The Ultimate PD Go-Bag Checklist for Caregivers

You know that feeling when you’re halfway out the door and suddenly panic-think, “wait, did I pack everything?” If you’re caring for someone on peritoneal dialysis, that little jolt of panic hits different – because “everything” isn’t just a phone charger and snacks anymore.

A well-stocked go-bag is one of the simplest ways to take that panic off the table. Build it once, restock it as needed, and you’ll always be ready – whether it’s a routine appointment, an unplanned hospital visit, or just a long day out.

Here’s a real, usable PD go-bag checklist for caregivers to get you started.

The Ultimate PD Go-Bag Checklist for Caregivers

Medical Essentials

This is the non-negotiable core of your go-bag:

• Extra dialysis supplies (in case a scheduled exchange gets delayed)
• Masks, anti-bacterial wipes and hand sanitizer
• Exit site care supplies (dressing, cleaning solution, gloves)
• A copy of the current medication list
• Insurance card and ID
• Emergency contact card (nephrologist, dialysis center, care coordinator)
• A spare PD Flow Belt™ – if it needs a wash or gets misplaced mid-day, having a backup on hand means one less thing to worry about
• A Kink Free PD™ for overnight stays – if a hospital visit or trip runs longer than expected, you’ll want the same nighttime setup you rely on at home, not a rough night on top of everything else

Comfort Items

Because appointments and hospital visits are rarely quick, and comfort matters more than people expect:

• A phone charger (a portable battery pack is even better)
• Water bottle and a few shelf-stable snacks
• A light blanket or sweater – clinical settings are always colder than expected
• Something to pass the time: a book, headphones, a tablet

Documentation That Actually Saves Time

Nothing slows down a visit like fumbling for information under pressure:

• A written summary of recent symptoms or changes, if relevant
• Recent lab results or discharge paperwork, if you have them
• A running list of current questions for the care team – it’s easy to forget them in the moment

The “Just in Case” Items People Forget

• A change of clothes for the patient, in case of a longer stay than planned
• A spare bag for used supplies
• Cash or a backup payment method, in case cards aren’t accepted somewhere
• A small notebook and pen – sometimes writing things down beats relying on memory mid-conversation

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Make It Yours

Every PD caregiver checklist looks a little different depending on your specific routine, your loved one’s needs, and how far you typically travel from home. The goal isn’t to carry everything all the time – it’s to build a bag once so you’re not reassembling it from scratch every single time, especially on the days you’re already running on empty.

A tip that helps: keep the bag pre-packed and by the door, and restock it right after each use rather than waiting until the next time you need it. Future-you, mid-panic at the door, will be very grateful.

If you’re the one holding it all together for someone else, don’t forget: you deserve care and preparation too, not just the person you’re caring for. A go-bag is one small way to make hard days a little more manageable – for both of you.