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A Guide to Travel Insurance for Cancer Patients

When you have cancer, what can travel insurance cover?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more: How Travel Insurance Covers Family Members

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

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

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

Related Articles

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

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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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Cancer Travel Insurance

POLICIES TAILORED TO YOU, FOUNDED FROM PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

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

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

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

xRated 4.8/5 on Trustpilot

Based on over 5,900 customer reviews

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

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

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

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

Policy Benefits

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

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

Types of Cancer Covered

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Choose Insurancewith?

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

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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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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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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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Cancer Travel Insurance

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

• Breast cancer
• Skin cancer
• Prostate cancer

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

Specialist Travel Insurance for people with cancer

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

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

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

What cover does AllClear’s Cancer Travel Insurance provide?

What’s covered?

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

What’s not covered?

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

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

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

SWIPE TO COMPARE POLICIES

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

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

Types of cancer covered.

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

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

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

Stages of cancer covered

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

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

How to get Travel Insurance when you have cancer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Find the best Travel Insurance for your trip

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

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

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

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

Here’s how it works.

1. Get a quote online or by phone

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

  Get your quote

2. Complete our simple medical screening process

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

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

3. Get your quote

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

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

Letitia Smith – Travel Insurance expert

What our customers say

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

Mrs Anne Bedford

Date of experience: 15 January 2024

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

What our Customers Say

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

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

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

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

Do you need to declare previous cancer for Travel Insurance?

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

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

Does skin cancer affect Travel Insurance?

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

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

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

What if you’re in remission from cancer?

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

What if your cancer is undiagnosed?

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

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

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

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

Get the most out of your trips with our helpful guides

Where are you visiting?

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

What activities do you have planned?

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

• United Kingdom
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Golf Travel Insurance

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

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

† 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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Finding travel insurance when you're living with cancer

A diagnosis of cancer can often make you reassess your priorities in life . For example, you may have always wanted to travel the world. Why not now? A holiday can often give you the time and space to come to terms with a cancer diagnosis. A much-needed vacation can help you recuperate from any cancer treatment. You might even decide to go on holiday to mark the end of a course of treatment.

Whatever your reason for travelling abroad after a cancer diagnosis, it’s important to consider getting travel insurance. It can cover your luggage and personal belongings, cancellation, and curtailment. Moreover, it can protect against hefty medical expenses should you need treatment abroad or if you need to be flown home.

But finding the right travel insurance can be challenging if you have been diagnosed with cancer or have recently recovered. Learn more about the ins and outs of obtaining travel insurance with our brief guide.

How do I get travel insurance?

First, it is important to check with your doctor or another healthcare professional that you are fit to travel. Even if you are fit to travel, this does not guarantee that you can get insurance to cover cancer.

This is because insurance companies think you’re more likely to make  a claim than someone with no pre-existing medical condition.

There are usually two options available to you:

• Some mainstream insurers will agree to insure your trip but will not cover any cancer-related claims.
• Some specialist firms insure people with pre-existing medical conditions, including cancer. However, because of the increased risk of a claim, be prepared to pay a higher premium.

You will also be asked about your cancer diagnosis, the stage and severity of your illness, and the prognosis. The insurer will usually request a letter from your doctor confirming that you are fit to travel. The premiums differ depending on the extent of the cancer, and length of time after finishing treatment, and how long you have been cancer free.

“Great news about Insurancewith," said Susie Q in our recommended travel insurance group . "I have recently been recommended this company as it was started by a woman with breast cancer. I feel so much more positive about booking a holiday abroad."

Do travel insurance costs vary depending on where I travel?

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

If you are heading to the United States, your travel insurance might be much more expensive than if you're visiting Australia, for example. This is because of the high cost of medical bills in the US. In addition, you may not get travel insurance for the US if your cancer is incurable. Choosing the travel insurance policy that will give you the best comprehensive coverage may be preferable in some situations. It may be helpful to talk to your doctor about what’s important to consider in your situation.

What if I am travelling to a country within the European Union?

It can sometimes be easier to get travel insurance if you travel within the European Union. If you become ill in some EU countries, you can use a  Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)  to get emergency healthcare. The treatment may be free, or you may have to pay. 

It may help to know that 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.

I have a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). Do I still need travel insurance?

It's important to remember that GHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance.

In contrast to travel insurance for people living with cancer, a GHIC won't pay for medical costs if you have to fly home for any treatment. So, it is important to have both a GHIC and travel insurance that makes sure you can get the emergency health treatment you need abroad.  

What if I have recovered from cancer?

If you have recovered from cancer, finding the right policy can still be difficult, and you may need specialised coverage.

The policies can vary. For example, some might insure you if you've been cancer free after a few months, while others might not offer cover for several years. The price of the insurance does tend to reduce the longer you are cancer free.

Always be open and honest about your health and medical history. If you don’t disclose any relevant details, your insurer can refuse to pay a claim.

How do I find a travel insurance policy?

Popular comparison websites can make life easier by comparing prices and policies from a range of leading insurers.

Remember to check a policy carefully. Make sure it covers things like getting home if you become unwell while abroad. Also, check the cost of any excess charges.

If you are thinking about going on holiday, you may find Macmillan’s information on travelling abroad  can help you to get the most from your trip.

Please share with us your experiences of obtaining travel insurance, whether good or bad. You can also visit the  travel insurance forum   to start a new discussion and find out where others have received the best travel insurance in the past.

For example, Mmum recently found affordable cover for a trip to Europe:

“I had a reasonable quote for Europe £330 from www [dot] insureancewith [dot] com, as have many others on here. If your cancer is pretty standard, under control, and you're not waiting any appointments for subsequent investigations, (normal treatment, check-ins, and scans excepted) these guys are the ones to talk to and you can do it all online.”

You can also see our website for more details on Cancer and buying travel insurance .

• Amerly</a> and <span class="who-likes">1 other</span> like this" data-format="{count}" data-configuration="Format=%7Bcount%7D&IncludeTip=true" >

I can fully recommend Insurancewith, daughter has used them for many years since living with a blood cancer for years, plus since she (eventually) got through a donor transplant. She still travels widely for work and pleasure in spite of battling with a very low immune system, they once had to cancel a booked holiday, she got refunded swiftly, partner took ages to claim with a different company. So not only are the premiums very competitive, they settle claims well too.  hugs xxx

• Felicita</a> likes this" data-format="{count}" data-configuration="Format=%7Bcount%7D&IncludeTip=true" >

Try Saga travel they have covered my husband who has advanced Prostate Cancer with widespread bone metastases 

I had problems getting affordable cover until I found  Holiday Safe Travel Insurance  -  https://www.holidaysafe.co.uk

Have you tried Insure Cancer? https://insurecancer.com,  they generally provide cover for people having treatment +/or they have recent changes. They also advised me to use  moneyhelper.org.uk  for a list of companies that could provide cover. Definitely give the companies a call instead of doing it online. I'm a few years down the line with no changes to my cancer, i took an annual policy with puffininsurance.com 

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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 .

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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).

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My cancer has gone, so why is it so hard to get travel insurance?

A fter treatment for cancer, the first thing many people want – indeed, need – is a holiday. Given that 40 per cent of us are now expected to get cancer at some time in our lives and more than 1,000 people a day receive a new diagnosis, there are a lot of people with cancer in need of a break. 

And as sensible individuals, they – we – also need travel insurance . Ah, and there’s the rub. 

As a travel writer, I have long had annual travel cover with one of the big insurers, Direct Line. I’ve been perfectly happy with them. Following a diagnosis of cancer , however, it refused to cover me. 

The fact that the cancer was deemed cleared apparently didn’t make a difference. The fact that I have insured with them on and off for a couple of decades didn’t either. They would cover losing my luggage or breaking my leg, but not my “ pre-existing medical conditions [PEMCs]” – and that’s pre-existing as in before booking the trip, not before taking out insurance with them. And they are not alone. 

I tried a few other companies. None would give me annual cover. What about individual trips? A week in the Caribbean: more than £500. A week in Europe: north of £100. And that’s with significant excesses.

Shopping around is not fun

Given time, I might have been able to find cheaper options, but shopping around isn’t much fun in this context. Each time you want a quote you are obliged to go through the details of your recent cancer – which is probably what you want the holiday to get away from. 

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) knows there is a problem with travel insurance and PEMCs . The regulator introduced new rules in April 2021 requiring all insurers who refuse or limit cover, or raise premiums above a certain level due to a person’s PEMC, to signpost them to a suitable directory of specialist insurers. 

The FCA approves two such online lists: one from government-backed MoneyHelper , the other from the British Insurance Brokers’ Association . Direct Line did refer me to the specialist directory – but many people do not receive this meant-to-be-mandatory advice (something the regulator acknowledged). 

In its latest annual Financial Lives report, the FCA admitted that in the year to May 2022, 1.9 million adults looked for travel insurance to cover them for a serious PEMC and nearly a quarter – 23 per cent, 437,000 people – did not find one. 

A further 10 per cent were offered cover but did not buy it, presumably because of the cost, which the report acknowledged can be “very high”. In some cases, it is not far off paying for the holiday all over again.    

A Which? survey published this summer came up with similar figures: 36 per cent of respondents with, or with a history of, a medical condition, had had difficulty with travel insurance – either refusal, high prices or problems claiming. 

Which? also noted that travel insurance has a relatively poor record on paying out (75 per cent versus 99 per cent for car insurance) and the second most common reason for rejecting a claim (after general policy exclusions) was pre-existing medical conditions.  

What exactly is the definition of a PEMC? The FCA does not have one. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) does and it’s something of a catch-all: “Any health condition you have now or had in the past.” Really? Should we all be declaring the fluey bug we had one winter and a broken toe in our teens?   

Insurers are, of course, entitled to assess risk and charge accordingly, but the risk assessment of PEMCs does not always reflect an individual’s actual risk. 

Clearing up the confusion – almost

The FCA seems to be aware of this too, reminding insurers in 2021 that they are expected to “assess the risk from medical conditions and calculate medical condition premiums using reliable information that is relevant to assessing this risk [to] help make sure that consumers are quoted a fair premium which properly covers their circumstances”.

If I had had a stroke or a heart attack, I would understand an insurer seeing me as a higher-risk traveller. Any repetition of those would be an immediate emergency – with all the attendant costs abroad. 

Successfully treated cancer is very different, with any risk a relatively slow-burn one. Even urgent cancer referrals take a fortnight. If I found another lump in my breast while on a one- or two-week holiday (which is unlikely anyway given that I am screened twice a year), would I be heading to A&E on a Caribbean island? Or knocking on an Italian doctor’s door? Of course not. I’d be contacting my medical team in the UK to make an urgent appointment for when I got home.  

I even have my consultants’ word – in writing – for my fitness to travel. And the one who has been treating me most recently helpfully added: “Her recent treatment does not make her more likely than any other person to have health problems when she is abroad.” 

But in the tick-box world of online forms (and the forms call handlers fill out if you phone the company), there does not seem to be a place for such assurances or assessment of individual risk.  

If I am not at increased risk, you might ask, why not stop worrying and travel without insurance cover for my so-called PEMCs? This is, in fact, what a helpful supervisor at one of the specialist insurers suggested when I baulked at the price of full cover. Many people are doing exactly that. But if they do then have to claim, it can get difficult. 

I was warned by a cancer specialist nurse: “They can get you. If you have something like a blood clot, they will say it is because of the cancer, even if it isn’t. It’s hard to prove the cause.” A relative of hers with a PEMC had just paid more than £1,000 for travel insurance. 

The FCA is currently reviewing the functioning (or not) of its 2021 rule change and intends to publish its results towards the end of the year. In the meantime, I shall be using specialist insurers (who do tend to offer better value than the big brands for PEMCs) when I can afford to and going without full cover when I cannot. 

In such cases, I will be relying, should I have to claim for anything health-related, on the testament of my consultants and the hoped-for fairness of my insurer. 

Were you refused travel insurance even after you were cleared of cancer? Share your experiences in the comments below

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The Guide to Single Trip Travel Insurance

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Table of Contents

How single trip travel insurance works

How to choose between travel insurance companies, best plans for single trip travel insurance, other tips for travel insurance for a single trip, travel cards that come with complimentary travel insurance, single travel insurance for a trip recapped.

There are many types of travel insurance, including plans that’ll reimburse you for emergency medical expenses or unexpected travel delays. Along with coverage types, there are also different durations of travel insurance.

Single trip travel insurance will cover you during one vacation, while multitrip or annual travel insurance can last for multiple outings. Let’s take a look at single trip travel insurance, what kind of coverage you can expect and how to choose a plan that works for you.

Purchasing a travel insurance plan is fairly simple, as is making a claim. It generally goes like this:

You gather a few quotes from travel insurance companies.

You pick a plan that suits your needs and customize it to your liking.

You purchase your plan and include a date for it to start.

You go on your trip.

If something happens (such as a flight delay), keep the proof.

You make a claim with your travel insurance company.

The travel insurance company reimburses you. 

There are a few variations in how this can work (for instance, some travel insurance plans can pay a medical provider directly), but for the most part, this is how the process will go. This is the case whether you have one-trip travel insurance or multitrip travel insurance.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

There are several travel insurance companies out there, which can make choosing a plan difficult.

NerdWallet analysis found that some travel insurance providers rise above the rest in terms of breadth and depth of coverage, cost, customizability, and overall customer satisfaction. Jump to see our findings on the bets plans for single trip travel insurance.

However, before choosing a company and purchasing a plan, consider these questions:

How much am I willing to pay?

Do I want trip protection, emergency medical coverage or both?

Do I already have coverage somewhere?

How much customizability does my plan need?

Do I need coverage for preexisting conditions?

Will I be doing any sort of adventure activities?

Once you’ve answered these questions, do your due diligence and get quotes from multiple sources. Different providers will offer differing levels of coverage at varying prices, so it’s in your best interest to generate as many quotes as possible and read the fine print.

To make it simple, travel insurance aggregators such as Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner) will provide you with multiple quotes at a time.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

We considered a wide variety of factors when it comes to selecting the best insurance for your trip. These factors include cost, customizability, coverage maximums, whether preexisting conditions are included and the type of coverage the policy offers.

World Nomads

World Nomads is great for active travelers because of its standard coverage of adventure activities. With just two plans from which to choose, it’s also simple to decide which one you’d like.

Covers 200-plus activities as standard. 

Simple plan options.

Emergency medical coverage included.

Only two choices for policies.

Riskier activities are covered only by the more expensive Explorer plan. 

Fixed-rate reimbursement for trip protection.

» Learn more: Read our full review of World Nomads

With eight plans on offer, Tin Leg has a policy for every type of traveler. Along with standard trip protections, Tin Leg also offers Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) add-ons.

Plenty of plans from which to choose. 

Preexisting conditions included in most plans. 

Primary and secondary medical coverage options. 

Cheapest plan doesn’t cover preexisting medical conditions.

Rental car coverage add-on available only on Luxury plan. 

» Learn more: Is Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance worth it?

Seven Corners

Seven Corners is an excellent option for those who really want to customize their plans. Whether you’re looking for medical-only insurance or a more comprehensive policy, Seven Corners has options available.

Preexisting condition coverage available.

Medical-only plans on offer.

Covers missed tours and cruise connections. 

Inexpensive plan offers secondary medical insurance.

Event ticket registration coverage only for expensive plan. 

» Learn more: Is Seven Corners coverage worth the cost?

Our last company on the list is unique in that it covers those who use travel rewards, like purchasing flights or hotels with points and miles . This is fairly uncommon among travel insurance providers and can be really helpful when things go awry during award travel.

Plan options include accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) travel life insurance. 

Covers up to $300 in frequent traveler reward costs. 

Worldwide travel assistance included on every policy.

Cancel For Any Reason insurance available only on most expensive plan. 

Just $35,000 in emergency medical for basic plan (low compared to similar policies at other companies).

» Learn more: Our full TravelSafe review

If you’re interested in getting travel insurance, do yourself a favor and consider these tips before making any purchases:

Consult your medical insurance provider to see whether it offers coverage out of country .

Consider an annual plan to save money if you make multiple trips per year.

Check your credit card for complimentary travel insurance . Many offer this benefit, and if its limits are satisfactory, you can book your travels with it and avoid buying a separate policy out-of-pocket altogether. More on this in the next section.

If you're looking to get coverage for a one-off trip, among your best options is to simply pay for your travel with a card that includes travel insurance as a benefit.

Most travel cards will include coverage for things like trip interruption , trip delays and lost luggage .

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 12 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per trip for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

Terms apply.

If you’re in the market for single trip travel insurance, there are plenty of options available to you. Before purchasing a plan, grab quotes from multiple companies because the types of coverage and costs are going to vary.

Beyond this, be sure to check whether your credit card offers complimentary travel insurance and reach out to your medical insurance provider to see what type of coverage it offers overseas.

American Express insurance disclosures

Insurance Benefit: Trip Delay Insurance

Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.

Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance

The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

Insurance Benefit: Baggage Insurance Plan

Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on Baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip.

Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

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: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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

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

Top Travel Insurances For Russia You Should Know in 2024

Byron Mühlberg

Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

The world's largest country, Russia is known for its history and cultural heritage, with landmarks such as the Red Square, St. Petersburg, and the Hermitage Museum. Although travelling to Russia can be an accessible holiday destination for many people, and although healthcare costs in the country aren't outrageously expensive, it's still a very good idea to arrive there with travel insurance anway, as you'll want the highest-quality healthcare you can find.

Luckily, online global insurances (known as 'insurtechs') specialize in cost-savvy travel insurance to Russia and other countries worldwide. Our list below explores the four services we believe provide the best deals for young travellers, adventurers, everyday holidaymakers looking for comprehensive but affordable coverage, and longer-term expats.

Russia Insurance Profile

Here are a few of the many factors influencing the scope and cost of travel insurances for Russia:

Best Travel Insurances for Russia

• 01. Do I need travel insurance for Russia? scroll down
• 02. Best medical coverage: VisitorsCoverage scroll down
• 03. Best trip insurance: Insured Nomads scroll down
• 04. Best mix for youth and digitial nomads: SafetyWing scroll down
• 05. FAQ about travel insurance to Russia scroll down

Heading to Russia soon? Don't forget to check the following list before you travel:

• 💳 Eager to dodge high FX fees? See our picks for the best travel cards in 2024.
• 🛂 Need a visa? Let iVisa take care of it for you.
• ✈ Looking for flights? Compare on Skyscanner !
• 💬 Want to learn the local language? Babbel and italki are two excellent apps to think about.
• 💻 Want a VPN? ExpressVPN is the market leader for anonymous and secure browsing.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory in Russia?

No, there's currently no legal requirement to take out travel insurance for travel to or through Russia.

However, regardless of whether or not it's legally required, it's always a good idea to take our health insurance before you travel — whether to Russia or anywhere else. For what's usually an affordable cost , taking out travel insurance will mitigate most or all of the risk of financial damage if you run into any unexpected troubles during your trip abroad. Take a look at the top five reasons to get travel insurance to learn more.

With that said, here are the top three travel insurances for Russia:

VisitorsCoverage: Best Medical Coverage

Among the internet's best-known insurance platforms,  VisitorsCoverage  is a pioneering Silicon Valley insurtech company that offers comprehensive medical coverage for travellers going abroad to Russia, no matter whether you're planning to ice skate in Gorky Park in the winter or sunbathe in Sochi in the summer.

VisitorsCoverage lets you choose between various plans tailored to meet the specific needs of your trip to Russia, including coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and travel disruptions. With its easy online purchase process and 24/7 live chat support, VisitorsCoverage is a reliable and convenient option if you want good value and peace of mind while travelling abroad.

• Coverage 9.0
• Quality of Service 9.0
• Pricing 7.6
• Credibility 9.5

VisitorsCoverage offers a large variety of policies, and depending on your needs and preferences, you'll need to compare and explore their full catalogue of plans for yourself. However, we've chosen a few highlights for their travel insurance for Russia:

• Policy Names: Varies
• Medical Coverage: Very good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, mental health-related conditions, and many others.
• Trip Coverage: Excellent - but only available for US residents.
• Customer Support: FAQ, live chat and phone support
• Pricing Range: USD 25 to USD 150 /traveller /month
• Insurance Underwriter: Lloyd's, Petersen, and others
• Best For: Value for money and overall medical coverage

Insured Nomads: Best Trip Coverage

Insured Nomads is another very good travel insurance option for Russia, especially if you're adventurous or frequently on the go and are looking for solid trip insurance with some coverage for medical incidents too. With Insured Nomads, you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs and enjoy a wide range of benefits, including 24/7 assistance, coverage for risky activities and adventure sports, and the ability to add or remove coverage as needed. In addition, Insured Nomads has a reputation for providing fast and efficient claims service, making it an excellent choice if you want peace of mind while exploring the world.

• Coverage 7.8
• Quality of Service 8.5
• Pricing 7.4
• Credibility 8.8

Insured Nomads offers three travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences. We go through them below:

• Policy Names: World Explorer, World Explorer Multi, World Explorer Guardian
• Medical Coverage: Good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip Coverage: Good. Includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, lost or stolen luggage (with limits), adventure and sports activities, and many others.
• Customer Support: FAQ, live chat, phone support
• Pricing Range: USD 80 to USD 420 /traveller /month
• Insurance Underwriter: David Shield Insurance Company Ltd.
• Best For: Adventure seekers wanting comprehensive trip insurance

SafetyWing: Best Combination For Youth

SafetyWing is a good insurance option for younger travellers or digital nomads in Russia because it offers flexible but comprehensive coverage at a famously affordable price. With SafetyWing, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you're covered for unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. In addition, SafetyWing's user-friendly website lets you manage your policy, file a claim, and access 24/7 assistance from anywhere in the world, and, unlike VisitorsCoverage, you can even purchase a policy retroactively (e.g. during a holiday)!

• Coverage 7.0
• Quality of Service 8.0
• Pricing 6.3
• Credibility 7.3

SafetyWing offers two travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences, which we've highlighted below:

• Policy Names: Nomad Insurance, Remote Health
• Medical Coverage: Decent. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip Coverage: Decent. Includes attractive coverage for lost or stolen belongings, adventure and sports activities, transport cancellation, and many others.
• Pricing Range: USD 45 to USD 160 /traveller /month
• Insurance Underwriter: Tokyo Marine HCC
• Best For: Digital nomads, youth, long-term travellers

How Do They Compare?

Interested to see how VisitorsCoverage, SafetyWing, and Insured Nomads compare as travel insurances to Russia? Take a look at the side-by-side chart below:

Data correct as of 4/1/2024

FAQ About Travel Insurance to Russia

Travel insurance typically covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost or stolen luggage, travel delay, and emergency evacuation. Some travel insurance packages also cover medical-related incidents too. However, remember that the exact coverage depends on the insurance policy.

No, you'll not be required to take out travel insurance for Russia. However, we strongly encourage you to do so anyway, because the cost of healthcare in Russia can be high, and taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself if you need medical attention during your stay.

Yes, medical travel insurance is almost always worth it, and we recommend taking out travel insurance whenever visiting a foreign country. Taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself in case you need medical attention during your stay. In general, we recommend VisitorsCoverage to travellers worldwide because it offers excellent value for money and well-rounded travel and medical benefits in its large catalogue of plans.

Health insurance doesn't cover normal holiday expenses, such as coverage for missed flights and hotels, but in case you run into medical trouble while abroad, it may cover some or all of your doctor or hospital expenses while overseas. However, not all health insurance providers and plans offer coverage to customers while abroad, and that's why it's generally best to take out travel insurance whenever you travel.

Although there's overlap, health and travel insurance are not exactly the same. Health insurance covers some or all of the cost of medical expenses (e.g. emergency treatment, doctor's visits, etc.) while travel insurance covers non-medical costs that are commonly associated with travelling (e.g. coverage for missed flights, stolen or lost personal belongings, etc.).

The cost of travel insurance depends on several factors, such as the length of the trip, the destination, the age of the traveller, and the level of coverage desired. On average, travel insurance can cost anywhere between 3% and 10% of the total cost of the trip.

A single-trip travel insurance policy covers a specific trip, while an annual one covers multiple trips taken within a one-year period. An annual policy may be more cost-effective for frequent travellers.

Yes, you can sometimes purchase travel insurance after starting your trip, but it is best to buy it before the trip begins to ensure maximum coverage. If you do need to buy insurance after you've started your trip, we recommend VisitorsCoverage , which offers a wide catalogue of online trip and medical insurance policies, most of which can be booked with immediate effect. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

Yes, you can most certainly purchase travel insurance for a trip that has already been booked, although we recommend purchasing insurance as soon as possible aftwerwards to ensure all coverage is in place before your journey begins. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

See Our Other Travel Insurance Guides

Looking for Travel Insurance to Another Country?

See our recommendations for travel insurance to other countries worldwide:

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Help cover expenses from diagnosis through recovery.

Hopefully, you and your family will never face cancer. But if you do, Colonial Life is here to help. Our cancer insurance helps provide a financial safety net that can assist with covering cancer-related expenses that medical insurance doesn’t cover, so you can focus on what matters most: recovery.

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Financial hardship does not have to follow a cancer diagnosis

Cancer insurance helps you live well while getting well.

Most of us don't expect to face a serious illness like cancer. Some look to family history to determine risk, but that often doesn't tell the whole story.

Fortunately, more people are surviving cancer thanks to early detection and more aggressive treatments. If you're diagnosed with cancer, you may find that your medical insurance doesn't cover everything. In addition to your day-to-day bills, you could incur costs for treatment and recovery, such as:

• Deductibles and co-pays
• Out-of-network treatment
• Travel, lodging and meals during treatment
• Home health services

The need to scale back on work or take a leave of absence during treatment and recovery only adds to the stress. That's where supplemental cancer insurance helps. It assists with protecting you from financial hardship in the face of mounting cancer expenses.

How Colonial Life cancer insurance works

If cancer affects your life, you should be able to focus on finding the best treatment and getting better – not on how you'll pay your bills.

Colonial Life cancer insurance offers benefits to assist with out-of-pocket costs that may not be covered by your medical insurance, including expenses related to inpatient or outpatient treatment, surgery, travel and recovery care.

Equally important, some plans also cover an annual cancer screening test to promote prevention and early diagnosis. Optional riders may be available to provide even more financial protection during the initial diagnosis period and hospital stays.

With Colonial Life cancer insurance policies:

• Coverage options are available for you, your spouse and your eligible dependents.
• Benefits are payable directly to you, unless you specify otherwise.
• Benefits are payable regardless of any insurance you have with other companies.
• Some policies can be taken with you even if you change jobs.

Plans vary, so talk with your Colonial Life benefits counselor to learn more about how cancer insurance can help provide financial protection for you and your family.

An example of how cancer insurance can help

Paul and Kim were preparing for their second child when they learned Paul had cancer. Here’s how cancer insurance helped cover their out-of-pocket expenses without sacrificing the nest egg they had saved up for their family.

Doctor's screening

Paul's medical insurance wouldn't cover everything, but his cancer insurance helped. His wellness benefit assisted with paying for the screening that discovered his cancer.

Travel costs for second opinion

Kim and Paul used their cancer insurance to help cover lodging and transportation when they traveled to a top cancer hospital for a second opinion.

The couple's benefits also helped offset out-of-pocket deductibles and co-pays related to Paul's surgery, hospital stay and recovery.

The examples above are for illustrative purposes only. Benefits may vary. The certificate and policy have exclusions and limitations. For complete details, see your benefits counselor.

Commonly asked questions about cancer insurance

Our cancer insurance offers more than 20 benefits that can help pay for costs that may not be covered by your medical insurance. Some of these include:

• Radiation/chemotherapy
• Surgical procedures
• Hospital confinement
• Transportation and lodging

To view a copy of your policy, update your contact information and manage your Colonial Life insurance, log in to your account . If you don’t have an account, register here .

To start the claims process or see the status of a claim you have already filed, log in to your account . Filing a claim online and setting up direct deposit is the fastest way to receive benefits. Paper claims are also available. For more information on filing a claim, see our cancer claim page.

You may be able to keep your coverage depending on the policy you have. If you are able to take your policy with you, you will receive a Continuation of Coverage letter with instructions on next steps when your current employment ends. You will need to change your payment method to direct bill, which means you pay Colonial Life directly instead of paying through payroll deduction. To learn more and begin this process, download the Conversion Request Form .

Employers and HR representatives

Find out more about offering Colonial Life individual or group cancer insurance for your employees.

THIS INSURANCE PROVIDES LIMITED BENEFITS.

Cancer Assist (Individual Cancer): Applicable policy form CanAssist.

Group Cancer 1000: Applicable policy form GCAN-MP.

This coverage is a supplement to health insurance. It is not a substitute for essential health benefits or minimum essential coverage as defined in federal law. Insureds in some states must be covered by comprehensive health insurance before applying for this coverage.

This information is not intended to be a complete description of the insurance coverage available. The insurance or its provisions may vary or be unavailable in some states. The insurance has exclusions and limitations which may affect any benefits payable. For cost and complete details of coverage, call or write your benefits counselor or the company.

Underwritten by Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Company, Columbia, SC.

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Medical Emergency Flights Coverage

When a medical emergency strikes while traveling, it can be a worrying and expensive experience. The last thing you want to consider is the price of returning home urgently. Fortunately, travel insurance can often cover medical emergency flights, giving you peace of mind and providing some monetary relief.

In this article, we’ll dive into the details of travel insurance, emergency medical coverage, and tips for traveling with a medical condition.

Understanding Travel Insurance Coverage

Regarding travel insurance, there are many options and it can be challenging to determine what coverage you need. However, understanding the pros and cons of different plans can help you decide what is right for you. Below are some common types of travel insurance plans and what coverage you can expect from them.

Comprehensive Travel Insurance Covering Medical Emergency Flights

A comprehensive travel insurance policy offers extensive coverage, including emergency medical flights and transport costs. This form of international travel insurance often covers some travel delays and limited cancellations. Such plans are typically the most expensive type of plan available due to the large amount of coverage offered.

Medical Travel Insurance

A medical travel insurance plan is designed specifically for travelers who may require emergency medical treatment on their trip. These plans generally cover the cost of emergency medical flight transportation and any medical expenses incurred while traveling.

Evacuation-Only Travel Insurance

Evacuation-only travel insurance plans are designed to cover only the cost of transportation. Therefore, it does not usually include additional coverage for any medical expenses. This type of plan is generally the least expensive option and can sometimes be more  cost-effective if you do not have any existing medical conditions.  Still, it should be noted that it will not cover any other medical costs in the case of a life-threatening emergency, making it a better choice for non-emergency medical flights.

Exclusions and Limitations for Medical Emergency Flights

You should carefully review your policy’s details since medical emergency flights may be subject to specific exclusions and limitations. Examples include:

Pre-existing Medical Conditions

Some policies may not cover pre-existing medical conditions. Such exclusions are typically noted on the policy and should be reviewed carefully before purchasing a plan. Travel insurance for pre-existing conditions is included in some policies and can be added to some other plans for a fee, so be sure you know what your plan covers.

High-Risk Activities

Many travel insurance policies do not cover medical emergency flights related to high-risk activities like skydiving or scuba diving. Check the policy details for any exclusions related to specific activities.

Alcohol and Drug-Related Incidents

In some cases, travel insurance policies may exclude coverage for medical emergency flights due to alcohol or drug-related incidents. To ensure you are fully covered, review the policy details carefully.

Coverage for Medical Emergency Flights

A medical emergency flight is an air ambulance service that transports a patient needing immediate medical attention from their home or destination country to another for treatment. This type of transportation is reserved for urgent, life-threatening illnesses or injuries that require specialized care. In some cases, patients may also require medical repatriation, which is the transportation of a patient back to their home country after treatment.

When it comes to coverage for medical emergency flights, there are usually three options:

• Medical evacuation
• Medical repatriation
• Return of mortal remains

Medical evacuation is typically available with comprehensive travel insurance plans, while some policies may include coverage for both medical evacuation and repatriation. In addition, specialized policies usually provide a return of mortal remains coverage. Without travel insurance, medical repatriation can cost anywhere from $10,000 upwards to $200,000 USD, depending on the country you are being transported from.

How to File a Claim for Medical Emergency Flights

Contact your insurance company immediately after the incident to receive the most up-to-date filing instructions. Most travel insurance policies require the insured to have the insurance company’s Emergency Assistance Team coordinate, arrange, and approve these types of arrangements and expenses.  Some companies will pay these costs upfront instead of putting clients through the claims process. It’s important to read your policy’s Description of Coverage document to ensure you don’t invalidate coverage by excluding the insurance company from this process.

Aegis Insurance works with reliable partners to offer our clients numerous insurance options that make it easy to file a claim. To learn more about health insurance options for travelers and our claims process, visit our claims page , where we’ve broken down what you can expect step-by-step.

Real-Life Examples of Medical Emergency Flights Coverage

A real-life example of the importance of emergency medical flight insurance is the story of an Isle of Wight woman who was saved by an air ambulance after suffering a heart attack. 71-year-old Linda from Godshill was rescued by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, which flew her to the mainland, where she underwent life-saving surgery.

Linda used her policy to cover the fees associated with the air ambulance. Without it, she would have needed to pay the complete out-of-pocket expense for the carrier. Her story is an important reminder that emergency medical evacuation insurance is necessary for any travel medical insurance policy.

Tips for Traveling with Medical Conditions

Traveling with a clinical condition can be overwhelming, so it is crucial to be prepared if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. Pack any medications or other necessary items to help you manage your condition while away from home. Also, always carry a copy of your medical records and other essential documents in an emergency. Most of all, be sure to pick the sort of travel insurance necessary for your circumstance, as some policies might not provide the same level of insurance for pre-existing conditions.

Medical Emergency Flights FAQ

Does travel insurance cover covid-19-related medical emergencies.

Yes, some travel insurance policies may provide coverage for medical emergencies related to COVID-19. However, carefully review the terms and conditions of your policy before you purchase it, as coverage can vary widely between providers.

Can I purchase travel insurance after a medical emergency has occurred?

Most policies require you to buy travel insurance before an incident occurs to be eligible for coverage. If you purchase a policy after the incident, you may no longer be able to claim coverage for medical emergency flights or other benefits related to your plan.

Can I cancel my trip due to a medical emergency and receive a refund?

It depends on the policy and the specific situation. For example, most travel insurance policies cover trip cancellations due to a medical emergency, but you should review your policy for details.

Can I use my regular health insurance for medical emergencies while traveling abroad?

It depends on your policy and the country you’re visiting. Many health insurance plans don’t cover medical services outside of the United States, so you should check with your health insurance provider before traveling to determine what type of coverage is available.

What happens if I require medical attention but do not have travel insurance?

In a medical emergency, you will be responsible for all associated costs if you are not insured by travel insurance and your U.S. health care plan does not cover this type of expense.

Medical Emergency Flights and Aegis General Insurance

Travel insurance is essential to cover unforeseen accidents and emergencies. Many policies cover medical emergencies, including medical emergency flights and evacuation services, if you require immediate medical attention abroad. It is essential to understand the limitations of specific policies so you can pick a policy that is right for you.

Aegis Insurance offers a variety of travel insurance plans to meet your needs, so you can be sure that you’re adequately covered while traveling. Our VIP Plan provides comprehensive coverage, including COVID-19 coverage, travel, accident and health, property coverage, ancillary coverage, and much more. 

If you’re planning a trip soon, consider purchasing our VIP plan to ensure your travel is safe and secure!

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Stress less benefits included with every plan.

This amazing feature allows our clients to potentially avoid fronting their own monies and going through a claim reimbursement process. By contacting Aegis immediately when experiencing any covered event such as a flight disruption, illness, or injury, our team can coordinate the solution and pay for it on the spot. This includes booking or rearranging flights and hotels, coordinating medical care, or arranging a medical evacuation or repatriation. Learn More →

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What if you get sick or injured while traveling.

If a medical emergency strikes while you are on a trip, are you ready for it? Can you get access to a doctor? Or the right medications? Can you be evacuated out of a remote area? Who can coordinate your medical assistance? With Travel Guard, you are covered from the beginning to the end of your trip. We can even coordinate your medical transportation from wherever you are back to the United States once doctors give you the okay to travel. From pre-existing conditions to unexpected events to expensive medical evacuations, you are covered with us.*

*most plans must be purchased within a certain time limit in order to qualify for a pre-existing medical condition waiver

Most US health insurances won’t cover you fully outside of the US. Very few have any coverage at all for emergency evacuations.

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Coverage available to U.S. residents of the U.S. states and District of Columbia only. This plan provides insurance coverage that only applies during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home, and automobile insurance policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer or insurance agent or broker. Coverage is offered by Travel Guard Group, Inc. (Travel Guard). California lic. no.0B93606, 3300 Business Park Drive, Stevens Point, WI 54482, travelguard.com . CA DOI toll free number: 800-927-HELP . This is only a brief description of the coverage(s) available. The Policy will contain reductions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions. Insurance underwritten by National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, Pa., a Pennsylvania insurance company, with its principal place of business at 1271 Avenue of the Americas, 37th FL, New York, NY 10020-1304. It is currently authorized to transact business in all states and the District of Columbia. NAIC No. 19445. Coverage may not be available in all states. Your travel retailer may not be licensed to sell insurance, and cannot answer technical questions about the benefits, exclusions, and conditions of this insurance and cannot evaluate the adequacy of your existing insurance. The purchase of travel insurance is not required in order to purchase any other product or service from the Travel Retailer.

Should you get travel insurance if you have credit card protection?

Editor's Note

Some credit cards offer built-in travel insurance as a cardholder benefit. And it may be tempting to rely on credit card travel protections instead of buying travel insurance. But, the entire point of travel insurance is to be covered if something goes wrong. So, you may be wondering whether you should buy travel insurance even if your credit card offers travel protection.

There isn't one answer that fits every traveler or situation. So in this guide, we'll explore some aspects you should consider, and I'll discuss my take on this topic. Let's dive in so you can make an informed decision for yourself.

Travel insurance you can buy

At a high level, you can pay a relatively small premium (compared to the total cost of your trip) to buy a travel insurance policy that may provide reimbursement or coverage for unexpected issues that affect your trip.

Many different types of protections fall under the term "travel insurance." Standard, comprehensive insurance policies typically include broad coverage across various potential issues.

But there are also policies that offer specific coverage. For example, it's possible to purchase travel insurance that only provides medical protection for international travel (such as GeoBlue ). Likewise, you can also purchase policies that allow you to select the protections you need (such as the build-your-own option with American Express Travel Insurance ).

We've previously compared the best travel insurance policies and providers . So, check out that guide to find the provider and policy that fits your needs best. You can also check a travel insurance aggregator to compare different policies quickly.

Most travel insurance policies exclude any loss incurred due to a preexisting medical condition. However, many policies include a process to obtain a waiver of the preexisting condition exclusion if you meet specific requirements. These requirements typically include purchasing the policy shortly after the first nonrefundable trip payment or deposit and being medically able to travel when you buy the policy. Some companies also require you to insure your trip's full, prepaid, nonrefundable cost to be eligible.

Likewise, all travel insurance policies have several exclusions. For example, most plans exclude medical benefits for injuries during adventure activities such as skydiving or skiing outside maintained trails.

Related: 7 things to look out for when buying travel insurance, according to an expert

Credit card travel protections

Some cards don't provide any special travel protections. But, many of the best travel rewards cards offer travel protections. Here's a look at our guides about some of the most common credit card travel protections:

• Trip delay reimbursement
• Baggage delay reimbursement
• Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
• Travel accident and emergency evacuation insurance

Check out our guide to the best cards that offer travel protections for more details on what card might be best for you. I also recommend reading the guide to benefits for your specific cards, as these documents will detail exactly what protections you can expect when you purchase travel with your card.

Note that some benefits require you to enroll — and virtually all require a formal claim process, with no reimbursement guarantee.

Related: Getting credit card travel insurance to cover the change fee on my Disney cruise

When to purchase travel insurance

Even if you have a credit card that offers travel protection, you may still want to purchase travel insurance for some trips. Here are some scenarios and trips for which it may make sense to purchase travel insurance.

Travel protections aren't offered

As discussed above, not all travel credit cards provide extensive travel protections when you book travel using the card. So, if you're using a card without travel protections or a card that only offers limited travel protections, you may want to purchase travel insurance .

Related: The best credit cards for booking flights

Some travelers aren't covered

Just because a card offers travel protections doesn't mean everyone traveling with you will be covered. In particular, travel protections usually only extend to select relatives of the cardholder. Your credit card's travel insurance may not cover friends, employees and all relatives.

Related: Who is covered by your credit card travel insurance?

Adventure activities

If you plan to partake in an activity that most insurance policies exclude, you may want to purchase a travel insurance policy that explicitly includes your activity of choice.

For example, many policies exclude adventure sports like base jumping, sky diving, free soloing, diving, mountaineering and paragliding. You may want to consider purchasing insurance from an association involved in your adventure activity, such as Divers Alert Network (DAN) if you're a diver or German Alpine Group (DAV) if you partake in alpine sports.

You're concerned about preexisting conditions

Most credit card trip interruption and cancellation insurance benefits exclude cancellations or interruptions caused by a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition. So, you'll want to purchase travel insurance — and ensure you satisfy the provider's preexisting condition exclusion waiver conditions — if you want trip cancellation and interruption insurance that covers preexisting conditions.

Related: 7 times your credit card's travel insurance might not cover you

Nonmedical evacuation insurance

If you want evacuation insurance for nonmedical reasons, you should purchase travel insurance that offers this coverage even if you have a credit card with evacuation insurance .

Read the benefits guide closely, as evacuation benefits may not cover every evacuation you might need. For example, some policies don't cover evacuation from an area with a travel warning when you booked your trip or evacuation from a place suddenly inaccessible due to a landslide or other environmental incident.

Related: A Medjet medical transport membership is different from travel insurance

Cancel for any reason

Suppose you are uncertain whether you'll be able to take your trip, and you're worried that applicable credit card trip protections won't reimburse you if you decide to cancel or interrupt for a reason that isn't covered. In that case, you may want to purchase cancel for any reason trip insurance .

Related: 6 truths and myths about cancel for any reason travel insurance

You want peace of mind

Some travelers prefer to buy travel insurance — for each trip or via an annual travel insurance plan — for the peace of mind that having a travel insurance policy brings. Especially given the issues travelers have faced with a specific credit card insurance provider , it may be worth buying a travel insurance plan if you don't feel confident your credit card travel insurance and individual health insurance will combine to provide enough coverage during your trip.

Related: Here's why I buy an annual travel insurance policy, even though my credit cards offer travel protections

When credit card travel protections may be enough

Suppose you don't fall into any of the categories above and use one of the best credit cards with travel insurance when making travel purchases. In that case, you may determine that credit card protections are enough for some (or all) of your trips. However, I only recommend relying on credit card protections if you also have health insurance that will provide adequate coverage at your destination.

Below is a collection of reasons you can rely on credit card protections instead of purchasing independent travel insurance. If some (or most) of these reasons apply to your trip, it may be reasonable for you to rely on credit card protections instead of buying travel insurance:

• You have personal health insurance that will cover you on your trip, even if treatment is out of network at your destination
• You book your trip with a credit card that provides travel insurance
• You have a credit card that provides medical evacuation benefits during your trip
• You make refundable travel plans that you can cancel for little or no fee
• You tend to change your plans frequently or book travel at the last minute
• You have an emergency fund that can cover unexpected expenses if needed
• You have airline miles or transferable points you can use to leave the area or return home if needed.
• You avoid especially high-risk activities and destinations

The decision of whether to buy travel insurance is complex and personal. If you don't feel confident that your credit card protections and individual health insurance will provide adequate coverage, it's likely worth buying travel insurance.

Related: Why you might want to get a premium credit card instead of purchasing travel insurance

Why credit card travel insurance is usually enough for me

After researching the best travel insurance policies and providers , I purchased travel insurance for one specific trip because I wanted political evacuation coverage.

But for most of my trips, credit card protections and individual health insurance provide enough coverage for me. After all, my travel usually looks like the following:

• My flights are often award flights that I can cancel and redeposit free of charge — or ones that carry minimal change and cancellation fees
• My lodging can almost always be canceled without a penalty until shortly before my stay
• If I book a tour or activity, it's usually within a few days of said tour or activity (or offers free cancellation)
• My health insurance provides out-of-network coverage outside the U.S., so travel insurance would only pay for my deductible. In addition, my out-of-pocket maximum for out-of-network care is low enough to cover using my emergency fund
• I book flights and pay for the taxes and fees for award flights using the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card , which provides excellent travel protections for a $95 annual fee card
• I have ample airline miles and transferable points that I can use to cover last-minute one-way flights if needed

As you can see, the benefits of purchasing travel insurance would be minimal for most of my trips. The travel protections I use most are trip delay protection and baggage delay protection , both of which the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card provides when I use it to pay for my flights.

Related: Why the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Ink Business Preferred combo is perfect for couples who travel

Bottom line

As you book trips, you may wonder whether you should purchase travel insurance. One way to decide is to consider whether you'd be adequately covered without purchasing travel insurance if the worst happens.

If you're willing and able to cover the costs in this situation — or you feel confident you'd be adequately covered by your credit card's travel protections and health insurance — then you may want to proceed without buying travel insurance. Otherwise, I recommend purchasing a travel insurance policy shortly after you make the initial payment for your trip.

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How much should you spend on long-term care insurance? What experts say

By Tim Maxwell

Edited By Angelica Leicht

May 27, 2024 / 9:58 AM EDT / CBS News

The high cost of long-term care can significantly impact seniors' finances at a time when many older Americans can least afford it. According to Genworth's 2023 Cost of Care Survey, the average cost for a private room in a nursing home is $116,800 , representing a 4.9% increase over 2022 costs. While getting assistance from a home health aid is substantially lower, its $75.500 average annual cost still represents an outlay of nearly $6,300 per month.

These expenses can wreak havoc on your finances if you're a senior living on a fixed income from Social Security or a pension. And, long-term care costs are only getting more expensive due to greater demand and increased labor costs.

While Medicare generally won't cover these expenses, the right long-term care insurance plan will. Of course, the same factors that drive up long-term care also impact the price of the insurance to cover it. As such, it's important to understand the costs of long-term care (LTC) insurance and how much you should spend on a policy.

Find out how much a long-term care insurance policy could cost you here .

We asked several experts to weigh in on long-term care insurance costs for seniors. Here's what they had to say:

The cost of long-term care insurance varies by your situation

One idea the experts agree on is that the appropriate amount you might pay for long-term care insurance depends on your personal circumstances. The type of insurance you get, age, coverage options and other factors also weigh heavily in your premium amount.

" The amount seniors should spend on long-term care insurance should align with their personal financial situation, health status, coverage needs and age," says Skip Skolnik, founder and senior estate planner at Skolnik Retirement Solutions. "Seniors should also be aware that many policies are 'use it or lose it,' meaning you could easily pay on a policy for 10 or 20 years, pass in your sleep and have no benefit from the long-term insurance coverage."

Todd Wolfe, a senior insurance associate at Telemus, agrees that your long-term care insurance premium amount depends on your financial situation, goals and needs. 

"It's all about finding a balance that they can afford and be comfortable with. Traditional long-term care costs really does vary because there are so many different design options in addition to the increasing cost with age. The top three that drive the cost are daily or monthly benefit amount, length of coverage and if there is an inflation option selection," Wolfe says.

One of the downsides of long-term care is that its cost can strain your finances, especially if you don't have coverage for it. Insurance can help you protect yourself financially, but determining what and how you should pay for it is challenging.

"There is no perfect formula," says Kevin Patrick Peters, a certified life underwriter and wealth advisor at XML Financial Group. "Typically, a senior considering LTC insurance should own their own home and have assets of $100,000 or more to protect," says Peters, who adds that seniors should also want to protect those assets and remain independent in their home for as long as possible. "Many seniors may consider using a portion of the interest of those assets to pay for LTC insurance if that interest is not required for their day-to-day living expenses."

Explore your long-term care options and compare policies here .

Costs could be lower with employer-provided insurance

As with other types of insurance, it's wise to compare rates from multiple insurers to find the best combination of coverage and costs for your situation. While policy choices play a significant role in the amount of your long-term care insurance premiums, who provides your policy is equally important.

Chris Orestis, president of Retirement Genius, recommends getting coverage through your employer if you have that opsion. 

"People can also obtain coverage through a hybrid life and LTC insurance policy, or they can purchase an annuity that offers LTC coverage. Each option offers unique benefits that will impact what they cost, but the overall average cost of a standard long-term care insurance policy for someone age 60 is about $1,200 and by age 65 increases to $1,700," Orestis says.

How to secure cost-effective long-term care insurance

Premiums for long-term care insurance tend to be lower for younger applicants, so it often pays to take out a policy early if you anticipate needing care later in life. Another way to keep your insurance costs in check is to avoid purchasing more coverage than necessary. Consider your financial means to make payments, how much family support you might expect and what coverage options are essential versus what you may do without.

One of the most significant factors to play a role in your long-term care insurance premiums is the amount of coverage you purchase. That's why, if your goal is to make long-term care insurance more affordable, you may want to take the time to consider how much coverage you'll need and what financial assets and resources will be available to you if you need long-term care.

Skolnik recommends looking into hybrid insurance products, which may address your needs better. 

"There are hybrid-joint policies that will pay out a multiple as high as three times the premium to cover the needs of care," he says. "Many of these are also 100% return of premium, which means if you or your spouse never need to go to a nursing home, the initial premium is returned with a guaranteed compounded interest rate to the insured estate."

The bottom line

While it's not something we like to think about or plan for, statistics show that we should prepare for our care in our later years. According to the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College, roughly 80% of 65-year-olds will need some form of long-term care at some point. As such, it's wise to prepare for long-term care before age 65 , although planning later is still beneficial.

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