How to Travel While on Home Hemodialysis
“How can I travel while on dialysis?” This is a question asked by many dialysis patients, especially those receiving home hemodialysis. The idea of traveling while on home dialysis can feel overwhelming. But with the right preparation, you can enjoy the holiday season with family and friends around the country. In this blog, we will walk you through the main things to consider so you feel prepared and confident before you travel.
How Do I Need to Prepare for Dialysis Travel and How Soon?
Just like booking a flight or reserving a hotel, your dialysis travel plans need to start early. We recommend talking with your care team 4 to 6 weeks before your trip. Let your nephrologist and home dialysis nurse know your travel dates, destination, and how you’ll get there. They will review your prescription, confirm your treatment schedule and help make sure everything is ready for your arrival. When your care team is aware of your plans, they have time to prepare so your treatment goes smoothly no matter where you are.
Supplies and Equipment
Supplies are the top priority for traveling on home dialysis. Work with your care team and supplier to have everything you need ahead of time. Always double-check that your order is confirmed before you leave. It’s a good idea to pack a small “just in case” supply kit with you.
How you travel matters, and a few small steps can make things easier:
- Air Travel: Contact your airline before your trip to let them know you’ll be traveling with medical supplies. With a doctor’s note, most airlines will allow you to check supplies free of charge. Carry your prescription and a letter from your physician with you.
- Car or Train: Keep supplies in a climate-controlled area, avoid leaving them in a hot trunk or somewhere they could freeze.
- Hotels or Rentals: Make sure your room has enough clean space to set up your equipment and supplies and ask ahead if there’s a refrigerator available in case you need one.
What to Do in an Emergency
Even the best travel plans can hit a bump, so it’s important to have a backup plan in place. Before you leave, identify a dialysis center near your destination that you could visit in an emergency. Carry your dialysis prescription, recent lab results and contact numbers for your care team.
If your supplies are delayed or your equipment isn’t working as expected, having this information ready will save time and reduce stress.
How Innovative Renal Care Helps
Our team can help you plan, coordinate supplies and prepare for any “what ifs” along the way. With early planning and the right support, traveling on home hemodialysis doesn’t have to feel intimidating. It’s a chance to connect with family, see new places and continue living life fully.
Have any questions for our team? Reach out to us here.
