A good trip on dialysis starts with a good checklist. Print this page, tick each line and you will travel with peace of mind.
Medical documents (hand luggage)
- Dialysis report from your home unit, translated if possible
- Prescription and full list of medications with doses
- Recent blood tests and hepatitis B, C and HIV serology
- Confirmation from the dialysis centre abroad with address and session times
- Your nephrologist's phone number and email
- Insurance details and, if relevant, the authorisation from your health insurer
Medication
- Enough tablets for the whole stay plus a few extra days in case of delay
- Phosphate binders: take them with every meal, even on holiday
- Keep medication in its original boxes and in your hand luggage
- A doctor's letter for injectable medication if you carry any
Protecting your access
- Never let anyone take blood pressure or blood on your fistula arm
- Avoid heavy bags on the fistula arm: use a suitcase with wheels
- Check the thrill of your fistula every day
- Catheter: keep the dressing dry, bring spare dressings if your unit advises it
Diet and fluids
- A small bottle or marked cup to measure what you drink
- Low-potassium snacks for the journey
- A list of foods to limit (potassium, phosphorus, salt), see our diet articles
Contacts and practical details
- WhatsApp number of your coordinator
- The address of your hotel written in the local language
- Local emergency number of the country you visit
Learn more
Travelling with family? Read our guide for families. Need the words? See our dialysis glossary.
Planning a trip on dialysis?
Tell us your dates: we book your sessions near your hotel and reply within 12 hours.
Useful resources
This article is general information and does not replace the advice of your nephrologist or renal team.