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