Travelling on dialysis
A practical checklist for trips on haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. This is general information, not medical advice — your own kidney team knows your case and should sign off your plans.
Documents to carry
- A recent dialysis prescription (dialyser, dwell/flow settings, dry weight, anticoagulation).
- Blood results from the last 4–6 weeks, including virology (hepatitis B and C, HIV).
- A fit-to-travel / fit-to-fly letter from your nephrologist.
- A list of your medications with doses, ideally in generic names.
- Your nephrologist's and home unit's contact details.
- Travel and medical insurance documents that state dialysis is covered.
What to pack
- Enough medication for the whole trip plus about a week spare, in hand luggage.
- For PD: order supplies to your destination in advance and confirm delivery before you fly.
- Any dressings or clamps you normally use for your access or catheter.
- A refillable water bottle so you can keep to your fluid limit in the heat.
- Hand sanitiser and mask for the clinic if you want them.
Managing travel days
- Try to dialyse the day before you fly and book a session within a day of arriving.
- Watch fluid and salt on travel days — airport food and long journeys add up.
- Move around on long flights and keep your access arm free of tight straps or bags.
- Carry snacks that fit your diet; don't rely on what's available in transit.
- Allow for time-zone shifts when planning your first session abroad.
At the clinic abroad
- Arrive early for your first session with your documents and passport.
- Confirm your dry weight with the unit and mention any recent changes.
- Ask how to reach them out of hours and what to do in an emergency.
- Keep your confirmation and receipts for any insurance claim.
Not sure what visa or entry paperwork you need? Check visa & entry requirements for your passport and destination.
Ready to plan the dialysis side of your trip? Request a booking and we'll take it from here.