Flying is perfectly possible for most dialysis patients. A few simple habits make the day of travel much easier.
Approximate direct flight time from Paris hours
Plan the flight around your sessions
The best moment to fly is usually the day after a session, when you are close to your dry weight and not too tired. Avoid flying on the evening of the longest gap between sessions (often the weekend gap), when fluid and potassium are at their highest.
Nine tips for the day of travel
- Book a seat near the aisle so you can stand up and walk easily
- Move your ankles and walk every hour to help circulation
- Drink small sips: airports and planes make you thirsty, but your fluid limit does not change
- Avoid salty airport snacks, they make thirst worse
- Keep all medication and your medical file in your hand luggage
- Wear loose clothing that does not squeeze the fistula arm
- Ask for airport assistance if long walks tire you: it is free with most airlines when requested in advance
- Tell security staff about your fistula if they want to search your arm
- Plan your first session abroad within one day of arrival
Is the cabin pressure a problem?
For most patients, no. If you have heart or lung problems, ask your nephrologist whether you need any special precautions.
Learn more
Prepare your documents with our travel checklist and read how to book holiday dialysis.
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.