Travelling on peritoneal dialysis

Peritoneal dialysis equipment can be put in the boot of your car, making nearby road trips pretty easy. If you normally use automated peritoneal dialysis (APD), you may choose to switch to continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) bags while you’re on holiday, to make things easier.

For short trips, you should do a session before and after your journey. At your destination, choose a quiet and clean space to do your dialysis. You should have no problems if you treat the bag changes with the same care as you would at home.

For trips longer than seven days, you can arrange for peritoneal dialysis bags to be delivered to your holiday destination. Just make sure you do this well ahead of time.

You’ll usually have to take the other small pieces of equipment with you still. A coat hanger can improvise as a hook for your bags. As long as you have access to hand cleansers and can find a quiet, safe space, the bags can be changed while travelling.

A number of countries can provide you with dialysis supplies, sometimes even free of charge. Usually this will only be the CAPD bags. Either way, you still must check with your dialysis healthcare team or dialysis company before you plan your trip. They’ll be able to provide you with detailed information.

On your trip, it’s important to bring along a medical summary and extra supplies, in case your return is delayed. Some clinics may also give you antibiotics in case of peritonitis.

Due to altered pressure in an aircraft, large volumes of peritoneal dialysis fluid can make you feel uncomfortable – so consider flying ‘dry’. This is something you’ll need to discuss and plan with your dialysis healthcare team.

You should also take a one-day supply of peritoneal dialysis fluid on your flight, in case the delivery to your destination is late, or your flight is delayed. You’ll need to notify your airline of this and ask if there is a charge. For example, Qantas allows up to 100 kilograms of medical equipment, but you must organise the quantity with them beforehand.

Each airline will have different restrictions, so check their specific luggage allowance and conditions. Pack all dialysis equipment in your check-in luggage.

Finally, check the customs regulations in the country you are visiting. If you’re carrying dialysis equipment, ensure you carry a treatment letter from your doctor with your current health condition and medication list.

If you’re still unsure about travelling on peritoneal dialysis, Kidney Health Australia is here to help. Please call us on 1800 454 363 for further information.