Going to hospital: what to bring

What do I need to bring with me?

In the first couple of days you will be wearing a hospital gown but after this you will need night clothes then loose-fitting normal clothes once you are able to move independently.  It is recommended that you only take the essentials when you are first admitted, then get a friend or relative to bring in a second ‘top-up’ bag after a few days.

Some suggestions for what to pack:

 Initial bag for first few days:

• Basic wash bag to include toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush/comb, flannel, soap, shaver/razor, lip salve (lips are often dry after surgery).
• Loose-fitting slippers (your feet can swell after an operation) with grips on the bottom or thick socks with grips on bottom
• Reading glasses
• Mobile phone and charger
• Books/magazines/pens
• Medication that you normally take

Second top-up bag:

• Extended wash bag to include shampoo, shower gel, deodorant, make-up
• Night clothes, dressing gown, loose-fitting day clothes
• Clean underwear
• Small hand towel
• Sanitary towels or tampons
• Fruit squashes and small snacks such as biscuits, chocolate, sweets, non-refrigerated deserts (jellies, rice puddings)
• Small amount of money for newspapers/snacks
• Address book and/or important phone numbers
• Antibacterial hand gel or wipes

More information to help you prepare for surgery: