cancer exclusion travel insurance

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What to Know Before Buying Travel Insurance for Cancer Patients

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Table of Contents

Can travel insurance cover people with cancer?

Who needs a pre-existing medical condition waiver, how to choose among travel insurance companies, companies that offer travel insurance with cancer coverage, other tips for getting insurance for your trip, travel insurance for cancer patients recapped.

Most plans with pre-existing medical condition coverage require purchase within 20 days of an initial trip deposit.

Generally, non-emergency care and/or expected complications as a result of your diagnosis won’t be covered.

Different companies sell plans with different coverage limits. Read the fine print.

Finding the best travel insurance for your trip can be tricky, even more so if you’re planning a trip and have a pre-existing medical condition like cancer, as some plans don’t cover issues that might arise as a result of this diagnosis (or may limit coverage to specific situations).

Fortunately, you can still enjoy the peace of mind that travel insurance offers, even if you have a medical condition.

Here’s what to know about travel insurance for cancer patients, including what it covers, how it works and which insurance companies have suitable plans.

» Learn more: What to know before buying travel insurance

Travel insurance protects against financial losses and other risks from unexpected events that occur when traveling. Policies cover the expenses and inconveniences incurred from delayed flights, canceled reservations, lost or delayed luggage, injuries and even illness.

That said, not every illness is covered, as not every policy offers protection for those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Within the umbrella of coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, cancer patients are wise to scout out policies that cover cancer-related treatment during a trip. In the off chance that you need unexpected care because of your condition — or perhaps you need to cancel your trip or cut it short due to medical reasons — you want to be able to be reimbursed for all the payments you've made so far.

Most of the time, non-emergency care and/or expected complications that are a result of your diagnosis won’t be covered.

Without coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, companies will not likely reimburse you for emergency expenses, medical care, last-minute flights home or any other trip interruptions/cancellations due to your medical status.

Understanding how this sort of coverage works is important because not every traveler qualifies for a pre-existing medical condition waiver when it comes to obtaining travel insurance with cancer.

Requirements vary from one insurance company to another, so always make sure to read the fine print and details of your particular policy before purchasing.

But in general, you’ll likely need to meet at least one of these conditions:

You’ve had to seek medical care and/or received a diagnosis or treatment within a certain number of days before purchasing your policy.

You’re taking doctor-prescribed medication.

You’ve exhibited symptoms.

As far as the policy itself is concerned, a few more limitations may apply to qualify for the waiver, such as:

Your policy must cover the full purchase cost of your trip.

You bought your policy within a certain number of days of making your first paid booking or reservation (the exact number varies from company to company).

You were OK to travel, medically speaking, when you purchased the policy. 

» Learn more : Can I get travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions?

When it comes time to purchase a travel insurance plan, start by comparing options from multiple companies. If in doubt, reach out to the company’s customer service team for clarification. Each company is different and has different requirements and limitations.

» JUMP to learn more about companies to consider

Once you've generated a quote, peruse individual plans from each company, focusing primarily on the details of pre-existing condition coverage. Also consider other helpful protections like cancellation coverage, trip delay or interruption coverage, lost luggage insurance and more.

When comparing policies, pay attention to coverage amounts to make sure what’s offered is enough to bring you peace of mind.

Make sure to start your search for travel insurance early, ideally within a few days of making your first booking, since pre-existing condition waivers often require early purchase — if you don’t buy a plan within a set amount of time (usually 14-20 days) after your initial trip booking, you may not qualify.

» Learn more: Trip cancellation insurance explained

To compare plans, we searched for coverage for a 45-year-old traveler from New York planning a weeklong trip to Portugal.

Travel Guard by AIG

• Offers last-minute coverage.
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Exclusion Waiver available at all plan levels.
• Plan available for business travelers.
• Cancel For Any reason coverage only available for higher-level plans, and only reimburses up to 50% of the trip cost.
• Trip interruption coverage doesn't apply to trips paid for with points and miles.

NerdWallet analysis found Travel Guard by AIG offers top-notch coverage for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions.

Provider overview:

A pet bundle may be available as an upgrade if you’re traveling with a furry companion.

Cancel For Any Reason coverage is offered as an optional add-on, but only for some plans, and it only covers 50 percent of your trip cost (versus the more typical 75%).

» Learn more : AIG Travel Guard insurance review: What to know

Allianz Travel

• Annual or single-trip policies are available.
• Multiple types of insurance available.
• All plans include access to a 24/7 assistance hotline.
• More expensive than average.
• CFAR upgrades are not available.
• Rental car protection is only available by adding the One Trip Rental Car protector to your plan or by purchasing a standalone rental car plan.

For pre-existing conditions to be covered with Allianz Travel plans, you’ll have to purchase one within 14 days of your first trip-related payment.

Most plans include pre-existing medical conditions automatically.

Emergency medical transportation is a separate benefit from emergency medical, which may be beneficial if costly air or ground transport is required to get you to a hospital.

Plans include coverage to help cover redeposit fees if you booked travel with points or miles and had to cancel travel for a covered reason. 

Emergency medical coverage is low, comparatively speaking, considering the cost of plans.

» Learn more : Allianz Travel insurance review: Is it worth it?

Seven Corners

• Annual, medical-only and backpacker plans are available.
• Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available for the cheapest plan.
• Cheapest plan also features a much less costly Interruption for Any Reason add-on.
• Offers only one annual policy option.

With high coverages for accident and sickness medical expenses in a premium plan, this insurance is a good option for those worried about bills they may rack up if they need to seek medical care abroad. You will need to purchase coverage within 20 days of your first trip booking to qualify for pre-existing condition coverage.

Provider overview :

Offers an annual multi-trip plan that includes coverage for pre-existing conditions after it’s been active for 60 days.

Several other plans offer coverage for pre-existing conditions automatically: Trip Protection Elite, Trip Protection Choice and Trip Protection U.S.A.

Cancel For Any Reason coverage is also available as an add-on with the Trip Protection Elite plan.

More budget-friendly economy plans don’t include pre-existing conditions waivers or CFAR upgrades.

» Learn more : Seven Corners travel insurance review: Is it worth the cost?

Travelex Insurance Services

• Top-tier plan doesn’t break the bank and provides more customization opportunities.
• Offers a plan specifically for domestic travel.
• Sells a post-departure medical coverage plan.
• Fewer customization opportunities on the Basic plan.
• Though perhaps a plus for domestic travelers, keep in mind the Travel America plan only covers domestic trips.

While Travelex Insurance Plans plans that cover pre-existing conditions may be more expensive than some of the options listed here, plans tend to be comprehensive. Plus there are plenty of add-ons available that may help build the perfect protection for you and your trip. You must purchase your policy within 15 days of your first travel booking and payment (three days for US-based travel).

Children accompanying you on your travels are included in the pricing of the Travel Select plan.

You have the option to double your medical coverage with a Medical Expense Coverage upgrade.

You can upgrade your plan to include an adventure sports package.

Not all policies include coverage for pre-existing conditions.

» Learn more : Travelex travel insurance: What to know

Before you start packing, here are some other tips for procuring travel insurance for those with cancer:

Check to see if you already have a credit card that offers trip insurance . While your pre-existing condition may not be covered via your card, you could potentially pair your card's existing coverage with a more basic/economy third-party plan that includes pre-existing conditions coverage.

Even if you don’t have the whole trip booked and paid for, make sure you purchase coverage in the amount of everything you’ve paid for so far within the purchasing window for pre-existing coverage. If you make more reservations later, you’ll have to update your policy coverage amount at that time, usually within a set amount of days. Read your policy info for time limits.

Choose the best policy for you based on not just the policy cost, but also what you need and what is covered.

If you have cancer, travel insurance can seem complicated. Indeed, it’s important to make sure the coverage you select will take care of you should you need it. As long as you understand the requirements of selecting a plan and what it does and doesn’t cover, you can still find a policy that works for you.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

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

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ 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

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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
• Do You Know if You Have an Insured or Self-Insured Employer Health Insurance Plan? You Should

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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.

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
• Free access to Air Doctor Connect , giving you access to over 20,000 doctors in 78 countries. Plus, we’ll waive your excess for outpatient treatment through them!

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
• Blood 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.

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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

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Cancer Travel Insurance

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

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:

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

† 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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What's the Best Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions?

You may think that a pre-existing condition means anything you’re being treated for at the time you purchase your travel insurance. The definition is actually broader than that. Allianz Global Assistance defines a pre-existing medical condition as:

An injury, illness, or medical condition that, within the 120 days prior to and including the purchase date of your policy:

• Caused a person to seek medical examination, diagnosis, care, or treatment by a doctor;
• Presented symptoms; or
• Required a person to take medication prescribed by a doctor (unless the condition or symptoms are controlled by that prescription, and the prescription has not changed).

It’s important to know that the illness, injury, or medical condition does not need to be formally diagnosed in order to be considered a pre-existing medical condition.

Let’s consider a few scenarios:

• Sudden, debilitating pain in an arthritic knee forces you to cancel your planned trekking tour of Iceland. Because you consulted your doctor about knee twinges three months ago, it’s considered a pre-existing condition.
• While sightseeing in Shanghai, you suffer a mild heart attack. Because you were diagnosed with coronary heart disease three weeks before purchasing travel insurance, this is considered a pre-existing condition.
• You were diagnosed with lupus many years ago, but it’s been in remission. You feel pretty good when you book your cruise to Bermuda, except for some fatigue and a rash. Then the Caribbean sun triggers a serious lupus flare, sending you to the hospital. Because you had symptoms when you booked your trip, this is considered a pre-existing condition.

2. Travel insurance requirements for covering pre-existing medical conditions 

If you’re dealing with a pre-existing medical condition, that does not mean you can’t get travel insurance, or that you shouldn’t travel at all. You just have to read the insurance policy documents very carefully to make sure you meet all the requirements. As Conde Nast Traveler puts it , “it’s best not to make assumptions. Returning home in pain is bad enough. Don’t intensify it by unnecessarily paying thousands of dollars you could use on your next trip.”

Certain Allianz Global Assistance plans can include pre-existing medical condition coverage as long as you:

• Your policy was purchased within the time frame specified in your plan (usually 14 days of the date of the first trip payment or deposit.) In other words, don’t dawdle! Buy travel insurance as soon as you book your trip, so you don’t forget.
• Are a U.S. resident.
• Make sure you’re medically able to travel on the day you purchase the plan. Don’t assume you’re cleared to travel just because you feel OK that day. If you’re living with a chronic condition, or if you’ve recently had surgery or cancer treatment, it’s wise to get written approval to travel from your doctor.
• On the policy purchase date, insure the full non-refundable cost of your trip with Allianz Global Assistance — including trip arrangements that will become non-refundable or subject to cancellation penalties between the policy purchase date and the departure date. Make sure you include your airfare, hotel reservations, tour bookings and any other nonrefundable costs when you’re insuring your trip. If you incur additional non-refundable trip expenses after you purchase your policy, you must insure them with us within 14 days of their purchase. If you do not, those expenses will still be subject to the pre-existing medical condition exclusion.

3. What’s excluded from travel insurance coverage for pre-existing conditions

While most pre-existing conditions are covered by Allianz Global Assistance travel insurance, there are a few exceptions. Mental and nervous health disorders and normal pregnancy aren’t covered, for instance. If you want to make sure your particular condition is covered, speak with an insurance specialist before you buy.

Also, check the cap on trip costs. For the OneTrip Prime Plan , for instance, the total cost of your trip must be no more than $50,000 per person.

Why Allianz Global Assistance offers the best travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions 

If you have any kind of chronic health problem, travel insurance can save your vacation — or even your life. The best travel insurance for pre-existing conditions is the OneTrip Prime Plan from Allianz Global Assistance, which includes abundant coverage for covered emergency medical expenses overseas (up to $50,000). You also get emergency medical transportation benefits up to $500,000 to travel to the nearest appropriate medical facility or to return home. This is huge, especially if you suffer from a serious condition that might require advanced treatment. The OneTrip Premier Plan doubles these amounts.

Travel insurance from Allianz Global Assistance also can include trip cancellation and interruption benefits to reimburse you for non-refundable trip payments, in case you have to cancel your travel because of your covered pre-existing medical condition or another covered reason. You also get personalized, one-on-one help in emergencies from our hotline staff. Every day they help travelers who are suffering medical emergencies, lost documents, travel delays and other crises, all around the globe. But, our hotline experts say, the toughest thing they deal with is having to tell a customer who’s seriously ill that their pre-existing medical condition's not covered. That’s why it’s so important to follow the rules and meet the requirements.

Have questions about how to choose the best travel insurance for your covered pre-existing medical condition? Call our travel insurance advisers anytime at 1-866-884-3556. Travel happy!

Related Articles

• Trip Cancellation Insurance: Covered Reasons Explained
• When Does Travel Insurance Cover Existing Medical Conditions?
• Travel Insurance 101: Covered Illnesses

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Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please see your plan for full details. Benefits/Coverage may vary by state, and sublimits may apply.

Insurance benefits underwritten by BCS Insurance Company (OH, Administrative Office: 2 Mid America Plaza, Suite 200, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181), rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Co., under BCS Form No. 52.201 series or 52.401 series, or Jefferson Insurance Company (NY, Administrative Office: 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233), rated “A+” (Superior) by A.M. Best Co., under Jefferson Form No. 101-C series or 101-P series, depending on your state of residence and plan chosen. A+ (Superior) and A (Excellent) are the 2nd and 3rd highest, respectively, of A.M. Best's 13 Financial Strength Ratings. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Allianz Global Assistance and Allianz Travel Insurance are marks of AGA Service Company dba Allianz Global Assistance or its affiliates. Allianz Travel Insurance products are distributed by Allianz Global Assistance, the licensed producer and administrator of these plans and an affiliate of Jefferson Insurance Company. The insured shall not receive any special benefit or advantage due to the affiliation between AGA Service Company and Jefferson Insurance Company. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Any Non-Insurance Assistance services purchased are provided through AGA Service Company. Except as expressly provided under your plan, you are responsible for charges you incur from third parties. Contact AGA Service Company at  800-284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or [email protected] .

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• Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance for Cancer patients

A Cancer diagnosis can be life changing for you and your family. In addition to the health impact during and after treatment, it can continue to present long-term problems whenever you are required to give medical history details. Many travel insurance policies have exclusions or restrictions on Cancer and other major health conditions, leaving you with the unenviable choice of travelling with inadequate insurance or cancelling your travel plans altogether. We understand that after a Cancer diagnosis, the type and duration of treatment, plus long-term aftercare and prognosis can be very varied, which may affect the insurance cover that you require. Whether you have successfully completed all treatment; are on preventative maintenance medication following Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy or Surgery; are currently receiving treatment or are having check-ups on a 'watch & wait' basis, we have a range of policies available and our experienced Sales Consultants can guide you through the medical screening to help you choose the right cover for your needs . Every day, approximately 1,000 people will be diagnosed with Cancer in the UK. With improving treatment, more people are living with Cancer successfully in remission or maintained at a slow-progressing stage. Cancer should not prevent you from travelling overseas, so Worldwide Travel Insurance are here to help you buy cover to give you real peace of mind so you can relax knowing you're insured. Worldwide Travel Insurance offers cover at competitive rates, with low medical endorsement premiums, giving you the cover you need at an affordable cost.

To find out more about insurance options for travellers affected by Cancer conditions, please call our office UK(+44) 01892 833338 or email us .

• Product Information
• Medical Conditions
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Benefits to travellers with, or after, Cancer when buying travel insurance with us:

• We offer a Specialist Screening service over the telephone for customers in the UK with medical conditions including Cancer
• Medical screening is also available for some EU residents - please contact us for information
• For residents of other Countries, we are currently unable to screen existing medical conditions, so please contact us to discuss the policies we can offer
• In addition to our main range of comprehensive policies, we have insurance options with no age restrictions; cover for medical conditions whether long-term or recently diagnosed; cover for higher risk conditions. This enables us to assist you in finding the right cover for your individual needs
• We can cover UK and EU-based travellers with, or following, various Cancer conditions, including Breast Cancer; Prostate Cancer; Bowel Cancer; Malignant Melanoma, and other Skin Cancers; Leukaemia; Lung Cancer; Ovarian Cancer; Testicular Cancer; Bladder Cancer; Liver Cancer; Stomach Cancer.
• Our policies can also insure many associated conditions including Solar Keratosis; Pre-cancerous Cells.
• If you have Metastatic Cancer, or have had a terminal prognosis of more than 6 months, we may be able to help; contact us for information on policy options for higher risk condition
• our Sales Consultants are highly trained to provide a friendly, sympathetic and professional service.

Buy travel insurance from the experts...

• Worldwide Travel Insurance, a specialist in travel insurance and related products, has over 20yrs experience in offering high quality cover at great prices.
• All policies purchased online are emailed immediately - ideal for last-minute bookings.
• Cooling-off Period: You have 14 days following receipt of your documents during which you can obtain a full refund if you have not travelled and no claim has arisen.

Customers with Serious Medical Conditions

If you are resident in the UK, the Money & Pensions Service (MaPs) has developed a directory of specialist Travel Insurance providers to assist UK-based travellers with existing medical conditions to obtain travel insurance that is affordable. If, due to a serious medical condition, we are unable to offer cover and you are having difficulty finding suitable insurance, you can use the MaPs travel insurance Directory to find a Company that may be able to help. Go to www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk or call 0800 138 7777 (Mon to Fri 8am – 6pm).

A wide range of Insurance Policies to suit your individual needs

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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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An Overview of Flying With Cancer

Air travel with cancer.

• Medications and Devices
• Getting Around
• Reducing Blood Clots
• Oxygen Needs

Air Pressure Changes

Infection concerns, cancer fatigue, travel insurance.

Flying on commercial airlines is usually very safe for people with cancer who are stable, reasonably healed from any surgeries, and do not have a very low white blood cell count or platelet level due to chemotherapy . That said, it's important for anyone with cancer to talk to an oncologist before scheduling any air travel to discuss potential concerns about oxygen levels or pressure changes during flight, or the need for preventive measures against blood clots. Here we will look at these concerns, common questions people have about medications or medical devices while flying, and general measures that can help you prepare for seamless travel.

Flying with cancer can sometimes have significant benefits. In some cases, people may need to fly to the cancer center where they will be treated. But pleasure trips are encouraged by many oncologists as a great way to cope with the rigors of treatment and to reconnect with family and/or friends outside of the clinic or hospital setting.

Many people wonder about the best time to travel during treatment, and the answer will be different for everyone.

Air travel should be avoided if at all possible for at least two weeks after surgery for a number of reasons (and much longer in some situations such as after brain surgery). In general, any incisions should be well healed and any drains removed.

With chemotherapy, the best time to fly will depend on the particular chemotherapy regimen you are on, as well as other factors such as side effects you are experiencing and more. With some protocols, the chemotherapy nadir (when blood counts are at their lowest) occurs around 10 days to 14 days after an infusion, and an oncologist may recommend travel either earlier or later for this reason. A low white blood cell count can increase infection risk, a low red blood cell count (anemia) can make you more tired, and a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can increase the risk of bleeding. With high dose chemotherapy, such as with some leukemias, air travel may be discouraged throughout the duration of treatment.

General Information

The Air Carrier Access Act of 1986 prohibits discrimination on domestic flights in the United States on the basis of disability. While there are some "horror stories" that spread through the news regarding transportation security administration (TSA) agents and "pat downs," TSA agents should typically be ready to assist those with disabilities due to cancer with courtesy and respect. TSA recommends calling their helpline 72 hours before travel to discuss the screening process.

• You may call TSA Cares at 1-855-787-2227 for information on what to expect at the security checkpoint.
• You may also request a passenger support specialist. These TSA specialists are trained in assisting people with disabilities of all kinds.

Medications and Medical Devices

Many people with cancer will need to travel with medications or medical devices. In addition to making sure that you have an adequate supply of medications (with at least a few extra days worth in case of delays or changes due to weather), there are several other things you should consider.

Oral Medications

Carry all medications on board in a carry-on rather than checking them with your luggage. This includes any medications you use for side effects such as anti-nausea drugs or pain medications. Keep all medications in their original containers. Though it's recommended that you bring enough medications for your entire trip plus unexpected delays, many insurance companies have a limit on the number of pills you will be prescribed at one time. If this is an issue, talk with the pharmacist responsible for prescribing your medications.

Medications that cannot go through the X-ray machine are allowed, but you will need to talk to the TSA agent and this may require a pat down.

If you have medications in liquid form, containers containing more than 3 ounces are allowed but you will need to remove the medication from your bag and mention it to the TSA agent before going through security.

Medications and Travel Outside the U.S.

Keep in mind that drug approval varies among countries and that your particular medication may not be available where you are traveling.

It's also very important to make sure that your medication is legal in the countries you are visiting.

For example, drugs containing pseudoephedrine (such as Sudafed) are illegal in Japan. Amphetamines such as Adderall are illegal in Japan and Saudi Arabia. Narcotics may be illegal or restricted, for example, codeine is illegal in Greece and Hong Kong. Some countries (such as Costa Rica) require that you have a healthcare provider's note describing the medications and only bring enough for your stay. When traveling overseas, make sure to check out the laws, as exceptions are not made, even for people with cancer.

Traveling With Syringes 

If needed for a medical condition, you may carry syringes and injectable medications on board the plane.  It’s advisable to carry a healthcare provider's letter indicating the necessity of carrying these medications since some checkpoints may require a healthcare provider's recommendation (on letterhead stationery).

Medical Marijuana/CBD Oil

Though marijuana is now legal in many states, it is still illegal under TSA law (and federal law) even with a healthcare provider's note, and could be risky. This is true for CBD oil as well. While the TSA does not search for marijuana, if detected they defer to local law enforcement. People with cancer should not travel with medical marijuana outside of the United States.

Chemotherapy Ports/PIC Lines/Ostomy Ports

If you have a port, ostomy, or other medical device, you will need to tell the TSA agent before going through screening. In some cases, a pat down may be required.  

Head Coverings

Most of the time you will be allowed to wear a wig, scarf, or other head covering as you go through security as these are considered medical items, but may be subject to a pat down. You can request a private screening if you would like.

Breast Prostheses

Breast prostheses do not need to be removed, though you will need to tell the TSA agent before screening and rarely a pat down will be required.

Getting Around in the Airport and Boarding

Most airports provide transportation services beyond the security checkpoint. Check with the airports you will be visiting to see what services are available.

Advance Seating

Airlines usually announce advance seating for people with disabilities along with first class passengers. If you need assistance with boarding, this option may be helpful. That said, if you are able to move around it may be a good idea to instead move around and board towards the end of boarding, especially if you have a long flight. Prolonged sitting raises the risk of developing blood clots.

Reducing the Risk of Blood Clots

Air travel as well as cancer itself raise the risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism) and the risk is higher when the two are combined. Cancer treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy increase the risks further . Thankfully, many of these clots can be prevented by taking a few precautionary measures:

• Get up and walk around often—at least one time per hour
• Exercise your legs while sitting. On overseas flights, it's now common for passengers to be shown a video on leg exercises which may reduce the risk of clots when performed in flight. You can exercise your legs by tightening and then releasing your calf muscles or turning your foot in a circle. You can also exercise your legs by lifting your heel repeatedly with your toes on the floor, then lifting your toes several times with your heels on the floor.
• Choose an aisle seat when possible
• Avoid drinking alcohol as it can lead to dehydration and makes platelets (the factors in the blood that cause clotting) stickier.
• Avoid crossing your legs
• Ask a healthcare provider about the use of compression stockings
• Talk to a healthcare provider about other measures if you are at a high risk of developing blood clots. They may recommend taking aspirin or a one-time injection of low molecular weight heparin.

If you've had blood clots in the past, it's crucial to talk to a healthcare provider about whether you should fly, and if so, what other measures you should take.

Oxygen Needs at Increased Altitudes

Flying results in a statistically significant decrease in oxygen saturation in the blood.

Even though cabins are pressurized on commercial flights, oxygen levels are similar to being at an elevation of 5,000 to 8,000 feet.

Oxygen levels may be lower than this on small planes. For those who are healthy, the body accommodates to this lower oxygen saturation quite well. But for those who have compromised lung function due to respiratory ailments, COPD , lung cancer , or lung metastases from other cancers , this can pose a problem.

If you suffer from a respiratory condition you may require supplemental oxygen for flying even if you do not require oxygen on the ground. Talk to a healthcare provider before flying. They may be able to make recommendations or offer tests to determine if you will require oxygen in flight. While commercial airliners carry oxygen, this is reserved for emergencies.

Estimating Your Need for Oxygen When Flying

For people who have COPD and cancer, or who aren't certain whether oxygen may be required, a healthcare provider may be able to make a prediction based on specific tests. Researchers have developed a pre-flight algorithm  that can be used to predict whether or not you may need in-flight oxygen. Since it's been found that people with respiratory disease tend to underestimate their potential need for oxygen when flying, this is a helpful approach for making the decision more objective.

Traveling With Oxygen

Some airlines—but not all—allow portable oxygen to be carried on board the aircraft. According to TSA, if you are able to disconnect from oxygen it's recommended that you check your oxygen as checked baggage.

While checking your oxygen is the ideal method of transport, if you require oxygen when on the ground it's likely that you will require oxygen to an even a greater degree while flying.

If you plan on using portable oxygen in flight it's important to call the airline ahead of time to understand any restrictions. It's also necessary to check with the manufacturer of your oxygen concentrator to see if it is approved for flying.

Delta airlines does allow approved portable oxygen containers with advance notification (but not devices that contain liquid oxygen). A POC approval form must be received by the airline at least 48 hours prior to flying, and if approved will need to be carried with you when you fly. Several other restrictions also apply. The FAA requires that the battery time is 150% of your cumulative flight times. If you need to rent oxygen, OxygenToGo personnel can help you with this process, but you will need to plan well ahead of your flight.

As airlines differ in their regulations, it is important to check with your airline before flying, leave plenty of time to purchase or rent an approved oxygen device if needed and to receive a healthcare provider’s statement that you require in-flight oxygen.

Just as scuba divers may experience problems due to air pressure under water, changes in air pressure as a result of the increased elevation in flight can potentially cause problems for some people.

It's estimated that gasses in body cavities can expand up to 30% with flying on a commercial airline.  

For this reason, healthcare providers recommend not flying for a period of time after certain procedures. For example, it's advisable not to fly for 10 days after a colonoscopy, for two weeks to four weeks after chest surgery, and up to six weeks after brain surgery.

After surgery in general, a wait time—usually around 2 weeks—is recommended as the pressure created by changes in altitude could result in incisions breaking open.

Talk with a healthcare provider if you have a brain tumor or brain metastases as air travel could create brain swelling. Most people with brain tumors can travel by air safely, though symptoms may worsen. In some cases, oncologists may recommend steroids or anti-seizure drugs prior to flying.

Changes in air pressure can also cause swelling in the hands and feet. People with lymphedema , such as after breast cancer surgery, should talk to their healthcare providers before flying as to recommendations. Overall, wearing loose-fitting clothing and staying well hydrated is important in minimizing discomfort at an increased altitude.

Air travel significantly increases the risk of contracting a respiratory infection ranging from the flu, to SARS, to dengue fever aboard aircraft has been noted.   A 2018 study quantified this risk to a degree, at least for infections spread by respiratory droplets that are propelled short distances.   The relative risk of contracting an infection is roughly 80% for people seated within one row (a row in front or row behind) or within two seats on each side of a passenger who is ill with a cold or flu virus. This risk drops to less than 3% for those further away. The risk can also vary depending on movement up or down the aisle, with the greatest risk conferred by ill flight attendants.

Fortunately, the absolute risk is much lower (about one passenger infected for each ill passenger that boards the plane) and there are some things you can do to avoid exposure. Carrying hand sanitizer is one (of course, less than three ounces) that can be used to wipe down the tray table, seatbelt buckle, and bathroom doors. If you note someone coughing or sneezing, you could also let the flight attendant know that you are a cancer passenger and have him or her ask if anyone is willing to trade seats with you. Wearing a mask is also an option.

Flying During Chemotherapy (Between Chemotherapy Infusions)

If your white blood cell count is low due to chemotherapy  or your cancer itself, talk to a healthcare provider about whether or not you should wear a mask. Also, ask them for recommendations about the right mask since some may offer more protection against germs than others.  Chemotherapy-induced neutropenia a low level of the type of white blood cells called neutrophils that fight infections) can be a challenge when traveling in many ways.

There are many "hidden" risks of infection when you leave home, and it's helpful to learn about ways to prevent infections if possible whether traveling by air or not.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations may be required for travel to certain regions of the world. Live vaccines, such as the MMR, yellow fever vaccine, and oral typhoid can be dangerous for those who are immunocompromised. In contrast, some immunizations may be recommended, such as the injectable flu vaccine. It's important to note that even if immunizations are considered okay, they may be less effective or ineffective for people undergoing treatment for cancer.  

When you think about your upcoming trip you may picture yourself traveling as you did before cancer. Yet  cancer fatigue , whether it is the fatigue the majority of people experience during treatment ​or that annoying fatigue that persists long after treatment is done, may leave you exhausted unless you plan for extra rest during your journey. You may find it helpful to write down the activities you wish to take part in at your destination, and then prioritize them as:

• Something you really want to do
• Something you would like to do if you have time
• Something that is optional

If you list out your planned activities in this way you will be more likely to participate in the activities you most wish to do, and will hopefully feel less guilty when you need to take a day or two and just rest.

Many airlines, as well as companies such as Expedia and Travelocity, offer travel insurance when you purchase your airline tickets. This is often a small price to pay relative to the cost of your ticket, but the coverage can vary. Some cover only the cost of your ticket, and documentation by a healthcare provider of a medical reason for the change or cancellation may be required. Others offer services in addition to reimbursing your ticket cost, such as emergency medical care at your destination. Make sure to read the fine print.

A Word From Verywell

Once you've thought through the physical issues related to flying, you may have concerns about the financial issues. If you are traveling by air for treatment, you may be able to get some assistance. Several organizations provide  free air travel for those with cancer who need to travel for medical treatment.

Remember that flying is only one part of your journey. Take the time to think through lodging, transportation, and other issues ahead of time so you are prepared to enjoy your time away.

Moore DC. Drug-induced neutropenia: a focus on rituximab-induced late-onset neutropenia .  P T . 2016;41(12):765-768.

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Transportation Security Administration. Medical marijuana .

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Edvardsen A, Akerø A, Christensen CC, Ryg M, Skjønsberg OH. Air travel and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a new algorithm for pre-flight evaluation . Thorax . 2012;67(11):964-9. doi:10.1136/thoraxjnl-2012-201855

OxygenToGo. Delta air lines process .

Delta. POC approval and battery approval request .

Bagshaw M, Illig P. The aircraft cabin environment .  Travel Medicine . 2019;429-436. doi:10.1016/B978-0-323-54696-6.00047-1

Perdue C, Noble S. Foreign travel for advanced cancer patients: a guide for healthcare professionals .  Postgrad Med J . 2007;83(981):437-444. doi:10.1136/pgmj.2006.054593

Phillips M, Saria M, Eisenberg A, Kelly DF, Barkhoudarian G. Safety of commercial airflight in patients with brain tumors: a case series . J Neurooncol . 2018;139(3):617-623. doi:10.1007/s11060-018-2905-6

Breastcancer.org. Lymphedema .

Mangili A, Gendreau MA. Transmission of infectious diseases during commercial air travel .  The Lancet . 2005;365(9463):989-996. doi:10.1016/s0140-6736(05)71089-8

Hertzberg VS, Weiss H, Elon L, Si W, Norris SL. Behaviors, movements, and transmission of droplet-mediated respiratory diseases during transcontinental airline flights . Proc Natl Acad Sci USA . 2018;115(14):3623-3627. doi:10.1073/pnas.1711611115

Lustberg MB. Management of neutropenia in cancer patients . Clin Adv Hematol Oncol . 2012;10(12):825-6. 

Ariza-heredia EJ, Chemaly RF. Practical review of immunizations in adult patients with cancer . Hum Vaccin Immunother . 2015;11(11):2606-14. doi:10.1080/21645515.2015.1062189

Josephs L, et al. Managing patients with stable respiratory disease planning air travel: A primary care summary of the British Thoracic Society recommendations . Prim Care Respir J . 2013;22(2):234-8. doi:10.4104/pcrj.2013.00046

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Transportation Security Administration. TSA Travel Tips - traveling with medications .

By Lynne Eldridge, MD  Lynne Eldrige, MD, is a lung cancer physician, patient advocate, and award-winning author of "Avoiding Cancer One Day at a Time."

HelloSafe » Travel Insurance » Medical Travel Insurances » Cancer Patients: Which Travel Insurance?

Cancer: Which Travel Insurance?

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Our articles are written by experts in their fields (finance, trading, insurance etc.) whose signatures you will see at the beginning and at the end of each article. They are also systematically reviewed and corrected before each publication, and updated regularly.

Table of Contents

Do you have (or have you had) cancer and would like to get travel insurance for your coming trip in case you face medical expenses abroad?

Travel insurance that covers cancer treatment can be hard to find or very expensive. But you’ve come to the right place.

In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about cancer travel insurance: is cancer travel insurance compulsory? What specific medical cover should you get if you have or have had cancer? What are the best cancer travel insurance companies and how much will you pay? Let’s dive in!

Why do I need travel insurance if I have (or have had) cancer?

Travel insurance for cancer patients is not compulsory.

However, you should know that your national healthcare cover, your European Health Insurance Card (if you are travelling in Europe), your credit card travel insurance or any other kind of assistance you would have as a country resident or citizen, may not be sufficient to cover any medical expenses you may have abroad.

Some countries may ask for valid proof of travel insurance to deliver visas, whether you have pre-existing medical conditions or not. 

Much more than a nice-to-have, travel insurance is one of the highest value-for-money insurance products, especially for people with cancer.

A recent study from Which has shown that in around 10000 UK travellers in 2018, 64% of them have already had medical treatment while travelling abroad. The average spend of medical care abroad is around £1300. But it can be much more.

As a cancer sufferer, you may especially face expenses such as:

Travelling in Europe, what does my European Health Insurance Card cover?

As a current or former cancer sufferer, always remember that while travelling in Europe, your first ally is your EHIC card. Your EHIC card will cover for any treatment you may need abroad, including any treatment linked to a pre-existing cancer.

Remember that your EHIC will only cover you until 31/12/2020, the time of Brexit. Make sure you have both EHIC and travel insurance before travelling. Many insurers will ask you to get your EHIC if travelling in Europe, and would waive the excess if you have a valid card with you.

If you are going to Australia or New Zealand, the UK also has specific healthcare system cooperation programs. 

For any specific information on the European Health Insurance Card, check out the NHS website .

Can I easily get travel insurance with or after cancer?

If you have been diagnosed with cancer, whether you are in remission or not, you may find it difficult to find cheap cancer travel insurance that will cover you for your trip without major exclusions.

Getting travel insurance after cancer can indeed be very time-consuming and you could end up paying three or four times the price people without a medical history would pay for a standard cover policy.

Unfortunately, insurers will see you as being at higher risk of making a claim such as:

• Cancelling your trip for reasons due to cancer, such as an important medical appointment being postponed
• Needing expensive medical treatment linked to your cancer while travelling abroad
• Needing repatriation to the UK.

We all agree that this is unfair, especially, for example, if you are in a very stable condition. But don’t worry, some insurers – fortunately – have agreed to cover people at higher risk. You could get travel insurance post cancer either through:

• Companies that will provide you with standard cover as they would do for any other tourist, but may invalidate any claim due to your treated cancer (if you are sure about your recovery and only need cover for a few days trip, for example);
• Or specialised travel insurance for cancer sufferers (or other existing medical conditions).

We are here to help you find the best and cheapest travel insurance after cancer surgery depending on your current medical condition, your age, the length and destination of your trip, etc.

What are the best travel insurance policies for cancer patients?

You will find below a list of specialist travel insurance policies for cancer patients – as well as for those with other pre-existing medical conditions – who will provide you with good cover and dedicated assistance.

All the above insurers are specialists in covering pre-existing medical conditions. Unless it is clearly mentioned in the features, they all use the Verisk screening system and apply a change in health disclosure in their policy which will allow them to inflate premiums and change or cancel your travel insurance policy if an unexpected event related to your healthcare occurs before your trip.

Find out more cheap travel insurance for cancer with our 100% anonymous tool.

Do I need to declare cancer for travel insurance?

You are required by law to declare any pre-existing medical condition when purchasing an insurance policy.

A pre-existing medical condition is typically one for which you have been diagnosed and have received treatment before you apply for any travel insurance policy, regardless of whether this is short- or long-term.

Therefore, cancer counts as a pre-existing medical condition. You are therefore required to declare your cancer to your insurer, whether you are in remission or not.

Good to know

Not disclosing your cancer could invalidate your claim as well as your entire travel insurance policy.

How does cancer screening for travel insurance work?

If you have cancer, or any pre-medical condition, you are more likely to be screened before applying for a policy.

On insurers’ websites, you’ll be asked to answer a set of questions administered most of the time by the Verisk medical screening system before getting quote results. Some insurers may have their own set of questions and may attribute their risk rating based on your answers.

Do you have or have you had cancer? Here is the list of questions you will most probably be asked to answer when purchasing travel insurance covering cancer:

The below list of screening questions is not exhaustive and may vary depending on your specific answer to each of the question.

Those questions are the most common ones you may find on insurer's websites. In the case that there is no screening system on an insurer’s website, you will need to disclose any health condition by contacting your insurer directly.

How much is cancer travel insurance?

Here are some indicative quotes for single trip and annual travel insurance for cancer patients:

* Quotes above are only indicative and for cancer with no recent complications.

It is quite difficult to give precise ranges of how much cancer care travel insurance is. Prices are based on a wide range of criteria and will not only depend on your pre-existing medical condition, but also:

• Your age and destination
• If you’re going for a single or annual multi-trip, as mentioned above
• If you’re subscribing to upgrades such as cruise, business or gadget cover
• The length of your stay abroad
• If you’re travelling alone, with your partner, a group or your family
• The financial limits you’d like to get in case of a claim
• The excess amount you’re willing to pay
• What you will be doing abroad (e.g. winter or extreme sports).

What is usually covered by cancer travel insurance?

Insurers covering a pre-existing medical condition such as cancer often provide a high compensation amount for trip cancellation, medical expenses and repatriation.

Here is a typical list of what you should pay attention to while applying for cancer travel insurance cover:

Besides compensation limits, you should also go for a company including specific healthcare upgrades as standard such as:

• Bespoke medical screening before applying for travel insurance : the possibility to easily talk to someone and find the right cover for your needs (especially for terminal illness)
• UK-based 24/7 assistance helpline while you’re abroad : dedicated free-of-charge landline to get healthcare advice and help in finding the right doctor or hospital abroad, reactive assistance, etc.

If you are about to make a medical claim while you are abroad, we advise you to get your insurer to accept it first and pay upfront. In the case you need to pay up front, always keep receipts and submit your claim as soon as possible. 

What is not covered by cancer travel insurance?

That will vary from one insurer to another.

Besides the main exclusions usually found in insurers’ policy booklets (terrorism, strikes, natural disasters, claims related to drug, alcohol, etc.), regarding pre-existing travel insurance, your claim may be invalidated:

• If you are travelling without your doctor’s consent
• If you have been told you have a terminal illness and you have applied for travel insurance without saying so
• If you are waiting for a diagnosis or medical treatment at the time of applying.

Does travel insurance cover terminal cancer?

As said above, most insurers will not cover any terminal illness diagnosed, and therefore won’t cover incurable cancer.

However, we’ve come up with a list of companies still offering cover for people with terminal cancer depending on the length and destination of your trip, the stability of your medical condition and your doctor’s consent:

Most of the time, insurance companies will still ask you a minimum duration between your prognosis and your return travel date. You should also know that no insurer will cover you for your trip against your doctor’s consent.

What if I am diagnosed with cancer after having applied for travel insurance?

When it comes to medical condition travel insurance, insurers often add an ‘ongoing duty of disclosure’.

It basically means that if any important change related to your healthcare occurs after you applied for travel insurance policy, they have the right to either:

• Screen you again;
• Raise your premiums;
• Change your policy contract;
• Cancel your policy.

Most of the time, if your health condition changes, insurers will either:

• Provide you with new travel insurance for your new health condition with an additional fee;
• Provide you the same insurance but the new condition will be excluded;
• Or simply offer no cover, as they consider your condition too risky.

Ask for a pro rata refund or full refund if they cancel or change your policy before you make any claim. 

Can you travel abroad with cancer?

The short answer is yes, of course.

However, here are some tips we would advise you to carefully read:

• Get your doctor’s consent and advice before travelling with past or current cancer.
• Get any vaccinations needed.
• Get the right cancer travel insurance for your trip, covering treatment linked to your disease and any medical care you may need abroad, and carefully read your policy booklet (exclusions, limits and deductible amounts, etc.)
• If you are not in remission, be sure that the trip will not be too much effort and not too tiring for your medical condition.
• Remain prudent and take with you your doctor’s phone numbers and local emergency contact details. If possible, travel with someone.
• Make a list of needed medication and keep them in their original packaging (for customs) and store them safely. Prepare back-up meds.

Top 5 tips to get cheaper travel insurance quotes for cancer victims

If you have or ever had cancer, here are some tips you may like to use to lower your insurance premiums:

• Use our comparison table to find out which companies are the best and the cheapest for cancer patients.
• Take your phone and try to speak to humans! If you have someone on the phone, they are more likely to understand your cancer medical situation and find you the appropriate cover.
• Go for single trip cover rather than annual multi-trip . You’ll be seen as a lower risk traveller as you will only need cover for a defined stay.
• Change your destination and opt for European trip rather than a roadtrip across the USA’s legendary Route 66! You’ll be less likely to make a very high medical care claim, which could see your premium go down.
• Benefit from a joint travel policy discount, insuring both your partner or family and yourself.

Nishadh Mohammed is a seasoned news editor and financial writer, working with HelloSafe since May 2023. Nishadh has developed expertise in financial markets, insurance, and investment products, with a deep understanding of the Canadian financial landscape. He has honed his SEO skills and content marketing strategies while writing for Canadian publishing houses. Armed with a master's in Business Analytics and extensive journalistic experience, Nishadh uniquely combines data proficiency and thorough research to deliver comprehensive and accessible information.

Finding travel insurance for your family when your child has cancer

Getting the right travel insurance when your child has cancer can be tricky. But, with the right advice, you can find a policy that works for your family. Here are some tips on what to look for.

Can you get travel insurance if your child has cancer?

You can get travel insurance if your child has cancer but it might be harder and cost more than usual.

MoneyHelper has a list of companies that offer insurance to people with serious medical conditions like cancer. Medical Travel Compared compares quotes for people with medical conditions.

Always make sure you know what is covered before you take out a policy. If you are unsure, ask the insurer or a broker. You can find regulated brokers through the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) .

Do you need travel insurance if your child has cancer?

You do not have to take out travel insurance. But if you go abroad without it, you could end up paying out a lot of money. Travel insurance can protect you if:

• You have to cancel or cut a trip short
• You have a medical emergency
• Your items are lost, stolen or damaged

This kind of cover is even more vital if your child has cancer.

Healthcare abroad

If your child needs emergency healthcare in some EU countries, you can use a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) . This can make treatment cheaper or even free.

Apply for a GHIC for your child via the NHS website here .

If your child still has an old UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) it is valid until the expiry date. You can then apply for a GHIC.

You should have both a GHIC and travel insurance to help make sure your child can get the care they need abroad.

The UK has agreements with some countries outside of the EU. This means you might be able to get cheaper or free healthcare there. The Government has a list of these countries with details of what you will have to pay for.

Challenges of finding travel insurance if your child has cancer

It can be hard to get travel insurance if your child has cancer. This is because providers think you are more likely to make a claim.

You might need to take some extra steps to make sure you get the right policy for you. You should:

• Check with your child’s care team to make sure they are fit to travel
• Make sure your policy covers pre-existing conditions
• Check if you will need to pay extra if you make a claim related to your child’s cancer

Medical costs in the US are very high. This can make it harder to get travel insurance if you are planning a holiday there.

Do you have to declare cancer for travel insurance?

You should always declare that your child has cancer for travel insurance. You need to do this even if your child has finished treatment. If you do not declare your child’s cancer, the company may not pay any claims you make.

Most companies will insure your child if you have a doctor’s certificate saying they no longer have cancer. Some may want your child to be cancer free for months or even years.

Be honest when taking out any policy to make sure you have the right cover.

Average cost of travel insurance with cancer

How much your travel insurance costs will depend on things like:

• The level of cover you want
• Where you are going
• If your child is still having treatment

Prices should go down the longer your child is cancer free. Prices are likely to be higher if you are going somewhere with very high healthcare costs.  You might want to check out insurance costs before deciding where to go.

Advice for finding the right travel insurance for you

Getting the right cover will take time. Compare providers to make sure you are getting the right policy for your family.

Finding the right provider

It is a good idea to get a range of quotes. You can do this using:

• Insurance brokers
• Comparison websites
• Online searches

Make sure insurance brokers are registered with the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) .

Comparison sites can be useful for starting your search but try to limit yourself to one or two. They all work in pretty much the same way so the results you get are likely to be similar.

You might want to start by making informal enquiries. Some insurance companies ask if you have been refused insurance in the past. If you have only made informal enquiries, it should not affect any new applications.

We have a list of providers that cover children and young people with cancer below.

Providing the right information

What information is needed will depend on your insurance provider. If your child is currently having treatment, they might want to know:

• The kind of cancer your child has
• Any medication they are taking and the dosage
• Dates and types of treatments
• Their symptoms
• If they need medical equipment to travel

If your child has had the all clear, they might want to know:

• When they last had treatment
• If they are receiving any follow-up care

They may also want to ask questions about your travel plans including:

• How long you will be away for
• Who will be travelling with your child

It can be hard answering questions about your child’s cancer. Give yourself plenty of time and take breaks if you need to.

How destination affects costs

Where you want to go on holiday can affect how much your travel insurance costs. It may be cheaper if you are travelling to a country:

• Which accepts the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)
• Where the UK government has a healthcare agreement

If you are visiting a country with high healthcare costs, like the US, your insurance is likely to be higher.

If you are going on a cruise, you will need medical care cover for anywhere the ship could stop. This includes unscheduled stops. Again, this can make insurance more expensive.

Single trip vs year-long policies

There are two main types of travel insurance.

Single trip insurance covers your family for one trip abroad. You need to take out a new policy every time you travel. This can be easier to get if your child has cancer.

Annual, or multi-trip, insurance covers you for lots of trips in the same year. You will need to update your insurer if you already have a policy when your child is diagnosed.

You will need an updated doctor’s certificate every time your child travels on an annual policy.

Common questions to ask when comparing insurance offers

Here are some questions you can ask when comparing travel insurance:

• Is there a cancer exclusion?
• Are cancellations covered?
• Does cancellation cover include children with a terminal diagnosis?
• Is medical equipment covered?
• Is private healthcare covered?
• Will it get you home if you need to cut your trip short?
• Is lost or damaged medication covered?
• Is there an emergency helpline?
• What is the total cover amount?
• How much excess will I need to pay if I make a claim?

How to check policy wording

Check the policy wording to make sure your travel insurance covers everything you need. Cheaper insurers may not cover cancellation if your child becomes ill before you travel. Some exclude private healthcare.

Check to make sure the policy covers pre-existing medical conditions. You may have to pay extra for any claims relating to your child’s cancer.

If your child currently has cancer, check the policy covers emergency medical problems relating to their cancer while you are away.

Even if your child no longer has cancer, make sure the policy covers emergency medical problems related to their previous cancer or treatment.

Tell insurance companies your child’s full medical history to make sure your policy covers what you need.

Can you get travel insurance with terminal cancer?

It is harder to get travel insurance if your child has terminal cancer. But some insurance companies do provide specialist cover. They will need a certificate from your child’s doctor saying they are fit to travel.

They may also want to know things like how long your child is expected to live. It can be upsetting answering these questions. Give yourself breaks between calls. It can help to work with an insurance broker who can find specialist policies for you.

MoneyHelper has a list of firms which will provide insurance for people with a terminal diagnosis.

Does being in remission affect travel insurance?

Travel insurance prices should go down the longer your child is cancer free. Most companies will give you medical cover if you have a doctor’s certificate saying your child no longer has cancer and is fit to travel.

Some companies will want your child to be cancer free for months or even years before insuring you.

Shop around to make sure you get the best cover for your family. You will still need to provide a full medical history even if your child is in remission.

Providers that cover children and young people with cancer

Young Lives vs Cancer cannot recommend specific insurance providers.

Below are some organisations which provide travel insurance for children and young people who have had a cancer diagnosis. They are included based on feedback from parents and carers.

Do not assume a company will insure your child just because they did it for someone else. Each company has its own rules. Always check the wording of any policy.

• Able2Travel (Voyager Insurance Services)
• All Clear Insurance
• Avanti Travel Insurance
• Fish Insurance
• Freedom Travel Insurance
• Free Spirit
• Good to Go Insurance
• Holiday Extras
• Insure & Escape
• Insure and Go
• Insure Cancer (Medi Travel Cover Ltd)
• Insurancewith
• JD Travel Insurance
• Post Office Travel Insurance
• World First

Please note: Inclusion on this list does not represent an endorsement by Young Lives vs Cancer. We do not accept responsibility for services provided by these companies.

We’re here to help – how we can support you

Young Lives vs Cancer is here to support you when your child has cancer.

Cat Macleod shares her tips for safe, happy travel when your child has cancer here . You can also join our Facebook group for parents and carers.

For more advice contact our social care staff using Live Chat. Just click on the pink chat button at the bottom right of this page.

Live Chat is staffed between 10am and 4pm, Monday to Friday. If you message us outside these hours, we’ll get back to you when we’re live again.

Please note

Young Lives vs Cancer has put this list together based on positive feedback from parents, but this is not an endorsement by us nor do we accept any responsibility for the services provided by these companies.

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Related Topics

• Travel and insurance

• Best Overall
• Best for Affordability
• Best for Pre-Existing Conditions

Best for Wellness

• Best for Chronic Conditions
• Best for Senior Dogs
• Best for Customer Service
• Why You Should Trust Us

The Ultimate Guide to Pet Insurance for Dogs

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate pet insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Dogs are like family members for many people. So it's no surprise that pet owners are taking their dog's healthcare more seriously by choosing pet insurance. The number of insured pets grew by over 17% in 2023, according to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA). 

Every pup is different, so they deserve pet insurance that fits their unique needs. Read on to discover the best pet insurance options across different categories.

Best Pet Insurance Companies of 2024 Summary

• Best Overall:  Figo Pet Insurance
• Best for Affordability:  Lemonade Pet Insurance
• Best for Pre-existing Conditions:  AKC Pet Insurance
• Best for Wellness:  Embrace Pet Insurance
• Best for Chronic Conditions:  Trupanion Pet Insurance
• Best Senior Dog Insurance:  Spot Pet Insurance
• Best for Customer Service:  Prudent Pet Insurance

Compare the Best Dog Insurance Providers

While dog insurance is meant to save you money if your pet contracts an illness, the rising cost of pet care means that the cost of pet insurance also rises. As such, the process of buying dog insurance is a balance between the most coverage and the best price.

Here are Business Insider's picks for the best dog insurance providers of 2024.

Best Dog Insurance Overall

Figo pet insurance.

Figo is one of the best dog insurance providers overall. It provides affordable care with various customizable options and is one of the few providers that offers 100% reimbursements. It also offers an option for unlimited coverage, though policyholders cannot have both 100% reimbursement and unlimited coverage in the same plan. Dogs 8 weeks and older are eligible, with no upper age limit, which makes it a good option for senior dogs.

Figo's comprehensive pet insurance plans include coverage for non-routine dental care, alternative treatments, and hereditary conditions. You can also add preventative coverage with wellness care and vet exam fees.

Added benefits of Figo pet insurance plans include a shorter-than-average one-day waiting period for accident coverage, a 24-hour pet telehealth line, and its Pet Cloud app, which makes your dog's vet records much more manageable. Dog owners can also get a 5% discount for enrolling multiple pets and a 15% discount by signing up with a Costco membership .

Read our Figo pet insurance review .

Best Dog Insurance for Affordability

Lemonade pet insurance.

Lemonade is one of the most affordable dog insurance providers, with premiums starting at $12. Additionally, dog owners can access multiple discounts: 10% off for bundling with other Lemonade policies like renters or auto insurance, 5% off for enrolling multiple pets, and 5% off for paying annually instead of monthly.

While it offers a nice array of discounts, Lemonade stands out for its customizability. Lemonade offers annual limits of $5,000, $10,000, $20,000, $50,000, or $100,000. Additionally, while Lemonade offers a relatively basic plan, users can add riders to their plan to beef up coverage, such as vet visit fees, dental illnesses, and behavioral conditions. This level of customization lets dog owners create a policy with the coverages they need while cutting out the benefits they don't want, saving them money. 

It's worth noting that Lemonade is only available in 37 states.

Read our Lemonade pet insurance review .

Best Dog Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions

Akc pet insurance.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) stands out primarily because it's the only insurance provider that currently offers coverage for curable and incurable pre-existing conditions, which begins after a 12-month waiting period. In contrast, most insurers only cover curable pre-existing conditions after your dog has been treated and symptom-free for at least six to 18 months. 

While this is a great policy for pet owners with older dogs with medical histories, pet owners with healthy dogs may find better policies elsewhere. While AKC's accident and illness plan isn't necessarily bad, it can't compare to the benefits and customizability offered by companies like Lemonade or Figo. Its annual limits max out at $10,000, which may not be enough for serious illnesses. 

Read our AKC pet insurance review .

Embrace Pet Insurance

Embrace stands out for offering one of the best wellness plans, which comes in three tiers distinguished by annual limits: $250, $450, and $650. It offers benefits rarely seen with other wellness plans, such as grooming, nutritional supplements and prescription diet food, and gland expression.

The biggest downside to Embrace's wellness is that it only comes as an addition to Embrace's accident and illness policy. While it's a decent dog insurance provider, offering an unlimited coverage option, it's also fairly expensive.

While Embrace has the most comprehensive coverage, we'll also mention Wagmo Pet Insurance as an alternative. While Wagmo's wellness plan isn't as comprehensive as Embrace's, it has one key advantage over Embrace, which is that you can buy Wagmo's wellness plan independent of its insurance policy. 

Read our Embrace pet insurance review .

Best Dog Insurance for Chronic Conditions

Trupanion pet insurance.

Trupanion is a unique pet insurance company in that its deductibles are paid per condition over the policy's lifetime instead of an annual deductible that resets each year. Additionally, all policies come with unlimited coverage and 90% reimbursement. So, let's say you have a Trupanion policy with a $500 deductible, and your dog is diagnosed with cancer. Once you pay that $500 deductible, you will only have to pay 10% of your bills until you decide to end your policy.

This structure is great for chronic conditions, but your bills may add up if your dog contracts a wide variety of illnesses. Additionally, Trupanion is one of the most expensive providers on the market, which can deter many dog owners. However, Trupanion doesn't participate in birthday pricing, in which a company increases premiums annually based on your dog's age.

Additionally, Trupanion has the unique ability to pay vets directly, so you won't have to worry about filing a claim after a vet visit. However, if your vet isn't eligible for direct pay, Trupanion also has a traditional claims process.

It's also worth noting that Trupanion doesn't have a wellness option and does not cover pre-existing conditions, regardless of whether they're curable or not.

Read our Trupanion pet insurance review .

Best Senior Dog Insurance

Spot pet insurance.

Spot pet insurance offers accident and illness coverage with no upper age limit. It also provides broad coverage, including benefits like hereditary/congential condition coverage, end-of-life coverage, prescription food, stem cell therapy, and alternative treatments. 

Spot also includes two tiers of wellness and will cover curable pre-existing conditions after your dog is treatment- and symptom-free for 180 days. Additionally, it has relatively low waiting periods, with a 14-day waiting period for ligament and knee issues, while most pet insurance companies have six-month waiting periods.

Read our Spot pet insurance review .

Best Dog Insurance for Customer Service

Prudent pet insurance.

Prudent's policies aren't necessarily eye-catching. While it offers an option for unlimited coverage and has some extra benefits, like lost pet advertising coverage and mortality benefits, Prudent's terms don't stand out in any spectacular fashion. 

However, Prudent shines in its customer service with the highest rating on Trustpilot among all pet insurance companies, receiving an average rating of 4.8 out of five stars. Customers reported that even when their claims were denied, representatives still offered alternative options for customers.

Read our Prudent pet insurance review .

Types of Dog Insurance Available 

The standard dog insurance policies include accident-only, accident and illness, and wellness plans. Here's an overview of what they cover.

Accident-Only Plans

Accident-only plans cover unexpected medical bills due to an accident, like a broken bone or foreign object ingestion. It's typically the cheapest plan pet insurers offer because it doesn't cover illnesses. 

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive policies include coverage for accidents and illnesses. These illnesses include chronic, hereditary, or neurological conditions, among others. These plans are often more expensive than accident-only plans because they provide broader coverage.

Wellness and Preventive Care

Wellness plans pay for routine and preventive care costs, like vaccinations and sterilization. It's not an insurance policy. Instead, it operates on a subscription-based model. You pay a monthly price in return for a fixed amount of coverage per year to help manage the expected cost of ongoing, routine expenses. Most providers allow you to add wellness coverage to your insurance policy at an additional premium.

Factors Affecting Dog Insurance Costs

Pet insurance costs vary based on you and your dog's situation. The following are a few key factors that influence your overall cost. 

Some breeds are more likely to develop illnesses than others. For example, larger breeds tend to reach seniority faster than smaller ones, according to the AKC. Since older dogs face an increased risk of developing health conditions, insurers will charge higher premiums for larger dogs to offset the risk.

Older dogs are more likely to need medical care than younger ones. As a result, insurance companies usually charge higher premiums for adult and senior dogs than for puppies. 

As a side note, getting insurance for your pup while they're young is generally a good idea. This ensures your pup is eligible for coverage before developing a health issue, as most won't cover pre-existing conditions.

Dog owners in ZIP codes with increased vet care costs will see higher insurance premiums on their policies. For example, you may see higher insurance premiums in an urban area with expensive dog health care than in a rural region with lower living costs.  

Choosing the Right Dog Insurance Provider

Pet insurance companies consider a pre-existing health condition if it shows up before your policy begins, even if a previous insurer covered it. That's why choosing the right insurance company for your pup from the start is important. 

Step 1: Assess your Coverage Needs 

The standard pet insurance policy offers accident and illness coverage, but not every company insures all treatments and services. For example, some policies cover hereditary and congenital conditions, and some don't. Others do so at an extra premium. Your veterinarian can inform you about common health issues for your dog's breed, helping you choose the right coverages.

You'll also want to identify the amount of coverage you need. If you don't have significant savings for vet care, you might want to opt for higher deductibles and reimbursement rates. If your pup develops a chronic illness, you might want higher coverage limits for their increased medical needs. 

Be aware that more insurance usually means higher premiums. 

Step 2: Find Dog Insurance Providers

The next step is to choose pet insurance providers offering coverage based on your pet's needs. You can ask your friends and family for recommendations or read online reviews. Your vet should also be able to suggest insurers that cover your pet's health issues.

Note that companies enforce exclusions and limitations on coverage for pre-existing conditions, certain breeds, and ages. Policies also have separate waiting periods for accidents, illnesses, and orthopedic conditions before coverage kicks in. Before you buy insurance, be sure you understand how each company handles exclusions and limitations and how that may affect your coverage. 

Compare Prices 

After choosing several pet insurance companies that check all your coverage-related boxes, you'll want to compare quotes from each. You can gather quotes manually using the provider's quote comparison tool on their website or by calling them. Alternatively, quote comparison tools like Pawlicy Advisor or PetInsuranceQuotes can generate quotes from multiple pet insurance providers in minutes, streamlining the process.

The best dog insurance company provides the coverage you need at the most affordable price. 

Alternatives to Traditional Dog Insurance

In some cases, pet insurance may not be economical or practical. Fortunately, pet owners have alternative options. 

Discount Plans 

Discount plans provide discounted rates on medical care, including emergency and routine services. A leading provider for this alternative program is Pet Assure. 

Unlike pet insurance, discount plans typically don't place limitations on pre-existing conditions, eligible ages, eligible breeds, and coverage amounts. Additionally, there are no waiting periods or deductibles to meet before coverage kicks in. 

However, discounted rates only apply to select services at participating vet providers. So, your options may be limited depending on availability in your area.

Savings Account for Veterinary Care

Starting a savings account can help you save up for future medical care for your pup. This can help you avoid costly pet insurance premiums, which may be true for older dogs or certain breeds. A savings account is also a viable option if your dog has multiple pre-existing conditions, as most pet insurance policies only cover health issues that arise after your policy begins.

Consider building your vet care emergency fund in an account designed to preserve your principal amount while generating some interest. Some examples include a high-yield savings account, money market account, or certificate of deposit (CD). 

However, it's important to note that accidents or illnesses can develop unexpectedly. The tradeoff for building a savings fund for future vet expenses is that it may take time to accumulate sufficient funds. While pet insurance typically has a waiting period before coverage begins, this period usually lasts several days to weeks, offering faster financial protection.

Best Dog Insurance FAQ

The best dog insurance is Figo for its affordability and comprehensive coverage. However, the right pet insurer depends on your financial situation and coverage needs.

How much you should spend on pet insurance depends on your dog's breed, age, and location. An effective way to get the best price on the coverage you need is by comparing quotes from multiple pet insurance companies.

Getting pet insurance for your dog is often worth it, as unexpected vet care can be costly. However, if you have an older dog or one with multiple pre-existing conditions, pet insurance might become expensive or exclude coverage for your dog's health issues altogether. In such cases, saving up for medical expenses might be more practical.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Rated the Best Dog Insurance Companies

The Personal Finance Insider Team is committed to providing readers with the most accurate, updated, and relevant information. That's why we compared 11 of the top pet insurance providers in the industry based on the following factors: 

• Affordability: To determine the cheapest quotes, we used the profile of a 10-week-old (8-year-old for older dogs) Labrador Retriever in Chicago, Illinois.
• Chronic condition coverage: To choose the best insurer for chronic conditions, we compared non-standard coverage offerings for chronic conditions, which include exam fees, alternative therapy, behavioral therapy, prescription medication, end-of-life expenses, and physical therapy. We also looked at maximum lifetime limits. 
• Pre-existing condition coverage: The best insurer for this category provides the most extensive coverage of pre-existing conditions and the shortest lookback period.  
• Wellness plans: The best pet wellness plan provider offers unique coverage options compared to its competitors. 
• Customer service: We took the average of Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot ratings to determine which companies had the highest score for their customer service. 

You can learn more about how Business Insider rates pet insurance here .

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