For many people starting dialysis, one of the first questions they ask is: can dialysis patients travel?

It is an understandable concern. Treatment schedules, clinic appointments and health considerations can make travel feel more complicated than it once was. Many people worry that dialysis means giving up holidays, postponing plans or putting parts of life on hold.

The reality is often very different.

With the right planning and support, many dialysis patients continue to travel, visit family and enjoy meaningful experiences. Fiona’s story is a powerful reminder that while kidney disease may change the way you travel, it does not have to stop you from travelling altogether.

When Life Changes Unexpectedly

Fiona’s journey with kidney disease began completely unexpectedly.

A keen runner, she was training for a marathon when she noticed swollen ankles and extreme exhaustion. Shortly afterwards, while pregnant, she was diagnosed with a kidney condition that would eventually lead to kidney failure.

For years, she balanced declining kidney function with raising three young children. Fatigue became a daily challenge, yet much of what she was experiencing remained invisible to those around her.

As her condition progressed, she eventually started dialysis and began preparing for a kidney transplant.

Like many patients, she faced uncertainty about what the future would look like.

Life After Dialysis and Transplant

In 2017, Fiona received a kidney transplant thanks to the extraordinary generosity of a close friend who turned out to be an excellent match.

What followed was a period of renewal.

She learned to swim despite previously being afraid of deep water. She became involved in triathlon, qualified as a triathlon coach and embraced challenges she never imagined taking on before her illness.

While her story is not specifically about travel, it highlights something many dialysis patients can relate to: the importance of continuing to live life despite health challenges.

Kidney disease may require adjustments, but it does not mean giving up on experiences altogether.

Can Dialysis Patients Travel Safely?

The simple answer is yes.

Many people successfully travel while receiving dialysis treatment every year.

Some travel to see family and friends. Others take holidays abroad or visit destinations they have always wanted to explore. The key is ensuring that treatment arrangements are organised before travelling.

For patients considering travel while on dialysis, preparation is often what transforms anxiety into confidence. Understanding how to organise treatment, choose the right destination and plan ahead can make all the difference. Read our guide to travelling safely while on dialysis to learn more.

Knowing where treatment will take place, understanding your schedule, and having support in place can make a significant difference to your overall experience.

Travelling on Dialysis Requires Planning

Unlike most travellers, people receiving dialysis need to think about treatment before booking every part of their trip.

This is where planning becomes important.

Arranging dialysis sessions in advance, choosing destinations with suitable clinics, and building travel plans around treatment schedules can help reduce stress and create peace of mind.

Many patients who travel regularly say that preparation is what gives them the confidence to enjoy their holiday.

Whether you are travelling within your own country or arranging dialysis abroad, taking the time to plan ahead can make the experience feel far more manageable.

Living on Dialysis Does Not Mean Giving Up Life

Today, Fiona is back on dialysis and waiting for another kidney transplant. Despite the uncertainty that comes with being on a transplant waiting list, she continues to look forward rather than stand still.

Her story is a reminder that living on dialysis does not mean giving up goals, experiences or future plans.

Life may look different.

Travel may require more preparation.

Some things may take a little longer to organise.

But meaningful experiences can still be part of everyday life.

Listen to Fiona’s Full Story

This article only touches on some of the experiences Fiona shared. In the full podcast episode, she speaks openly about her kidney disease diagnosis, dialysis, transplantation, raising a young family while managing chronic illness, and her determination to keep moving forward despite uncertainty.

If her story resonates with you, listen to the full episode below to hear Fiona’s journey in her own words.

▶ Listen to the full podcast episode on Spotify

Conclusion

So, can dialysis patients travel? Absolutely.

Travelling on dialysis may require more planning than it once did, but many patients continue to enjoy holidays, visit loved ones and explore new destinations every year.

Fiona’s story shows that kidney disease and dialysis do not have to define what is possible. While treatment may change how you approach travel, it does not mean putting life on hold.

With the right preparation, support, and confidence, travel while on dialysis can remain an achievable part of life.

At bookdialysis.com, we believe dialysis should never be the reason you stop making plans. Whether you are considering your first trip or looking into dialysis abroad, we are here to help make travelling with dialysis feel simpler, safer and more achievable.