Travelling with PKD on Dialysis
Dialysis doesn’t have to stop you enjoying a holiday, in the UK or abroad. Many destinations and even some cruises offer haemodialysis (HD), while peritoneal dialysis (PD) supplies can often be delivered to where you’re staying. Follow a few key steps, and you can travel with confidence!
“Dialysis didn’t stop my trip to thailand”
Kim, who was diagnosed with PKD at 38, spent five weeks in Thailand in January while on peritoneal dialysis (PD).
“I’ve been on dialysis for just over two and a half years, and I never imagined I’d still be able to take a trip like this, but with the right planning it really was possible.
I spoke to my dialysis team about sending supplies, checked I was fit to travel, sorted insurance, and made sure my hotel could accept a large delivery.
At first, I was nervous about switching from my usual machine to manual PD. It meant learning a slightly different routine. I also worried the delivery might not turn up, so I asked the hotel to send me a photo once it had arrived, which really helped reassure me.
The biggest challenge was finding affordable insurance, but in shopping around I saved 85% compared to my first quote!
When I arrived, everything just worked. I settled into my routine quickly, and doing my dialysis while enjoying the sights and scents of Thailand is something I’ll never forget.”
Also read about John, who used a portable NxStage home haemodialysis machine to keep travelling abroad while on dialysis.
Top tips for travelling on dialysis
Start with your kidney team
Before booking, speak to your kidney team two to three months ahead. They’ll confirm you’re fit to travel and help plan your care while you’re away. Always wait until dialysis arrangements are confirmed before making any bookings.
Planning your dialysis
Haemodialysis: Arrange sessions at a unit near your accommodation. Your home unit may help, or you can contact units directly. Check they can meet your clinical needs, confirm your booking in writing, and understand any costs, including whether your GHIC or EHIC is accepted. Plan transport and activities around treatment days. If you use a portable home HD machine, speak to your home therapies team early.
Peritoneal dialysis: This offers more flexibility. Exchanges can usually be done in a clean space with access to a sink. Supplies can be delivered in advance via your renal unit and supplier.
If you’re on the transplant waiting list, speak to your team before travelling, as you may need to pause your listing.
Travel insurance matters
Take out comprehensive travel insurance that covers dialysis. Declare PKD and any other conditions honestly, and make sure your policy includes treatment abroad, emergency care, and repatriation if needed.
Pack smart
Keep key documents in your hand luggage: a doctor’s letter, medication list, dialysis prescription and schedule, insurance details, GHIC/EHIC (for Europe), and recent blood results if available.
Take enough medication for your trip, plus extra in case of delays, and keep it in original packaging. If you’re on PD, ensure supplies are arranged and delivered before you arrive.
Keep all medications and vital supplies in your carry-on luggage.
Stay well while away
- Watch your salt intake and stick to your fluid allowance.
- Ask your care team about managing fluids in hot climates.
- Speak to your kidney dietitian before travelling if you follow a special diet.
- Drink bottled or boiled water and use it for brushing your teeth.
- Avoid ice, salads and uncooked fruit or vegetables that may have been washed in tap water.
- Avoid ice cream from street vendors.
Before you travel, locate the nearest hospital. Learning simple phrases like “I need dialysis” or “I have kidney disease” can be helpful in an emergency.
If you'd like to discuss how we can support you or a loved one, learn more about our services or contact our team today.