Traveling is an exciting opportunity to explore new places, experience different cultures, and create lasting memories. For individuals managing chronic kidney disease (CKD), however, travel can present unique dietary challenges. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip, setting sail on a cruise, or traveling abroad, careful meal planning is essential to maintaining kidney health. By following practical eating tips and preparing ahead, you can enjoy your journey without compromising your well-being.*

Eating Well on Road Trips and Camping Adventures

Road trips and camping excursions often involve long hours on the road and limited access to fresh, kidney-friendly foods. To ensure you stay on track with your kidney diet, pack a cooler with nutritious options that help reduce the temptation of fast food. 

Some excellent alternatives to high-sodium processed meats include:

• Fresh-cooked meats, 
• Unsalted canned tuna, and 
• Low-sodium deli meats.

Instead of traditional road trip snacks like potato chips, opt for unsalted pretzels or low-sodium crackers. Staying hydrated is also crucial, but if you’re on a fluid-restricted diet, be mindful that salty foods can increase your thirst.

When meal prepping for camping, food safety should be a priority. Always wash your hands, use hand sanitizer, and store perishable foods properly to avoid spoilage. Avoid packing foods high in phosphorus, potassium, or excess protein—depending on your dietary restrictions. 

Navigating Cruise Buffets and Theme Park Treats

Cruises offer an abundance of food options, making it easy to overindulge. To maintain your kidney-friendly diet:

• Select fresh fruits, vegetables, and salads at buffets. 
• Include a protein source in every meal, but avoid breaded or sauce-heavy dishes that may contain high sodium levels. 
• When booking your cruise, notify the cruise line about your dietary needs in advance—many are willing to accommodate requests for low-sodium meals. 

Packing healthy snacks can also help you stay on track between meals.

A day at an amusement park can work up an appetite, and typical park food tends to be high in sodium and phosphorus. To avoid unhealthy options, consider packing a cooler and storing it in a locker or your car. If eating in the park:

• Opt for grilled proteins like skinless chicken or a plain hamburger instead of hot dogs or breaded items, and 
• Choose a bagel or dinner roll over fries, and drink water instead of soda. 

If your only available options are high in sodium, balance your intake by making healthier choices at your other meals that day.

Staying Kidney-Conscious While Traveling Abroad

Exploring international cuisines is one of the highlights of traveling abroad, but it can be challenging to navigate dietary restrictions in an unfamiliar setting. To ensure you make kidney-friendly choices:

• Bring a food-related phrase book or an app that helps with translation when ordering meals, 
• Research the local cuisine beforehand, and 
• Consult with your renal dietitian to create a list of foods to enjoy and those to avoid.

Preparation is key to having a stress-free and enjoyable trip. Before departing, identify restaurants that can accommodate your dietary needs and consider packing some staple snacks for emergencies. By planning and making mindful choices, you can savor new experiences while maintaining your kidney health.

*DaVita Kidney Care. (n.d.). Eating Tips for Travelers with Kidney Disease. Retrieved from https://www.davita.com/education/ckd-life/travel/eating-tips-for-travelers-with-kidney-disease 

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