Questions to ask your oncologist/specialist  

• Is it safe for me to travel domestically?  
• Is it safe for me to travel overseas?  
• Is there a ‘best time’ for me to travel?  
• Will I need any vaccinations?  
• Is it safe for me to have these vaccinations?  
• What should I carry with me at all times in the event of an emergency?  
• Is there anything special I should do during a flight to minimise my risk of problems?

Other things to consider

Check with the consulate of the country you are travelling to regarding restrictions on the type of medication that are not allowed into their country.

Learn more about air travel within Australia for people with special circumstances on the TravelSECURE website.

For more information on international operations, visit the Smartraveller website. 

Before you travel, obtain the following documents and keep them in your hand luggage throughout your trip:

• A letter from your oncologist/specialist containing:
  • Authorisation to travel
  • Summary of your medical condition
  • Information on any prostheses or wearable medical devices
  • Information on medical devices needed during travel
  • Guidance on what to do if you become unwell
  • A complete medication list for all health conditions

• The manufacturer’s information sheet for any prostheses or medical equipment

Take both printed and digital copies of all important documents in case physical copies are lost or stolen, or there is no internet access at your destination.

IMPORTANT

Check with the consulate of the country you are travelling to regarding restrictions on medications not allowed into their country.

Activities

Look at the activities you would like to do on your trip.

Think about how much walking and other physical movement is needed for each activity:

• Consider if the amount of activity you are planning to do will cause you to become fatigued.  
• Include rest times in your schedule to manage fatigue   
• Look at what SunSmart measures for each activity needs as your skin may be more sensitive to UV  

Talk to your travel agent about the following so they can inform the airline and any tours you have booked on: 

• Any special dietary requirements  
• Any special equipment. e.g. wheelchair, oxygen, other medical equipment  

If you don't have a travel agent, call or email your airline and/or tour company to let them know this information directly. 

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower 

Consider wearing a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard, wrist band or brooch to discreetly indicate to transport staff in 12 countries that you may need assistance. Find out more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower here

Plan where you will go to receive medical care at your destination(s) if needed.  

Domestic travel

Ask  your cancer specialist where they recommend you go for cancer services at your destination(s). 

International travel

Reciprocal Healthcare Agreements – check the Services Australia website to see:  

• If your destination country has a reciprocal healthcare agreement with Australia  
• What is included in the reciprocal healthcare agreement for your destination countries  

Make a list of major hospitals in your destination countries with their address and phone numbers.

Airport Security Screening 

Airport security screening is necessary to keep Australia safe. Airport security staff are there to guide you through the process of security screening.

Most international airports use security systems and full-body scanners that can detect items worn under clothing, such as prostheses and other wearable medical devices.

Learn more about air travel within Australia for people with special circumstances on the TravelSECURE website.

For more information on international operations, visit the Smartraveller website.