Key points
- Fear before the first trip is normal
- Start with a short trip close to home
- Most patients who travel once want to travel again
Starting dialysis often feels like the end of travelling. The first trip is the hardest, mostly because of the unknown. Here is how to take that step.
Why the fear is normal
New centre, new nurses, new routine: it is natural to worry. Surveys show that many patients hold back from booking holidays, mainly because of organisation, not medical problems (read the research).
Build confidence step by step
- Wait until your treatment is stable: ask your nephrologist when
- Start with a short stay, one week, with a short flight
- Travel with someone the first time (see our guide for families)
- Choose a hotel near the centre and ask for morning sessions
- Prepare everything with our checklist
On the day of your first session abroad
Arrive early, bring your file, and tell the nurses about your habits: your arm, your usual blood flow, how you usually feel. Most patients are surprised by how quickly they feel at ease.
After the trip
Talk about it with your home team: what went well, what you would change. Many patients start planning the next trip on the flight home.
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.