is included with travel insurance for cancer?

Free spirit travel insurance policies provide the best medical benefits , such as aftercare at home following hospitalisation (including home help and physiotherapy) and a convalescence benefit (which provides up to £750 towards the cost of a trip in the UK if you were to be hospitalised abroad for over five days), as well as many non-healthcare related features. For example, your cancer travel insurance cover will protect you in the event of you having to cancel your holiday, missed or delayed departure, personal liability, or becoming separated from your passport, medication or medical aids, travel money or travel documents.

Your travelling companions can also be covered on your cancer travel insurance policy, whether they have a pre-existing medical condition or not. Including your whole travelling party on the same Free Spirit policy will ensure the whole party would be covered for their travel expenses if you had to cancel the trip due to your condition. This may not be the case if they were to take out travel insurance with another provider.

Why choose Free Spirit for cancer travel insurance?

• All types of cancer plus most medical conditions and disabilities are covered**
• No upper age limit on Single Trip and Annual Multi-trip
• Choice of two cover options – Super and Super Duper
• Single trips covered up to 115 days (45 days if aged 76 years or over)
• Annual Multi-trip provides an unlimited number of trips within 12 months – travel up to 32 days per trip (Super) and 45 days (Super Duper)
• Loss or damage to medical aids and prescribed medications

You can assess whether our cancer travel insurance is suitable for your needs by reading the full terms and conditions .

Advice for travelling with cancer

Whether or not you have taken trips overseas since being diagnosed with cancer, we know you may have questions or concerns ahead of your next holiday.

That’s why we’ve created a complete guide to travelling with cancer , containing a wealth of information on all aspects of travel, from arranging vaccinations to the best ways to take care of yourself abroad.

You can also find detailed information on travelling with cancer on the Macmillan Cancer Support , Cancer Research UK website or Maggies . Maggies is a charity that provides cancer support and information across the UK and online for free.

* Cover is subject to the terms, conditions and limits of the Insurance Policy .

** Subject to medical screening. In some cases, we cannot provide cover online and you will be asked to call us.

Cover your travelling companions on the same policy

Travelling companions can also be covered on Free Spirit, whether they have a pre-existing medical condition or not. By including your travelling companions on the same Free Spirit policy, you will ensure the whole party is covered. For example, if you had to cancel your holiday due to your medical condition, your travelling companions on the same policy would also be covered which may not be the case if they had taken out a policy elsewhere.

How to get your Free Spirit travel insurance for cancer quote

Obtaining an instant quote and arranging cover with Free Spirit could not be easier.

Our fully interactive website includes online medical screening.

If you wish to speak to our friendly staff in our UK call centre or have a terminal condition and would like a quote, please call 02392 419 080.

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My only experience with Free Spirit travel insurance has been the purchase of same but it was a good and efficient experience.

I have found it very refreshing to see how pleasant and helpful Free Spirit have been through a difficult time for my family and I. I am extremely imp…

I found the operators to be very knowledgeable and sympathetic and I would certainly recommend you to others. It is about more than just insurance to …

I wanted to commend you on a very pleasant and courteous customer service operator I spoke to regarding my travel insurance cover. Having numerous exi…

Credit where it is due, in this day and age where positive comments are rarely expressed, Eileen really is an excellent advertisement for your company…

I have assisted my friends one of whom has medical conditions with obtaining insurance cover with Free Spirit. This is the fifth year with Free Spirit…

Age U.K. recommended I contact free spirit when I required extra travel insurance to cover my medical condition. I found the questions asked for the c…

I should just like to commend Jonathon on his excellent customer service when dealing with my enquiry today. I was in a state of panic after being tol…

Obtaining quotes for travel insurance over the ‘phone is usually a long, drawn-out and miserable experience. What a difference with Free Spirit Travel…

I have used Free Spirit on several occasions now, and I would recommend this company to everyone. The customer service teams’ knowledge, support, un…

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Travel Insurance for Cancer Patients

Compare cover from as little as £8.71*.

Tommy has over 15 years experience within the insurance industry, and his primary focus is helping travellers find the right cover for their medical conditions.

Can you get travel insurance if you have cancer?

Yes, it is possible to get holiday insurance with cancer. While it is not guaranteed (it depends on the severity of your condition), most cancer patients should be eligible.

Travel insurance for cancer patients in the UK is offered by many specialist travel insurance providers. We work closely with these providers to ensure you get the best deal on travel insurance for people with cancer.

Holiday insurance for cancer patients is designed to cover you for any issues related to your condition while travelling.

Specialist Medical Cover

We only work with providers who specialise in covering pre-existing conditions.

No discounts. No pressure. We’ll always show you the best prices from providers.

What information do I have to disclose?

First of all, most insurance providers will expect you to tell them if you’ve  ever  had a cancerous condition. 

Just to be clear - this applies if:

• You’ve recently been diagnosed with a cancerous condition 
• Your cancer is in remission 
• You’ve been given the all-clear following treatment and are cancer-free

However, you should also bear in mind that insurance providers will also take your individual circumstances into account when you purchase a policy. 

For example, once you declare a cancer diagnosis - we’ll ask you a few questions about the nature of your condition, medical treatment, and anything else that can help us determine the type of insurance cover you would need from any given provider. 

This also applies when providers calculate the cost of your cover. For example, if you’ve had cancer in the past, but got the all-clear many years ago - your premium will be less than it would be if say you’ve had a recent diagnosis.

Which types of cancers are covered?

We understand that there are lots of different types of cancer. The good news is that we can help you find and compare travel insurance for cancer sufferers for a range of different cancerous conditions all in one place. 

We know that there are many different types of cancer, but here are just a few that we can help you find cover for.

• Breast Cancer Travel Insurance
• Prostate Cancer Travel Insurance
• Skin Cancer Travel Insurance

Top tips for travelling with cancer

Dr Sarah Jarvis is the Clinical Director of the Patient Platform, an active medical writer, broadcaster, and the resident doctor for BBC Radio 2.

More and more people are surviving cancer and having cancer certainly shouldn't mean you'll never get away with family and friends again. But cancer, and treatment for cancer, can definitely affect your energy levels, your chance of getting infections and more. However, with the right timing and the correct precautions, there is no reason you shouldn't be able to enjoy time away with your loved ones.

Be sure to check out my full guide with tips for travelling.

What is typically covered in a policy?

Different providers will include different types of cover, but the main things generally include:

• Cancellation
• Medical expenses & repatriation
• Theft/loss of belongings
• Personal accident

Cover will also depend on the nature of your condition (as per the answers you provide during medical screening, see below) and also whether you choose to select any optional extras.

Optional extras can be selected before comparing quotes. This relates to additional travel insurance that can be added on to your main policy. This includes gadget cover , cruise cover and winter sports cover . 

Medical screening for cancer travel insurance

Medical screening refers to the questions you’ll be asked about your condition. This helps travel insurance providers get more of an understanding of your individual circumstances and medical history - so they can offer you the right cover. 

If your cancer has spread to any other areas of the body, make sure to declare the primary cancer (where it started) first.

It’s also possible you will also be asked if you take strong painkillers. This refers to patches, tramadol and anything morphine based – if you’re not sure, please consult your doctor.

You must answer these questions as accurately as possible to ensure you find policies that fully cover you once abroad.  

If you need any further support or assistance when declaring your condition - just know that our friendly support team is on hand to answer any questions you might have.

Compare quotes from specialist insurance providers

Our online quote comparison tool is easy to use - and once you declare your condition, you can compare quotes from a variety of different specialist travel insurance providers in minutes. 

To get started, all you need to do is complete some personal details (including age) and tell us about your trip. 

Following on from this you can declare your pre-existing conditions before comparing quotes. You’ll be able to sort out your travel insurance in a matter of minutes - meaning you can crack on with the more exciting things on your holiday to-do list. 

Once you’ve listed your personal details, all you need to do is tell us about your trip and any pre-existing conditions before comparing quotes. 

Again, it’s worth reminding you that we work with the very best and most reputable providers - so you can be sure you’re in good hands.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Once you've declared all your relevant pre-existing medical conditions, we'll only show you quotes based on the conditions you have told us about.

If you don't travel much then a single trip cover is perfect as you can cover specific dates suited to your trip. If you have cancellation cover, you'll also benefit from this as soon as you buy your policy.

If you travel 2 or more times a year, it may be cheaper for you to go for an annual multi-trip cover. It's best to start your annual trip cover as soon as possible, as if you have cancellation cover, you'll only benefit from this from your policy start date.

* Price is based on 1 traveller aged 61, who has declared Breast Cancer and is travelling to France for 7 nights. The price is correct as of April 2024. Prices may vary according to your individual requirements.

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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.

Preparing for your trip

You might have particular physical needs since your treatment. You might be more tired or have a higher risk of getting an infection. Or you may be more sensitive to the sun after having radiotherapy or certain cancer drugs.

There could also be practical issues to think about, such as:

• whether you’ll have the facilities you need if you get tired easily
• will you need wheelchair access.

You also need to think about when to travel. There are times when you shouldn’t travel. For example, you shouldn’t fly too soon after surgery. It’s worth talking to your doctor or nurse so they can advise you.

It’s also very important to get travel insurance in case you need medical treatment while you are away. The insurance will cover the costs for you. A good policy will also pay for you to be flown home if you become ill.

• Read about when not to travel and how to get travel insurance

Your journey

Some cancers and their treatments can increase your risk of getting a blood clot. Sitting still for a long time can increase the risk, whether you are travelling by plane, car or bus.

So however you’re travelling, think about how long it will take and whether you can manage the journey comfortably. 

If you are travelling by plane and need oxygen, you need to arrange this with the airline in advance. Allow plenty of time to sort it out because it can take some time. 

• Having oxygen on holiday

Help from airlines and travel companies

Travel companies and some airlines have a medical officer who can give you advice about your journey.

Almost all airlines will have advice on their website or a customer service department (specialist assistance) you can contact. Let them know about any disability you have and the equipment you might need. 

They will be able to arrange any help you might need including:

• early boarding and finding a suitable seat
• wheelchairs
• transfers to and from the airport
• help organising oxygen

Your doctor might need to fill out a form or a letter showing that you are well enough to fly. Ask your doctor for this several weeks before you travel. 

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

Healthcare outside Europe

You will need to pay for healthcare in most countries. So you should get travel insurance, as this could be very expensive.

The UK has agreements with some non-European countries so that people can receive free or low cost emergency care if needed.

• See which countries currently have a healthcare agreement with the UK

Protection against mosquito-borne diseases

Before you travel to a tropical country, it’s important to check whether you need any anti malaria medicine. There are different medicines available. You start some 1 to 2 days before you travel and others 2 to 3 weeks before you leave.

You must keep taking the medicines while you’re away and for 1 to 4 weeks afterwards, depending on the drug.

Your doctor can check which medicines are suitable for the country you’re going to. And they can tell you if it’s safe to take them with any other drugs you’re having.

Although these medicines work very well, they can’t give 100% protection. So you still need to take care to avoid mosquito bites while you are away. Use an effective insect repellent at all times.

Mosquitoes in some countries can also carry other diseases such as dengue fever, Zika and chikungunya. So using an effective insect repellent at all times can help to protect you against these diseases.

Avoiding mosquito bites

To avoid mosquito bites you should:

• use insect repellent on your skin. You can also use some repellents or insecticides on clothing
• sleep under a mosquito net that has been treated with insecticide, if your room doesn’t have air conditioning or screens on the doors and windows
• keep covered up with long sleeved tops and trousers, especially if you’re going out at night. You can apply DEET based insect repellents to cotton clothing and natural fibres

What to do if you become ill

The most common symptoms of malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases are: 

• a high temperature (fever)
• sweats and chills
• muscle aches and pains

The symptoms of malaria usually develop within 4 weeks of infection. But in some cases, it can take up to a year.

The following websites provide further information based on which part of the UK you live in.

• England, Wales and Northern Ireland

Taking medicines abroad

Think about any medicines you’re taking. You’ll need to plan how much you need to take with you and get those prescriptions before you go.

It’s a good idea to take supplies for a few extra days, in case you’re delayed getting back from your trip.

You might need to make special arrangements if you’re taking any controlled drugs, such as morphine based painkillers.

• Find out more about taking medicines abroad

Related links

Getting travel insurance.

Travel insurance is very important for people who have or have had cancer. It’s important to know how to get travel insurance and what’s involved.

Travel vaccinations

To visit some countries, you’ll need vaccinations before you leave. It’s a good idea to get advice about this at least 8 weeks before you travel.

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.

Coping practically

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

Travelling with cancer

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.

It’s a worrying time for many people and we want to be there for you whenever - and wherever - you need us. Cancer Chat is our fully moderated forum where you can talk to others affected by cancer, share experiences, and get support. Cancer Chat is free to join and available 24 hours a day.

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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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If you're living with cancer but love to travel, can you get travel insurance for your trip?

We've looked at points to consider that may help you find cover, and where to go for expert advice.

Posted: 30/1/2022 | By Amanda Duffy

Travel insurance  is so important. It’s the best way to make your trip as worry-free as possible, and if you've suffered from or are suffering from cancer then that peace of mind is even more precious. Luckily, finding travel insurance for cancer sufferers is possible as companies look to consider all conditions. It used to be the case that insurers would either charge huge amounts to cover the risks, or simply refuse to cover cancer patients. Today there are many specialist policies on the market that can help people with cancer make trips abroad with proper insurance cover to protect them.

Find out about getting travel insurance with a pre-existing medical condition like cancer

Travel insurance for people with cancer.

More than one in three people develop cancer in their lifetime. For many patients, a holiday promises a well-needed chance to relax, but finding a policy that covers your condition can be hard. So how do you get travel insurance if you have cancer? It depends on a few things. If you know what insurers are going to ask, you can prepare as best you can and make getting holiday insurance easier.

You can make a start by asking your doctor if you should be travelling with cancer. They will be able to explain if it’s appropriate and safe. If you can go abroad, you will need to make sure you have support and the right medication with you.

If you have cancer, you may already have seen the NHS page on all the different kinds of cancer , and their outlook for treatment. This page is a good place to begin arming yourself with the facts before speaking to an insurer.

How to get travel insurance

Getting the right holiday insurance for people with cancer is crucial. It means that if you need treatment while you’re away, you won’t have any nasty surprises when it comes to the bill. It also means that if you need to cancel your holiday because of your condition, you won’t lose out financially.

So when you call to get holiday insurance, you should make sure you have the following information:

• the kind of cancer that you have
• the names of any medication you have been taking
• The date and nature of your recent treatments

You should expect to answer lots of questions about your prognosis so it will make it easier if you have all the information about your condition and treatment to hand.

What kind of holiday insurance is there?

One of our tips for getting travel insurance with cancer is to look hard at the insurance policies on offer and see which one best suits your condition and planned trip away. As there are many forms of cancer, each carrying a different level of risk, our medical questionnaire is designed to assess whether or not you can get cover. Answer all questions as accurately as you can to ensure that the correct level of cover can be offered to you. Your type of cancer will not be the only factor - travelling to places where medical costs are significantly higher can affect what insurance options are available. Therefore opting to stay in Europe rather than visiting countries such as the USA might affect the cover you can get. Single trip cover might mean you pose less of a risk - considering you are going on one journey rather than several - so you might want to look at this sort of possibility if you've suffered from cancer.

Medical treatment

You should try and choose a destination that’s suitable for your needs. A good tip is to check ahead and make sure that there are appropriate facilities where you’re headed. Do they have a good hospital nearby? Are there doctors you can rely on, and will there be pharmacies where you can get medical supplies if you need them?

Another good tip for travelling with cancer is to get a Global Health Insurance Card (Ghic). A valid Ghic means you can access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in another European Economic Area (EEA) country or Switzerland. Just remember that the Ghic card isn’t a replacement for travel insurance: you are likely to still need specialist holiday insurance with cancer support .

Where to find more advice

If you are looking for more tips, then help is at hand. Several leading cancer charities publish specialist guides online that can really make a difference. Cancer Research UK have lots of advice for cancer sufferers looking to go abroad, including a guide to travelling with medication .

You can also find more tips for travelling with cancer from Macmillan , who can offer you valuable advice including tips from real people talking about how they manage.

How you get holiday insurance if you have cancer is up to you. There are policies out there, but you should always go in armed with the information you need and with realistic expectations of where and when you should go.

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Travel insurance for people with cancer

We believe travel insurance should be available to as many people as possible. If you’re living with or are in remission from cancer, you may be concerned about whether travel insurance will cover you. Or perhaps you’ve had trouble getting covered in the past.  That’s where our cancer travel insurance can help.

Can you get travel insurance if you have cancer?

Yes, we are able to provide travel insurance if you have cancer. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed, are currently undergoing treatment, or even if you’re living with terminal cancer, we consider all medical conditions. We’ll also cover you if you’re in remission. 

Although there are around 375,000 new cancer cases in the UK every year, many providers do not offer travel insurance for cancer patients. 

Our travel insurance for cancer patients covers all destinations, allowing you to enjoy your travels with ease.

Here are some reasons why having travel insurance is essential:

• Repatriation costs: In the unfortunate event of a medical emergency, repatriation costs can be exceptionally high. In one case, the cost of medical treatment in Spain following a fall and emergency medical repatriation back to the UK was an eye-watering £124,000 . Our travel insurance covers these expenses, ensuring you can return home safely and receive appropriate medical care.
• Trip cancellation or interruption: Cancer treatments can be unpredictable, and there may be instances where travel plans change due to health reasons. This type of travel insurance will cover any unexpected costs related to cancellations and interruptions. 
• Medical evacuation: If you need specialised emergency treatment, not available at your travel destination, medical evacuation may be necessary. This is particularly crucial for individuals with aggressive cancers like melanoma or sarcoma, where swift access to specialised care is critical. We will cover the costs associated with medical evacuation to ensure you receive timely and appropriate treatment, no matter where you are in the world.
• Around-the-world support: Travelling with cancer can be emotionally challenging, but having comprehensive travel insurance tailored to your medical needs allows you to focus on enjoying your journey without medical or financial worries. We also offer a 24/7 emergency medical helpline if you need while travelling.
• Medical emergencies: Cancer patients, especially those undergoing treatment for aggressive forms like leukaemia or advanced stages of breast cancer, face heightened risks of medical emergencies while travelling. We cover the cost of emergency medical care, allowing you to continue enjoying your trip.

What types of cancer does InsureandGo’s cancer travel insurance cover?

We can cover all types of cancer. Below are some of the most common types that we have covered:

• Breast cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Lung cancer
• Bowel cancer
• Brain cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Skin cancer

We also cover less common cancers, which include:

• Ovarian cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Liver cancer
• Kidney (renal) cancer
• Esophageal cancer
• Stomach (gastric) cancer
• Metastatic cancer
• Multiple myeloma

If your cancer is not mentioned above, don’t worry. During your quote process , you can include the type of cancer you’re living with and proceed with your quote.

Holiday cover for all stages of cancer

We can provide cover for all stages of cancer, from early stages through to remission. This includes intermediate cancer stages, as well as travel insurance for stage 4 cancer and metastatic cancer. We understand the varying needs of travellers with cancer and will tailor a policy to your specific medical requirements.

After completing our simple medical screening, we carefully consider all stages of cancer when determining your cover.

Holiday cover for terminal cancer

We can offer you cover if you have terminal cancer, as long as:

• Your prognosis is more than 6 months from your return date
• Your GP has confirmed that you are fit to travel

However, if you are waiting for one of the above and are still keen to travel, please get in touch with us. We may be able to provide you with a quote depending on your circumstances.

What does InsureandGo’s cancer travel insurance cover?

When you’re travelling with cancer or are in remission, you’ll want to make sure you’re protected in the event of any unexpected medical emergencies or complications related to your condition. Our travel insurance policies cover you for all medical emergencies, and repatriation back to the UK if necessary. 

Here’s what is covered under our cancer travel insurance policies.

What’s covered?

All our cancer travel insurance policies include:

• Medical emergency expenses.
• Cover for cancellation of your trip.
• Our 24-hour emergency assistance team , available to call, day or night, wherever you are
• Over 100 sports and activities covered (see your policy wording for a full list of activities)
• Personal belongings and baggage cover.
• Personal money, passports and travel documents cover.
• Accommodation cover.
• Legal expenses cover.

What’s not covered?

We aim to provide as much cover as possible, however, there are some situations that travel insurance will not cover. For example:

• You cannot cover events or reasons to claim which took place before you booked the trip or purchased insurance. Insurance exists to cover unexpected events outside of the insured’s control
• Claims which are less than the excess for that section of cover. For example, you cannot claim a £40 lost item if your baggage excess is £60
• All our travel insurance policies for cancer patients policies include cover for cancellation of your trip, but there may be some exclusions. For example, you won’t be covered to cancel if you simply decide not to go

Find out about our optional add ons for activities like extreme sports , winter sports , cruises and golf . 

We will consider all types and stages of cancer. And we’ll cover you if you have other pre-existing medical conditions too. Find out more about medical travel insurance . The excess and amount of cover available varies depending on the level of travel insurance you buy. Check the policy wording to see the full terms and conditions.

The best travel insurance for your holiday

We offer multiple types of travel insurance to help you enjoy worry-free travels. Whether you’re planning on seeing friends and family in Europe, travelling for business, or touring further afield we can help you find the cover you need.

• Cruises : Relax and unwind on your cruise, knowing you’re covered for all the essentials. Including cabin confinement, missed port departures, curtailment and more cruise-related incidents
• Business travel : Ideal for one-off work trips and regular business trips. This type of insurance covers you for accidents, illness, flight cancellations, lost or damaged equipment and more
• Winter sports travel insurance – fancy a trip away this winter? This policy covers you for all winter sports, from skiing and snowboarding to snowmobiling and glacier walking . Available if you’re under 65 and for trips of up to 365 days
• Activities travel insurance – we cover over 100 activities in our standard policies. However, if you’re looking to try something a little different, like hot air ballooning or jet skiing, you might need our activities travel insurance

Choose a cover level to suit your travel needs

Cancer travel insurance with other pre-existing medical conditions.

We know that finding travel insurance while living with cancer can be difficult. At InsureandGo, we consider all types of cancer and treatment stages. We also cover a range of pre-existing health conditions separate to cancer.

To get your quote, you will need to complete our quick and easy online medical screening process.

Some examples of other common health concerns we cover include:

• Heart condition
• High blood pressure

If your condition is not listed above, it’s likely we’ll still cover it. Please read our policy wording to learn what is and isn’t covered. Alternatively, you can talk to one of our trained staff members for more information.

How to book our cancer travel insurance

We make finding your travel insurance with cancer quick and easy, with just two simple steps:

1. Tell us where you’re going, who you want to cover and some details about your pre-existing medical conditions

Do this online now or give us a call:

2. Get your quote and your cover

Receive your quote and you can decide to either purchase your insurance policy straight away or save it for later.

“We know that finding travel insurance while living with cancer can be difficult. That’s why we work with you to find a policy that suits your medical needs and preferences. Our travel insurance for cancer patients and those in remission covers your emergency medical needs, as well as things like cancellation cover, personal belongings protection, travel delays and more.” Lydia Crispin – Travel insurance expert

Our reviews speak for themselves

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Frequently asked questions on travel insurance for cancer patients

What is the best travel insurance for cancer patients.

The best travel insurance for cancer patients and those in remission is a comprehensive policy that covers all your medical conditions. If you need to make a claim related to your medical condition while travelling, you will want a policy that covers the cost of medical emergencies. This could also include treatments, hospitalisations, and repatriation if necessary.

Remember, medical costs abroad can become expensive very quickly. If you have a stomach bug or infection treated in a hospital in the USA and need to get home, return flights could cost you around £100,000 .

Which destinations are covered by InsureandGo’s travel insurance for cancer?

We can provide cover for any destination, regardless of your medical condition.

Whether you’re planning on soaking up the sun in the Caribbean , hitting the slopes in France or heading to the States , we can tailor a policy to your medical needs.

Other destinations we provide cover for cancer patients include:

• India 
• Italy 
• Mexico 
• Portugal 
• Scandinavia 
• Spain 
• Thailand 
• Turkey 
• Vietnam 
• Qatar 

Don’t worry if your planned destination is not covered above. Speak to one of our team members to learn more about what destinations we can cover you for.

How much is travel insurance for people with cancer?

This depends on several factors. Primarily, where you’re travelling to and your current state of health. This includes specific details of your cancer diagnosis, such as the stage and treatment plan and whether you’re in remission.

Additionally, the duration of your trip and the level of cover you need will also impact the cost of your travel insurance. It’s important to provide detailed and accurate information during your quote process so you get the best cover.

Does the cost of cancer travel insurance rise depending on the holiday destination?

Yes, as there are certain regions which are more expensive for medical treatment. This means the premium for the cover will rise as well. 

To find out how much your insurance will cost with the destination in mind, contact us or get a quote online.

Can I get travel insurance if I have terminal cancer?

Yes, we consider all types of cancer and cancer stages. 

As long as the prognosis is more than 6 months from your return date and your GP has confirmed that you are fit to travel, we are confident we can provide you with cover.

Can I get travel insurance if I’m in remission?

Yes, you can get travel insurance if you’re in remission. We will just need you to complete a simple medical screening. Get a quote online to go through our screening process.

However, you will need to declare what type of cancer you have and that you’re in remission. Failure to do so may result in you not being covered.

Do I need to declare previous cancer for medical insurance?

Yes, it is essential you declare if you have previously had cancer or are in remission. The same goes with any pre-existing medical conditions you are living with.

This is made easy through our quote process .

Is cancer considered a pre-existing medical condition for travel insurance?

For your travel insurance, we consider a pre-existing condition to be any condition where you have: 

• Taken any prescribed medication or required medical treatment within the last 2 years
• Been registered in or been an outpatient at a hospital, clinic or GP surgery in the last 2 years.
• Been advised of a terminal illness.

Who can buy an InsureandGo cancer travel insurance policy?

All our travel insurance for cancer patient policies are available to UK residents. This means:

• Someone who has been living in the UK or the Channel Islands for at least six of the last 12 months
• They must be in the UK at the time of purchase
• All trips must start and end in the UK

Get a quote online or browse our policy documents for more information.

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Frequently asked questions.

If you’ve got more questions about how our travel insurance for people with cancer works, or more general travel insurance queries, have a read through our FAQs .

Travel advice

Our travel advice section offers handy tips and guides to specific countries, from what documents you need to what you might visit while you’re there.

Travel insurance reviews

If you want to know what our customers think of us, and why they rate us so highly, have a read through some of the reviews they’ve left us.

*Discount excludes any premium generated to cover medical conditions or optional extras & is automatically applied. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Discount tiers of 5% for premiums between £0-49, 10% for £50-249, & 20% for £250+ apply. Offer ends at 23:59 on 02/09/24. T&Cs apply.

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Pre-Existing Medical Condition Travel Insurance

Great value for money Travel Insurance to protect you and your family when travelling: on holiday, on business, on a cruise, backpacking or on a winter sports trip

• 1,000s of Medical Conditions Covered on Able2Travel Policies
• Over 15 years experience covering people with Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
• Trip Cancellation - up to £5,000
• Emergency Medical Expenses - up to £10,000,000

Great Value Travel Insurance

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3 Options available including: Cruise Cover Option, Winter Sports Cover Option, Sports Travel Insurance... see all

Why Choose Able2Travel?

• Specialists in travel insurance for people with existing medical conditions
• Full Cover available for 1,000s of conditions
• Instant cover by telephone or quick and easy online screening in a few minutes
• Great value cover also available for you and everyone travelling with you

Able2Travel Cancer Travel Insurance

Having trouble buying travel insurance after having cancer? If you are a cancer patient you will know how hard it can be to find travel insurance providers that are willing to cover your condition. At Able2Travel Travel Insurance we believe that going on holiday and getting away from everyday life is all part of the recovery process and therefore travel insurance for cancer sufferers needn’t be out of reach.

Fortunately, providing you have not been given terminal prognosis, Able2Travel Travel Insurance may be able to help you find travel insurance cover for your trip so that you are able to travel with the peace of mind Travel Insurance for cancer sufferers provides.

We have experience of providing travel cover to individuals who've suffered from a range of different cancers, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, bowel cancer and more. Our approach is to treat each travel insurance enquiry on a case-by-case basis using our dedicated team of cancer travel insurance specialists to help you make an informed decision about the travel insurance appropriate to your needs. If you're in need of cancer travel insurance, then you've come to the right place.

What cancers has Able2Travel Travel Insurance covered in the past?

In the past we have successfully provided cancer travel insurance cover for patients suffering with the following forms of cancer:

• Breast Cancer
• Bowel Cancer
• Lung Cancer
• Prostate Cancer
• Skin Cancer or Melanoma
• Kidney Cancer
• Testicular Cancer
• Pancreatic Cancer
• Bladder Cancer
• Liver Cancer
• Ovarian Cancer
• Stomach Cancer

Are You Looking for Travel Insurance While On A Waiting List?

If you’re currently on a waiting list for treatment or surgery for a diagnosed medical condition, this doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t or shouldn’t travel. Here at Able2Travel, there’s a strong possibility that we may be able to find you a Travel Insurance solution, so you can travel with peace of mind while on a waiting list.

We may even be able to find you cover just in case you have to cancel or end your holiday early, due to a change of date for your treatment or surgery, which many other insurance providers simply can’t offer.

To get a quote for Travel Insurance while on a waiting list for medical treatment, please contact Able2Travel on  +44 (0)1483 806 826  to speak with one of our specialists.

Cancer Travel Insurance - What is Covered?

Our cancer travel insurance policies offer competitive protection for your trip including a wide range of policy benefits such as:

• Emergency Medical Cover – up to £10 million
• Baggage - up to £3,000
• Travel Delay & Missed Departure - up to £1,000
• Travel Accident - up to £20,000

Other Areas of Cover Included as Standard

• Cover for 1,000s of Medical Conditions
• Cruise Cover
• Loss of Travel Documents - up to £500
• Plus so much more...

Additional Cover Available

• Optional Sports Cover
• Additional Cover for your cruise - including missed port cover

Click here to see the full Able2Travel Travel Insurance Table of Benefits.

Able2Travel Travel Insurance has over 15 years of experience in finding cover for travellers with medical conditions, so whether you are looking for travel insurance for cancer, a heart condition or for another medical problem, you can be assured of receiving a fast, sensitive and competitively priced cancer travel insurance solution for your travel plans.

What COVID Cover Is Available on Able2Travel Travel Insurance For Those With Medical Conditions?

All our Able2Travel Medical Condition Travel Insurance policies include Coronavirus (COVID-19) cover at no additional cost. However, our policy will ONLY provide cover for claims directly or indirectly related to a pandemic and/or epidemic, including but not limited to Coronavirus (COVID-19) within the following sections:

• Section A – Trip Cancellation
• Section B – Trip Interruption
• Section C – Travel Delay & Missed Departure
• Section F – Emergency Medical Cover/Dental Cover Abroad
• Section G - Emergency Transportation

You can find full details of what is and isn't covered in relation to Coronavirus within the policy wording .

Click the “Get a Quote” button to get specialist medical travel insurance with COVID cover to protect your holiday.

Cancer Travel Insurance - Policy Features

Able2Travel Travel Insurance offers 3 levels of travel insurance cover for both Single Trip and Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance policies, enabling you to pick a travel policy that is suited for your individual needs.

The policy features table below will help you understand the different features on Single Trip and Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance policies depending on the level of travel cover that you choose.

*Available to extend to 45 days or 60 days for an additional premium.

**Available to extend to 45 days for an additional premium.

If you would like to contact us either email us at: [email protected] , or call us on +44 (0)1483 806 826 .

How do I get a Cancer Travel Insurance Quote?

It’s quick and easy to get an Able2Travel Travel Insurance for cancer quote: just click the ‘Get a Quote’ button to get a cancer travel insurance quote online, or if you prefer to speak with someone then you can call our team direct on 01483 806 826 .

All Cancer Travel Insurance enquiries are dealt with on a case-by-case basis. In addition to the Able2Travel Travel Insurance policy, our travel insurance specialists have access to a wide range of travel insurance options and will assist you in finding travel cover for all medical conditions. The Able2Travel Travel Insurance policy is used whenever possible and a suitable alternative travel insurance policy may be offered for more serious health problems, so you can find the travel cover you need with one call to Able2Travel Travel Insurance.

For a cancer travel insurance quote please call 01483 806 826 or click the button below!

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Prefer to talk to us, additional policy options for pre-existing medical condition travel insurance, cruise cover option, winter sports cover option, sports travel insurance.

Add Optional Cruise Cover to your Able2Travel Travel Insurance policy to include specific cruise related cover for Missed Port, Cabin Confinement, Low/High Water, Shore Excursions, and Denied Boarding.

Winter Sports Cover will provide protection for lost, damaged or stolen ski equipment whether its owned or hired, and cover in place should you miss any prepaid activities.

Add the Sports Cover Option to your Able2Travel Travel Insurance policy if you plan on taking part in sports whilst on your trip, including Golf!

Important Information for Customers with Serious Medical Conditions

MoneyHelper has developed a directory of specialist travel insurance to ensure customers with pre-existing medical conditions are easily able to obtain access to affordable travel insurance. If we are unable to help you and you are struggling to find medical cover that suits your needs, due to a serious medical condition, you may find a company that can help you through the MoneyHelper travel insurance directory www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/everyday-money/insurance/travel-insurance-directory  or by calling 0800 138 7777 - Monday to Friday, 8am – 6pm. 

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Cancer remission travel insurance

We at AllClear believe everyone deserves the opportunity to travel. For those living in remission, AllClear can offer cancer patient remission travel insurance - so that you can enjoy and make the most of your trip. Our individually tailored policies provide cover for cancellations and medical expenses.

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Travel insurance for cancer patients in remission, travel tips for cancer patients in remission.

Cancer remission travel insurance covers you if you’re currently living in remission, and wish to travel with confidence. Designed to provide you with peace of mind, this type of insurance covers you for medical emergencies, which is vital to prevent any unexpected medical bills and unnecessary complications that could arise when you’re away.

If you are living with cancer, our holiday insurance takes all your needs and requirements into account. All our policies are tailored to you and your condition.

During your quote you declare any pre-existing medical conditions . This only takes a few minutes and afterwards we’ll give you a selection of tailored quotes to choose from. Select the level of cover you want and feel confident on your travels, with a little help from AllClear

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Speak to your gp or healthcare provider.

• Depending on how long it has been since you received the all clear, it could be worth speaking to your GP to assess your medical needs and check you won’t be at additional risk of catching an infection. Your airline might need a fit to travel letter from your GP, so this can be arranged too. For six months (sometimes longer) after treatment fatigue and weakness may be an issue, so they’ll work with you to ensure you can travel at the best time to enjoy your trip abroad.

Choose the right destination

• As we mention above, fatigue may need to be taken into consideration. It’s best to fully enjoy a holiday closer to home than feel tired and stressed due to a strenuous journey so choose a destination you can manage. Remember long-haul flights can be uncomfortable to someone in good health so bear in mind how you’ll feel at the time you fly.

Remember your EHIC

• If you are travelling within Europe apply for an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) and take it with you on holiday. The EHIC replaces the E111 and is free of charge through the NHS Choices’ website. The EHIC entitles you to free or reduced cost medical care in the country you are visiting. It’s called a reciprocal health service agreement.
• However, reciprocal health service agreements do not always cover the full cost of treatment and won’t cover the cost of getting you home in an emergency. It’s essential to take out medical travel insurance in addition to the EHIC.

Vaccinations after cancer

• Live vaccinations contain tiny amounts of the virus you’re being protected against, and are not recommended six months after chemotherapy. This is because they can cause serious infections to a weakened immune system. Inactivated vaccines are safe after treatment, but may be less effective if you have a weakened immune system. Your GP will be able to advise further on which vaccines are suitable and which to avoid.

Sun care after radiotherapy

• Taking care in the sun is important for everyone. If you’ve had radiotherapy, the skin on and around the treatment area can stay sensitive for several years. Use a very high SPF of at least 50, and be sure to reapply every few hours. Try to keep the area covered when in the sun and avoid sunbathing during the heat of the day – don’t forget your sunblock! Check timings of when this is likely to be before you travel, and use a very high SPF of at least 50.

Simple 3 step quote process

1. call us or click a quote button on our site, 2. complete our simple medical screening process, 3. get your quotes, we’re proud to have a 5 star rating on trustpilot, read allclear trustpilot reviews.

Written by: Lydia Crispin | Travel Insurance Expert Last Updated: 18 September 2023

† Based on Trustpilot reviews of all companies in the Travel Insurance Company category that have over 70,000 reviews as of January 2024. AllClear Gold Plus achieved a Which? Best Buy.

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UK travel insurance

Is there such a thing as travel insurance to cover cancellation but in UK only. I am on chemotherapy and my side effects are very random and sometimes have little notice. Alot of places have free cancellation but most need at least a 4 weeks notice.  

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I hope this information I've found about cancer and travel insurance will help you find what you're looking for JLB123, but for further information and advice it may be worth giving the Macmillan helpline a call as they have specialist advisors you can speak to about this who should be able to assist you further.

Hopefully some of our members who have been able to find such travel insurance will share their tips and advice with you soon. 

Kind regards,

Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

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Your Health To-Do List When Traveling to the UK

Last Updated on January 6, 2024

Health and fitness holidays in the UK have gained immense popularity in 2023. With The Guardian’s  extensive catalog  of wellness travel featuring everything from invigorating running breaks in Scotland to serene mindful walking weekends in Wales, the spotlight on traveling for your well-being has never been stronger. However, as tourists increasingly seek vacations that align with their health goals, prioritizing well-being beyond simple wellness retreats is equally important.

A proactive approach to health ensures you can enjoy the mainland and different islands of the UK without worrying about getting sick along the way. To maximize your health outcomes, preparation must begin long before the first boarding call. Below, we take a closer look at four health to-dos before traveling to the UK in 2024.

Update your vaccines

Traveling increases your chances of spreading diseases that are rare in your home country. Hence,  updating your vaccines  is not only a preventive measure for your well-being but also a responsible action to protect the communities you visit.

For example, there are routine vaccines that are recommended for anyone going to the UK, such as chickenpox, shingles, or the flu. You can always have additional vaccines for certain conditions if you think you’re more likely to be exposed to them. For instance, hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for travelers who plan to visit smaller villages and rural areas. Otherwise, it’s crucial to check for any travel health notice regarding current health issues in your destination. As of September 2023, the UK was placed under Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions for poliovirus, so it would be wise to be up to date on your polio vaccines.

Check your eye health

Vision health can significantly impact your adventures. Yet, the process of safeguarding your eye health can vary across different locations. For one, eyeglass wearers who lost their glasses may struggle to find a new pair in rural areas, leading to blurry and uncomfortable vision for the rest of the trip. In that case, it’s best to have spare eyeglasses on hand.

However, there are various accessible options for vision care. If you need to immediately replace your eyewear, then you can find affordable options for different types of  glasses  at eyewear retailer Glasses Direct, with deals such as 2-for-1 designer frames from £69 (approximately $88). This can be ordered online and delivered directly to your accommodations. If you need a new prescription, then you can easily book an eye test at the multiple branches of Asda Opticians or Vision Express. You might also qualify for a free eye test from the NHS in Scotland as an overseas visitor, so try to register with a general medical practice as soon as you arrive at your destination.

Check your oral health

Maintaining good oral health is vital on international journeys, especially longer trips. Similar to eye health maintenance, however, this process can be a little difficult in a new location. This can be particularly challenging in the UK, which has had a  shortage of dentists  since 2021, with dental tourism at record highs. In fact, UK-based consultancy Medical Travel Market received over 1,500 inquiries in 2023, up more than 450% from 2022.

Thus, consulting with a dentist before any extended trip is crucial, especially for those with ongoing treatments, such as braces or retainers. Your dentist may need to adjust your braces to a safer setting before your travels or equip you with an extra retainer. These will help you avoid the inconvenience of seeking orthodontic treatment during your travels. If it comes down to it, then you may have to find a private clinic in the UK or line up for NHS dental services if eligible.

Secure travel insurance

As you embark on the journey of a lifetime, it’s crucial to have a safety net in place. Factors such as trip duration or destinations should be taken into account when securing  travel insurance . For instance, annual contracts normally cover up to 30 days maximum, whereas backpacking insurance can range from three months to a year. A helpful tip: most travel insurance comes with a deductible that you must pay beforehand. Clarify this policy when making any purchase.

That being said, take your time to compare several insurance companies, then, upon your selection, inform your provider about your travel plans. Understanding your coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unexpected events will provide peace of mind throughout your journey.

By prepping in advance, you lay the foundation for a journey to the UK filled with memorable moments and peace of mind. Remember, taking care of your health is not only a personal responsibility but also a commitment to fostering a healthier global travel community.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Don’t let this one mistake ruin your summer holiday

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Look, you may not be able to control the weather, or whether or not your flight is cancelled, but there is one simple thing travellers can do to *try* and make their summer holiday go as swimmingly as possible.

As Europe’s largest tour operator goes bust just as the holiday season kicks off, it’s perhaps no better time for holidaymakers to protect their hard-earned summer plans in advance.

To take the grunt work out of such an endeavour, the travel insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk have taken a look at travel delays, cancellations and even provider collapses to help London holidaymakers get the upper hand on travel hiccups.

The short of it is, financial and legal protections for travellers differ greatly depending on what has been booked and where the purchase was made – so Quotezone has compiled reminders on the protections offered by Air Travel Organisers’ Licence (ATOL) and other relevant regulations.

Nine airlines filed for bankruptcy last year, as the travel industry still tries to find its feet (or, rather, wings) in the Covid aftermath – one of which was London favourite Flybe.

ATOL is a financial protection scheme managed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in the UK and is designed to protect consumers who’ve purchased package holidays or flights from UK-based travel companies in the event that the company ceases trading, or goes ‘bust’.

However, holidaymakers’ level of protection varies depending on whether they’ve booked a package holiday or made their own arrangements.

Flight delays and cancellations also play a major part in ruining holidays and, especially seeing as most travellers can probably relate, is something London holidaymakers must make sure they have protection for.

Of the London airports, 1,080 flight cancellations were reported in the latest data from the Civil Aviation Authority – the sample was taken during the month of April 2024 – with 434 flights reporting significant delays between 2-3 hours or more. At Heathrow alone, 643 flights were cancelled.

If the flight is cancelled, passengers legally have the right to request a full refund from the airline, or a replacement flight which will allow travellers to get to their final destination.

How to save on travel insurance

Metro Finance has teamed up with Quotezone to help readers save money on their travel insurance.

Quotezone.co.uk compare up to 35 providers and 97% of reviewers recommend them.

Get your quotes here .

For delays of three hours or more, travellers can also request compensation directly from the airline. However, the airline will rarely give out compensation if a delay was caused due to reasons beyond their control – such as adverse weather conditions.

Most standard travel insurance policies cover compensation for cancellation or curtailment if the traveller has to cancel or cut short the holiday for reasons out of their control.

It will also normally cover them for missed or delayed departure, covering any expenses they may face if the flight is postponed or if they miss it through no fault of their own.

CEO and travel insurance expert at Quotezone, Greg Wilson said: ‘As holiday season approaches and holiday itineraries are finalised, we wanted to remind Londoners of their rights in case of travel delays, cancellations or even bankrupt holiday partners.

‘With the current financial struggles in the UK, 15% of holidaymakers are searching for cheaper deals online and booking with sites and tour operators that aren’t as well-known to help find savings.*’

Wilson added: ‘This makes it crucial that travellers do additional research before booking, ensuring they are protected by recognised travelling bodies and have a travel insurance policy in place as soon as they make the booking.

‘Holidaymakers need to make sure they look for the ATOL logo and check the specifics of the travel insurance, for example, if the flights are booked directly with the airline, it’s sensible to add airline failure or end supplier failure insurance, for protection in case they go bust.’

How can London travellers protect themselves before holiday mayhem hits?

Find out if your booking is atol protected.

ATOL protection applies to most air trips abroad that are booked with UK travel companies. If you are covered by ATOL, your travel company should have given you an ATOL certificate when you booked. Under the ATOL scheme, if a firm goes out of business and you can no longer take your trip, your booking will be refunded. If it happens when you are abroad, don’t panic. You will be able to finish your holiday and fly home as you originally planned.

Look at package holidays

A package holiday is when you book more than one part of your holiday through the same travel agent or website – for example, your hotel and plane tickets. Fortunately, package holidays have both financial and legal protection, and the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 require organisers of package holidays to provide protection for your money and to bring you home if necessary. This means that all companies selling package holidays must offer the same level of protection. This protection will prevent you from losing money and will also help you sort out any practical problems should they or the airline you’re flying with go bust.

Consider linked travel arrangements

A linked travel arrangement is when you buy one part of your holiday and then are prompted to buy another part via a click-through within 24 hours. For example, if you buy a flight and then are prompted to purchase car hire through the same website. Linked travel arrangements aren’t covered by ATOL but they do benefit from other insolvency protections. A linked travel arrangement only has financial protection – and this is at a lower level than if you bought a package holiday. The financial protection provides some cover if the company that arranged your linked travel arrangement goes out of business. As there is no legal protection covering the whole linked travel arrangement, any complaints about the provision of the services must be directed to the service providers themselves.

Think about independent travel

The Civil Aviation Regulations 2012 (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing) are overseen by the CAA and require tour operators who sell flight-only arrangements to provide protection for your money and to bring you home if necessary. However, this protection does not apply to flights that are bought directly from an airline. If you book a flight directly with an airline, unfortunately you will not be covered by ATOL. This means that if the airline you booked with goes bust while you’re abroad, you will need to book a return flight with another airline. However, if you’ve scheduled airline failure or end supplier failure insurance added to your travel insurance policy, you should be able to get any additional flight or hotel expenses refunded.

Get travel insurance – but check the fine print

Not all travel insurance policies include insolvency protection either, so it’s crucial to check the specifics of your policy. Insolvency protection ensures that if your travel provider goes bust, your policy will cover things like refunds for paid expenses, repatriation costs, and alternative travel arrangements. Travel insurance comparison can help holidaymakers find real savings, by comparing travel insurance quotes for annual versus single trip policies, there could be savings to be found. Also review worldwide versus travel insurance for Europe to ensure all your destinations booked throughout the year are accounted for on the cheapest possible policy.

Take advantage of credit card bookings

If you have paid for your holiday with a credit card, you may have additional protections under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. This legislation makes your credit card issuer jointly liable if something goes wrong, offering another avenue for refunds.

For other helpful holiday preparation, read European holiday tax increases before jetting off.

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* Quotezone.co.uk’s findings are based on a randomised survey of 1,000 respondents across the UK during June 2024, which represents a margin of error of approximately 5% at a 95% confidence level.

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UK election latest: Starmer embarks on 'reset' tour - as he receives advice from Blair

Sir Keir Starmer is embarking on a "reset" tour of the UK - visiting Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales through the day. We're digesting this and all the election fallout on Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips live on Sky News now.

Sunday 7 July 2024 09:37, UK

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Continuing his conversation with Stephen Murphy , Simon Harris reiterates that the "British-Irish relationship is really strong".

The Taoiseach says the two countries now have a "real opportunity" to "press reset".

He says: "Politics aside... at the end of the day, we're neighbours, we're friends - in many cases we're family as well.

"And there's an opportunity now - a real opportunity - that we must cease, and the next generation will never forgive us for if we don't, to press reset.

"To say, yes, it's been a difficult few years but you know what, we have so much more in common than what divides us. 

"We have so many issues of mutual concern.

"We are two islands, side-by-side.

"Let's work together and let's fulfil the promise of the Good Friday Agreement."

Simon Harris is now asked whether Ireland could be a strong voice for the interests of the UK from within the European Union.

Sir Keir Starmer has made clear the UK will not seek to re-join the union, but has said he will aim to build stronger and closer ties.

"Ireland will always be an ally of Britain having a closer relationship with the European Union," Mr Harris says.

"It is important that Britain and the European Union continue to be good neighbours - and it is absolutely in Ireland's interests that we facilitate that in any way we can around any European table."

Mr Harris adds that the UK and Ireland share a "very similar perspective on many issues".

"I absolutely think, should it be the position of the British government in the time ahead that it wishes to improve relations, or it wishes to have closer relations, in any area where it makes practical sense of course Ireland will be an ally in that conversation."

But will there be any willingness with Brussels to renegotiate?

Mr Harris says there would be a "fair hearing" for proposals to "iron out practical issues in terms of having a relationship that works".

Simon Harris, the Taoiseach of Ireland, has welcomed commitments made by the new British government in relation to the Legacy Act.

Labour has previously pledged to start anew on legacy, with the act - which was the result of a Conservative commitment to protect Army veterans - to be "repealed and replaced".

In short, the act - an attempt to deal with the Troubles - had offered conditional immunity, ended related inquests and banned any future civil actions.

Labour has promised to scrap this "as quickly as possible".

Speaking to our Ireland correspondent Stephen Murphy , Mr Harris says that, when speaking to Sir Keir Starmer this week, he did "indicate the willingness of my government to work with the British government and with the parties in Northern Ireland in relation to legacy".

He says: "I welcome the commitments that the incoming British government has given in relation to replacing the legacy act." 

Asked if he will drop its human rights case, Mr Harris says: "I think we need to take this step by step."

He also recognised there were "clear policy differences and difficulties and challenges over the last number of years" with the Conservative government.

"I had a professional relationship with Rishi Sunak, he was always very cordial to deal with, so this for me was never about personality."

But Mr Harris says he will take Sir Keir "at his word".

"He is a man of integrity, he has won a comprehensive victory in this election," he adds.

"I am very eager to work with him."

The head of polling firm IPSOS, Ben Page, joins Trevor Phillips on the show.

He says that while 33.8% of voters put Labour in power, the party were clearly ahead on every single policy area polled among the majority of the public, bar defence.

"The result, in terms of a large Labour majority, is what most people in this country actually wanted," says Mr Page.

In a head-to-head between Sir Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak, 46% said the Labour leader would be the best prime minister, compared to 21% for Mr Sunak.

"On balance, the system, it has many flaws [but] the reason there aren't massive riots in the streets - unlike in France - is that it is broadly giving people what they were hoping for, which is change, which over seven out of 10 people said they wanted to see."

Labour and the Liberal Democrats have "played a blinder" in the campaign, he says.

Little traction will be gained by smaller parties over challenging the first past the post system, he says.

"We had a referendum a decade ago, we voted against it, this will rapidly disappear."

Nadhim Zahawi tells Trevor Phillips the Tory party needs to appeal both to Reform voters and Liberal Democrat voters, not just the former.

The Lib Dems took his seat and "many, many" others from the Conservatives, says Mr Zahawi.

Focusing on immigration is not enough, says the former chancellor. 

Next, Nadhim Zahawi admits Sir Keir Starmer has "done well" in appointing experts in their field into ministerial positions.

This includes Sir Patrick Vallance - a household name during the COVID pandemic - who was named science minister.

Meanwhile, rehabilitation campaigner and businessman James Timpson was appointed prisons minister - and Richard Hermer, an expert on international law, attorney general.

Mr Zahawi says: "Starmer's done well - there's James Timpson, Patrick Vallance.

"Bringing outside expertise to help deal with these issues.

"How he's going to deal with immigration will be a huge test for him."

All the potential leaders of the Conservative Party have been "silent" today, points out Trevor Phillips.

No senior Conservative MPs were happy to take part in the show this morning, he says.

Former Conservative chancellor Nadhim Zahawi says many will be tired after the election campaign.

But some will be figuring out whether they will run and, if they are planning to do so, putting together a team, he says.

The 1922 Committee will have to be reconstituted and a new chairmen elected.

"I wouldn't read too much into why you couldn't get anyone senior. They have been fighting their seats and they now have to sit back and think about what they do next."

Asked who he would back, Mr Zahawi says whoever leads must "unite the party".

"Rishi suffered badly in the campaign because there were voices from his own party coming out against [him], whether it's the campaign or pre-campaign."

Former chancellor Nadhim Zahawi is next up with Trevor Phillips.

He is asked simply: "Is this an extinction level event for the Tories?"

"It is pretty catastrophic," Mr Zahawi says. "To go from 365 MPs down to 121 is pretty shocking. 

"But I do think we have an opportunity to regroup... I think if you look at the MPs that remain today we have got some serious talent in the Conservative Party that are still in parliament.

"I am hopeful that they will come together because, for too many years, for far too long, we formed a circular firing squad - and that is what the electorate saw.

"And they reacted quite rightly by throwing us out of power."

The business secretary is now asked why the prime minister has looked to some of the veterans from the Blair era, rather than his 411 MPs, to fill some roles.

Jonathan Reynolds says his generation of Labour MPs "can hold our heads high" in returning Labour to power, but "we are very much aware" that bringing expertise to government is a "sign of strength".

Trevor Phillips turns to how the MPs were elected, with the first past the post system delivering seats disproportional to votes.

"I think it's really important to say there are results in the past that are similar to this. I don't think you can say a system is unfair just as one side wins it," says Mr Reynolds.

"When you've got a system, you run your campaign to win under that system. You can't then look at it through a different lens. We have had elections in the past where Labour has had extraordinary majorities in a small number of places - that's not good enough."

Jonathan Reynolds, the business secretary, is asked if he felt the absence of one of his former shadow cabinet colleagues - Jonathan Ashworth - at yesterday's cabinet meeting.

Mr Ashworth, who was the shadow work and pensions secretary, lost his seat in Leicester South on Thursday to independent candidate Shockat Adam.

"I did," Mr Reynolds says.

"I've known Jonathan a long time. He put in a credible service to the campaign. Maybe to his own personal cost in that way. 

"And, of course, to be in a political system where you can win a landslide, get that mandate, but lose very close colleagues... British politics is tough."

Trevor says it is thought this seat - and others in Birmingham - were lost due to ethnic rivalries.

Is this going to be an issue for Labour? 

The minister says his party "take the loss of any support seriously". 

Put to him that the loss of these seats could be due to his party's stance on Gaza, Mr Reynolds says: "I really understand people's frustration. 

"There are... particularly younger people, but not just confined to one community. By the way, this is across the board. 

"They've never seen a real peace process in the Middle East."

He adds: "What I hope we can now do as a government is show real leadership on the world stage to find a real solution to that conflict."

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