Costly Travel Insurance Is A Bane For Cancer Patients. But There’s An Alternative

Sep 22, 2022

Last Updated on: Jun 19, 2025

Travel Guides

A UK cancer charity has been raising awareness about what it calls the ‘scandal’ of cancer patients being quoted travel insurance premiums so high they cannot afford to go on holiday. 

Hampshire-based PLANETS, which supports people with neuroendocrine, pancreatic, liver, colorectal, abdominal, and pancreatic cancer, has accused travel insurance providers of applying a ‘one-size-fits-all’ policy to cancer patients which often penalizes people even when they are in remission and have been in good health for a number of years. 

As well as pointing out that many insurers simply refuse to cover anyone with a history of cancer, making their search for cover more difficult, PLANETS also highlights some of the exorbitant prices cancer patients are sometimes quoted – as if to purposefully put them off.

There Are Alternatives For Cancer Patients

It points to two cases it came across of patients it worked with, both of whom had neuroendocrine tumors. One was quoted for a two-week trip to Canada requiring £7,000. The other was told to enjoy a week in Spain, it would cost £1,000 for them.

PLANETS co-founder Jo Green also has neuroendocrine cancer. The condition is incurable, but with treatment can be managed successfully for many years. She has been living with it for 11 years, has no symptoms, and is in good health. But she too faces obstructive practices whenever she tries to get insurance to go abroad. 

The reason why PLANETS has taken up the cause of travel insurance for cancer patients is that, as Jo puts it, going on holiday is an “essential” coping mechanism for many people living with the realities of a long-term medical condition. 

“You’ve already been dealt a pretty bad card if you’ve had cancer,” she says. “It is a shame insurance companies can’t be more helpful and realistic in order to allow patients to seek respite through holidays which are important to health and wellbeing.” 

Her thoughts are echoed by her fellow co-founder Neil Pearce, a specialist in pancreas, liver, and neuroendocrine tumor surgery.

“For many people, the respite and morale boost a holiday away with family or friends brings is invaluable to their life, yet we are in the perverse situation where very little effort [by travel insurers] is even put in to establish the condition a person is in.”

Fair Prices And Bespoke Policies

After cancer travel insurance reviews, most mainstream travel insurance providers simply aren’t set up to deal with the nuances of people’s health on a case-by-case basis. To them, someone with a pre-existing medical condition represents heightened risk – the risk of falling ill while they are abroad and claiming medical expenses, the risk of requiring more expensive specialist interventions. 

Those risks are simply categorized by the condition. Whatever the condition, that’s the additional charge (if they even agree to offer cover for it at all). And everyone with that condition has to pay that same price. 

It’s also the case that certain medical conditions attract much higher premiums than others. Cancer is right at the top of that list. 

This is all commonplace in the travel insurance sector, but it’s by no means universal. There are providers who specialize in medical travel insurance, i.e. policies specifically geared for people with long-term medical conditions. 

The Difference Between The Travel Insurance And Medical Insurance

The big difference in how these niche providers operate is that they do take the health of the individual into consideration. This is usually done by means of a simple medical questionnaire.

Prospective customers will be asked about their medical history, what condition (or conditions) they are currently living with, how it is managed, what medication they are on, their current state of health, etc. 

From this information, medical travel insurance providers are the best insurance for cancer patients and are able to do two things. One, they can make a fairer evaluation of the risk an individual actually poses.

So for cancer patients, if they are in remission or if their symptoms are well managed and they are in good health, they can be offered a policy at a fair price. 

The insurer understands it isn’t simply cancer that poses the risk – it’s the individual circumstances of the patient. Second, knowing something about the medical background of the individual means specialist insurers can offer policies tailored to their needs. 

Although all travel insurance includes cover for medical costs, this is generally only for generic emergency treatments, not interventions specific to a particular condition. 

What If You’re Diagnosed With Cancer After You Purchase Travel Insurance?

Imagine you and your spouse decide to take a Paris trip to commemorate your 25th wedding anniversary. To safeguard the vacation, you also buy travel insurance.

Six months later, a regular mammogram finds a lump in your breast, and stage 2 breast cancer is the result of this discovery. You have to have radiation and surgery, so your eagerly anticipated cruise will have to wait.

When you’re dealing with a cancer diagnosis, travel insurance with trip cancellation benefits might be really helpful. Travel insurance after breast cancer cancellation benefits can pay you back for your paid, non-refundable trip expenses if your symptoms (or the side effects of treatment) are incapacitating enough to force you to cancel your trip and if your doctor recommends it. In this matter, you can reschedule your Paris trip after your wife has recovered. 

Final Words

As a cancer patient or anyone else with a long-term medical condition, you want the reassurance that if you do fall ill on your holidays, you will get the care and attention that you need – and that the cost of it will be covered by your insurance.

Please remember that travel insurance can’t pay for planned medical expenses. Plus, travel insurance will not pay for elective care, non-emergency care,  experimental treatment, and long-term care in your insurance policy. 

Apart from this, if you have any more questions, you can ask by commenting below. Please share your opinions, if I missed any points to mention here. 

Read Also:

Share on Social Media

Arnab is a professional blogger, having an enormous interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, He carries out sharing sentient blogs.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE AI in member engagement

How AI Is Revolutionizing Member Engagement In Corporate Travel: Enhancing Interaction And Personalization

BY  Anindita Dey Oct 29, 2025

I was going through a recent report of Ernst & Young (EY). It was about how generative AI is changing the tourism industry.  The report features data from the recent WiT Singapore conference. It said that around 60% of the travelers from the Asia Pacific use AI tools to research and book travel destinations.  Furthermore, many airlines, hotel chains, and travel booking platforms are using AI for better data management, analysis, and revenue management. Moreover, the use of AI is offering a customized experience with UX (user experience) highlights, such as voice-based interfaces and personalized itineraries.  Thanks to these efficient virtual assistants, the ease of travel booking and personalization of itineraries, AI is also improving member engagement in corporate travel. There is a reason why names such as Kayak, United Airlines, and Concur Travel are using AI for travel booking, information updates, and more.  Hi, in today’s blog, we will talk about the role of AI in member engagement in corporate travel.   Why Is AI In Member Engagement Crucial For Corporate Travel?  From creating a personalized visual identity with an efficient profile picture-making tool, such as PFP maker, to offering real-time support and updates, AI is boosting member engagement in corporate travel.  1. Real-Time Travel Updates Chatbots and virtual assistants are changing the way we used to follow up on our travel bookings and itineraries. They offer real-time support and updates.  Furthermore, a travel booking platform with AI uses predictive analytics to enhance your booking choices. Also, the automated expense reporting eliminates all paperwork. In addition, an AI-powered fraud detection mechanism helps to identify unauthorized expenses. Thus, it ensures compliance with corporate travel policies.  2. Data Analysis To Avoid Delays And Disruptions   The machine learning algorithms of a travel booking or management system can identify cost-saving opportunities by analyzing large amounts of data.  Furthermore, machine learning boosts member engagement by identifying preferred travel modes and patterns. Also, machine learning keeps you informed about anticipated delays, suggesting alternative routes and the best flight and hotel options in this scenario.  Thus, AI accomplishes two tasks at once. It boosts the operational efficiency of the travel organizer and improves the experience of the traveler.  3. Personalized Travel Recommendations  We all have our travel preferences. AI analyzes the data and our travel search patterns to create personalized travel recommendations. AI also takes cues from the previous booking and specific corporate travel policies of a company.  Thus, AI helps save time on the process of finding and booking hotels, airlines, or trains. Moreover, AI improves employee satisfaction with cost-effectiveness. So, the employer and the employee are both in a win-win situation.  4. The Use Of AI Makes Travel More Sustainable  Did you know that AI can analyze carbon footprint? By analyzing carbon footprint, AI offers recommendations for environmentally friendly travel choices. Thus, it supports corporates to achieve their specific CSR goals.  Also, companies can use these AI insights to optimize their travel budget and reduce environmental impact to make their travel experience more efficient.  5. Policy Enforcement  Every business has a policy or a set of guidelines regarding corporate travel. AI can assess those policies, and it considers the same policies for completing travel booking and management.  In other words, an AI-integrated system ensures that the booking agrees with the specific corporate travel policies. This is effective for compliance and cost-effectiveness.  However, this compliance is not just limited to the policies of a specific company. An AI system knows the changing policies, travel advisories, latest occurrences, and announcements of a place.  Also, there can be wildlife conservation norms or sustainable tourism guidelines. Breaking any of these can lead to severe legal implications.  When you are choosing a particular place, AI will share all these updates so that your travel experience is hassle-free.  What Are The Drawbacks Of Using AI In Member Engagement For Corporate Travel?  I have already mentioned that data assessment and analytics are important aspects of the use of AI in corporate travel management. However, what if the data is incorrect? In reality, there have been instances where incorrect data has put the traveler and the travel company in a spot.  In this context, I must share the example of the Air Canada case in 2022. Jake Moffatt, a passenger, was assured by the chatbot that if he booked a full-fare flight for his grandmother’s funeral, he would be eligible to get a bereavement fare once the trip was over.  However, the claim was wrong and Air Canada refused to pay the bereavement fee. So, Jake Moffatt took the legal way.  Despite Air Canada trying to defend its position and establish the chatbot as a separate legal entity, the British Columbia Civil Resolution Tribunal held Air Canada accountable for the false dissemination of information.  So, Moffatt got a compensation of $812.02 from Air Canada. The BBC has also quoted the written response of the tribunal member, Christopher Rivers.  “It should be obvious to Air Canada that it is responsible for all the information on its website. It makes no difference whether the information comes from a static page or a chatbot.”  This incident highlights how any information mistake or “customer hallucination” caused by AI tools will make the concerned company accountable.  Good Data Hygiene And Avoiding Silos: The Future Of Using AI In Corporate Travel Management  A corporate travel booking or management company needs to be particular about good data hygiene. That is why you have to ensure that duplicates are eliminated, formats are standardized, and formatting is accurate.  When the data is well-structured and clean, a travel management company can offer the best and most accurate travel policies, cost forecasts, and a better travel experience.  Data silos are another challenge in using AI in corporate .. The problem occurs when data is kept in disconnected and separate stores. When data is fragmented, AI cannot offer a comprehensive view of anything.  So, the spending estimates and travel patterns will eventually go wrong. So, the use or incorporation of data needs to be integrated for a comprehensive result of the search or query of a traveler.

READ MORE Vacationing Without Travel Insurance

Vacationing Without Travel Insurance? Here’s What Might Happen If You Need It!

BY  Barsha Nov 8, 2023

Picture this: You've been planning your dream vacation for months, and the excitement is palpable. You've booked your flights, reserved a luxurious beachfront villa, and even made restaurant reservations at that five-star restaurant you've been drooling over. But there's one crucial detail that many travelers often overlook – travel insurance. While it might seem like an unnecessary expense, the absence of vacation travel insurance can have dire consequences. In this blog post, we'll explore the potential risks of traveling without proper coverage. Check out how it could even impact your life insurance. Medical Emergencies Abroad One of the most critical aspects of vacation travel insurance is medical coverage. Imagine falling ill or getting injured while abroad, requiring medical attention. Without travel insurance, you could be left with exorbitant medical bills, putting your financial stability at risk. Medical expenses abroad can be astronomical, especially if you need hospitalization or emergency medical evacuation. Having travel insurance ensures that you're protected against these unforeseen medical expenses. Moreover, it gives you peace of mind while you're enjoying your vacation. Trip Cancellations And Interruptions Life is unpredictable, and even the best-laid vacation plans can go awry. Illness, family emergencies, or unexpected work commitments can force you to cancel or cut short your trip. Without vacation travel insurance, you might lose a significant portion of your non-refundable trip expenses. Thereby leaving you with an empty wallet and no vacation memories to cherish. Travel insurance typically covers trip cancellations and interruptions due to valid reasons, allowing you to recoup your financial losses and plan for a future trip. Lost Or Delayed Baggage Baggage mishaps are more common than you might think. Airlines misplace luggage, and delays can leave you without your belongings for days. Imagine arriving at your tropical destination with no swimsuit, sunscreen, or even your essential medications. Travel insurance often includes coverage for lost, stolen, or delayed baggage, providing compensation for the inconvenience and ensuring you can enjoy your vacation without unnecessary stress. Travel Insurance And Life Insurance Interplay While you might not immediately associate vacation travel insurance with life insurance, the two have interconnections in some ways. Your life insurance policy might have some influence if you engage in high-risk activities during your vacation without proper coverage.  Some travel insurance policies offer optional coverage for extreme sports or adventurous activities, which can protect you and prevent any negative impact on your life insurance coverage. Engaging in risky activities without insurance not only jeopardizes your physical well-being but can also lead to complications when it comes to your life insurance claims. Emergency Medical Evacuation In the unfortunate event of a severe medical emergency, while you're traveling, you may require emergency medical evacuation to receive proper care. This can involve airlifting you to a specialized medical facility, often in another country. The cost of such evacuations can be astronomical, ranging from tens of thousands to over a hundred thousand dollars. Without travel insurance, you'd be responsible for covering these expenses, potentially draining your savings or even putting you in debt. This financial burden can have a cascading effect on your life insurance. Since your ability to maintain your premiums may be compromised. Legal Assistance Travel insurance can also provide legal assistance in case you encounter legal troubles while abroad. Whether it's a simple traffic violation, a passport issue, or a more serious legal matter, having access to legal support can be invaluable. Without travel insurance, you'd have to navigate these legal challenges on your own, potentially leading to costly fines, delays, or even imprisonment. These legal issues can disrupt your life and have financial implications that could affect your ability to maintain your life insurance coverage. Peace Of Mind And Financial Protection In addition to the specific scenarios mentioned above, vacation travel insurance offers peace of mind throughout your trip. Knowing that you’re safe against unforeseen circumstances allows you to relax and fully enjoy your vacation. It’s a small price to pay for the assurance that you won’t experience financial turmoil if something goes wrong. Summing It Up In conclusion, vacationing without travel insurance is a risky proposition that can have far-reaching consequences. From medical emergencies to trip cancellations, lost baggage, and legal troubles, the absence of coverage can turn your dream vacation into a financial nightmare. Moreover, it's essential to recognize the potential impact on your life insurance. Ensure not to engage in risky activities without adequate protection. To safeguard your financial well-being and enjoy your travels worry-free, it's wise to invest in comprehensive vacation travel insurance. Before your next trip, take the time to research and choose a policy that suits your needs and the nature of your vacation. Remember, travel insurance is not just an expense! It's a safety net that ensures you return home with cherished memories and your financial stability intact. Don't leave home without it! Read Also: How To Fund The Cost Of Travelling How To Apply For A Passport Online In This Pandemic, And Which Countries Allow You To Travel Now?

READ MORE Warm Weather Vacations

The 10 Best Warm Weather Vacations

BY  Nabamita Nov 30, 2023

When the chill of winter sets in, the allure of warm weather destinations becomes irresistible. From sun-drenched beaches to lush tropical forests, the world is brimming with spots perfect for shedding layers and basking in warmth.  In our roundup of the 10 best warm weather vacations, we explore diverse corners of the globe where the sun shines bright, the waters beckon, and the warm breeze carries the promise of unforgettable experiences. These destinations promise a respite from the cold and an adventure into the heart of warm weather bliss. 1. Seychelles Seychelles is a dreamy destination, known for its warm climate and stunning natural beauty. This archipelago in the Indian Ocean boasts 115 islands. Each is a slice of paradise with turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. The lush tropical forests are home to rare wildlife, enhancing its allure. Among the must-visit spots is Mahe Island, the vibrant heart of Seychelles. This island also attracts foreign entrepreneurs who come here to open offshore companies and trusts. Praslin Island offers the unique Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve. For a picturesque retreat, La Digue Island is unmatched with its iconic Anse Source D'Argent beach. 2. Anguilla Anguilla is a captivating warm weather destination, renowned for its serene beaches and crystal-clear waters. This Caribbean gem is a haven of tranquility, offering a perfect escape from the hustle of everyday life. Its coastline is dotted with over 30 stunning beaches, each with its unique charm. Shoal Bay East is a world-class beach known for its soft, white sands. Rendezvous Bay offers breathtaking sunsets and gentle waves, ideal for relaxation. For a touch of history, visit the Heritage Collection Museum. 3. Ibiza A jewel in the Mediterranean, Ibiza is famed for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches. This Spanish island attracts sun-seekers and party-goers alike with its warm climate and lively atmosphere. Its coastline is a mosaic of hidden coves and expansive sandy stretches, perfect for relaxation and water sports. Notable attractions in Ibiza include the bustling Ibiza Town, rich in history and culture. Playa d'en Bossa is renowned for its beach clubs and music scenes. For a quieter experience, visit the tranquil Cala Comte. Ibiza's blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and dynamic nightlife makes it a top warm weather destination. 4. Bali With its lush tropical climate, Bali is a premier destination for warm weather enthusiasts. This Indonesian island is famous for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches. Its diverse environment ranges from volcanic mountains to tranquil rice paddies, offering a unique experience. Popular attractions in Bali include Ubud, the cultural heart, known for its art and traditional crafts. Seminyak boasts trendy beaches and upscale boutiques. For breathtaking natural beauty, visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces. 5. Menorca Menorca is a serene Balearic Island known for its idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters, This Spanish island offers a tranquil alternative to its busier neighbors. Its landscape is adorned with charming coves and lush greenery, creating a peaceful retreat. Ciutadella is a picturesque and historic city on the western coast of Menorca with charming old town, Gothic architecture, and beautiful harbor. Cala Macarella is famous for its turquoise waters and scenic beauty. The island's capital, Mahon, offers a rich cultural experience with its Georgian architecture. 6. Morocco Diverse landscapes and rich culture make Morocco a fantastic warm weather destination. It offers sun-drenched beaches, vast deserts, and vibrant cities. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene Sahara Desert, each location presents a unique experience. The coastal city of Essaouira contains windy beaches and historic medina. The blue city of Chefchaouen enchants visitors with its picturesque streets. For a desert adventure, Merzouga is the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Morocco's mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm climate make it an intriguing and exciting vacation spot. 7. Panama Panama is the bridge between Central and South America. It’s a top choice for vacationers because of its warm climate and diverse landscapes. It offers lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and vibrant city life. The Panama Canal, an engineering marvel, attracts visitors globally, while the capital, Panama City, blends modern skyscrapers with historic colonial architecture. For beach enthusiasts, Bocas del Toro is a must-visit with its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. The San Blas Islands offer an authentic experience with indigenous communities. Boquete is perfect for nature lovers, with its coffee plantations and cloud forests. 8. Croatia Croatia is a stunning warm weather destination, celebrated for its crystal-clear Adriatic Sea and historic coastal towns. Its landscape is a picturesque blend of beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and lush national parks. The country's unique culture and Mediterranean cuisine add to its charm. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik, enchants with its well-preserved medieval walls. The Plitvice Lakes National Park offers breathtaking natural beauty with its cascading lakes and waterfalls. Hvar Island is famous for its sunny beaches and vibrant nightlife.  9. Moskito Island Moskito Island, nestled in the British Virgin Islands, is an exclusive and luxurious warm weather haven. Known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, it offers an unparalleled private retreat. The island boasts lush landscapes, providing a backdrop for relaxation and adventure. Top attractions include private villas with breathtaking ocean views, offering ultimate privacy and comfort. Activities range from snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs to exploring secluded coves by kayak. Moskito Island's fusion of exclusivity, natural beauty, and serene environment makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a high-end, tranquil warm weather vacation. 10. Necker Island Necker Island is a private oasis in the British Virgin Islands. This 74-acre island is enveloped by turquoise waters and coral reefs, offering a paradisiacal escape. It's famed for its commitment to conservation and sustainability, hosting diverse wildlife including flamingos and giant tortoises. The island features sumptuous accommodations, each with unique, opulent designs that blend seamlessly with the natural environment. Guests can indulge in activities like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing in the clear waters. The Great House, perched on a hilltop, offers panoramic views of the Caribbean. It's the social hub for exquisite dining and entertainment. Read Also: Island Paradise Unveiled: Best Time To Visit The Philippines I Had No Idea When To Visit Mauritius Till I Went There THIS Time! Best Time To Experience Dubai: The City Of Gold