The rise of winter dialysis holidays

Winter dialysis travel offers many different possibilities, from warmer destinations and European city breaks to Christmas markets, cruises and longer journeys. For people receiving dialysis, choosing a destination is only one part of the process. Treatment availability, travel dates, accommodation and transport also need to fit together.

What did the ABTA research find?

Recent research from ABTA (The Association of British Travel Agents) revealed a notable surge in winter holidays. Almost a third of respondents expressed intentions to travel abroad this winter. The data indicated that 29% of those surveyed were planning a winter getaway, marking a 16% increase in bookings compared to the previous year.

Among the preferred types of winter holidays, escaping to warmer climates for winter sun emerged as the most popular choice at 31%, city breaks at 22%, and UK-based getaways at 14%. Other favoured options included ski holidays (9%), cruises (5%), visits to Christmas markets (4%), and Northern Lights excursions (4%).

Notably, the Caribbean and Asia experienced a heightened interest in winter travel, with bookings to the Caribbean surging by 21% and to Asia by 17%. The report also highlighted Cape Verde as a destination witnessing robust growth in winter sun seekers.

In terms of age groups, individuals aged 25 to 34 stood out as the people most inclined to embark on a winter holiday this year, comprising 36% of respondents. The second most likely group to do so were individuals over 65, accounting for 33% of respondents.

Thinking of going on a winter trip soon? Check out our recommendations in our Winter Destination Guide or browse through our platform, with destinations in over 64 countries to choose from.

What does winter travel mean for dialysis travellers?

Winter can offer a wide range of travel experiences. Some people prefer a warm coastal destination, while others enjoy quieter cities, festive markets or cultural trips outside the busiest summer months.

For people receiving dialysis, the planning process can begin by identifying destinations where suitable treatment may be available. Our winter destinations guide for dialysis travellers brings together snowy retreats, European cities and warmer escapes.

Readers who are beginning to consider an international trip can follow our cornerstone guide, Travelling Abroad on Dialysis: A Step by Step Guide. It explains how to approach the journey in clear stages.

Once a destination and possible dates have been identified, our second cornerstone article, Booking Dialysis Abroad: What Patients Should Know, explains treatment requests, clinic confirmation and the information a receiving clinic may require.

Winter destination ideas

–Winter sun in Spain

Spain offers a combination of coastal destinations, islands and cultural city breaks. The Canary Islands may appeal to travellers seeking milder winter weather, while Madrid and Barcelona provide museums, architecture and seasonal city experiences.

Read Dialysis Holidays in Spain: What Patients Need to Know for destination and treatment-planning information.

-A quieter winter break in Greece

Athens and other parts of Greece can provide a different experience outside the summer season, with fewer crowds and more time for cultural sightseeing.

Our guide, How Can I Plan Dialysis in Greece?, connects destination choices with practical dialysis arrangements.

-A winter city break in Rome

Rome’s historic neighbourhoods, museums and landmarks can be explored throughout the year. Winter may offer a quieter alternative to the city’s busiest visitor periods.

Explore Dialysis in Italy: Rome’s Hidden Gems and Where to Travel with Confidence.

-A long-haul trip to Singapore

For travellers interested in Asia, Singapore offers an organised urban environment, public transport, cultural attractions and year-round warmth.

Read Holiday Dialysis in Singapore: A Complete Travel Guide for a patient-inspired perspective.

-A peaceful winter escape to Mauritius

Mauritius can appeal to travellers looking for warmer weather, coastal scenery and a slower holiday pace.

Our complete guide to dialysis on Mauritius explains how treatment and the wider trip can be organised together.

Start with treatment planning

A winter holiday may involve popular travel dates, limited clinic availability and seasonal transport schedules. Beginning early can provide more time to explore clinic options and understand what information is needed.

For a broader introduction, read Holiday Dialysis: Everything You Need to Know to Travel Safely and With Confidence.

Patients who are still deciding whether a trip feels possible may also find Can You Travel on Dialysis? What You Need to Know helpful.

FAQs

–Can people receiving dialysis take a winter holiday?

Many people receiving dialysis continue to travel. Each person’s circumstances and treatment requirements are different, so suitable dialysis arrangements need to be explored before departure.

-Should dialysis be arranged before booking flights?

It is helpful to check treatment availability and understand the confirmation process before making non-refundable travel arrangements.

-Is winter sun better than a city break?

There is no single option that suits everyone. The right choice depends on personal preferences, journey length, weather, accessibility, clinic availability and the type of holiday someone wants to experience.

-Where should a first-time dialysis traveller begin?

Start by understanding the complete process through the step-by-step guide to travelling abroad on dialysis. You can then explore suitable destinations and learn how booking dialysis abroad works.

Travel information notice: Destination details, entry requirements and clinic availability can change. Discuss individual treatment or travel questions with your renal team.