Cancerbackup: Checklist

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Checklist - things for people with cancer to consider before travel

  • Are you fit to travel safely?
  • Do any special arrangements need to be made for travelling?
  • Will you need an escort?
  • Will special equipment need to be provided? 
  • Have you let the airline/ferry company/car hire company etc know about any special needs that you have?
  • Do you need particular vaccinations for the area you are travelling to?
  • Have you got enough medicines/medical supplies for the whole time away?
  • Carry all supplies as hand luggage and don’t let go of it.
  • Make sure you have your passport and an additional form of proof of UK residence, such as a driver’s licence.
  • Take your European Health Insurance Card, if you are visiting European Union countries.
  • Take your E112 form if needed.
  • Take your travel insurance policy and certificate.
  • Take any relevant vaccination certificates.
  • If you are flying, book in early and ask for a seat with plenty of leg room.
  • Have you got import and export licences for medicines, if these are needed?
  • Do you have a medical summary from your doctor to take with you?
  • Do you and your escorts have adequate travel insurance?
  • If you have a stoma, does your hotel have ensuite facilities? It may be helpful to ask if where you will be staying has facilities to dispose of appliances.

Content last reviewed: 01 August 2006
Page last modified: 06 November 2006

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Cancerbackup has merged with Macmillan Cancer Support. We will be providing the same high quality, expertly developed information about cancer and now we can make it available to everyone who needs it.