Medical Recovery Travel Packing List

Traveling during recovery? This medically-informed packing list includes essential documents, prescriptions, comfort aids, hygiene items, and mobility tools—plus caregiver supplies. Designed to help you travel safely and comfortably post-surgery, illness, or treatment. Includes a printable version.

⚕️ Comfort and Care Essentials for Healing on the Go

📄 Medical Documentation & Info

  • Doctor’s travel clearance letter
  • Copies of medical records
  • List of medications & instructions
  • Emergency contact card
  • Insurance and ID cards

🚑 Medications & Supplies

  • All prescription medications (in original bottles)
  • Daily pill organizer
  • Cold/hot packs (gel or disposable)
  • Medical devices (braces, slings, etc.)
  • Wound care supplies (bandages, ointments)

🪜 Comfort & Mobility Aids

  • Travel pillow & lumbar support
  • Compression socks or wraps
  • Lightweight blanket or shawl
  • Walker, cane, crutches (if needed)
  • Reacher or grabber tool

🚿 Hygiene & Personal Care

  • Unscented wipes & dry shampoo
  • Antibacterial soap & hand sanitizer
  • Toiletries for sensitive skin
  • Disposable gloves & masks
  • Incontinence or sanitary items

🏠 Recovery Environment Tools

  • Portable fan or humidifier
  • Extension cord or power strip
  • Adjustable bed wedge or cushion
  • Easy-open water bottle & snacks
  • Entertainment: tablet, books, or music

🛂 Air Travel-Specific Needs

  • TSA-friendly clear bag for meds & devices
  • Pre-board request (notify airline in advance)
  • Neck pillow and extra face mask
  • Seat cushion for added support
  • Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs

🏨 Outpatient Recovery at Hotel/Airbnb

  • Extra towels and linens
  • Meal delivery app or grocery service access
  • Do Not Disturb signage or card
  • Bath mat or anti-slip surface
  • Trash bags and sanitizing spray

🤝 Optional Caregiver Packing

  • Copy of patient care routine
  • Notebook for tracking meds/symptoms
  • Extra clothes & toiletries
  • Portable charger or power bank
  • Easy snacks and hydration items
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