Hospital packing list: Home Preparation (Before You Go)

Do this 1–2 weeks ahead to minimise post-op risks:

Walking aids: Crutches or walker (get assessed by physio; bring your own if possible).
Shower setup: Shower chair/bench + handheld shower head. Sit to wash for the first 4+ weeks.
Bathroom safety: Grab bars/handrails.
Toilet: Raised toilet seat if advised.
Meals: Stock easy meals and snacks.
Swelling & clot prevention (especially useful post-surgery or for any travel): Consider compression garments and/or a battery-powered system for legs and hips.
2XU long leg compression trousers (full-leg compression tights for recovery and swelling control): Shop on official UK 2XU site
Compressport calf compression (sleeves for targeted lower-leg support): Shop calf compression sleeves on official Compressport site
Pulsio battery powered leg and hip compression system (cord-free, portable intermittent pneumatic compression with hip attachment option for targeted relief and circulation): Shop Pulsio Compression PRO (with hip options) on official UK site or main Pulsio Compression
Ice/cold therapy: A targeted hip ice pack can help manage swelling and pain at home.
Physiolab hip ice pack (part of their cryo-compression hip package for post-op recovery): Shop Physiolab Hip Package on official site

Pack light—a small wheeled cabin-style bag is ideal.

Essentials (Documents & Health):
• ID, appointment letter, pre-op paperwork
• Medication list + allergies note
• Your own medications

Clothing & Footwear:

Loose pyjamas or tracksuit bottoms, front-opening top
Non-slip slippers or supportive slip-on shoes with good grip (no laces or fiddly fastenings). The North Face ThermoBall™️ V Traction Mules are popular for their durable traction outsoles, warmth, and easy on/off design—great for hospital floors and early rehab:
• Men’s: Shop The North Face Men’s ThermoBall™️ V Traction Mules on official UK site
• Women’s: Shop The North Face Women’s ThermoBall™️ V Traction Mules on official UK site

Comfort & Entertainment:

Phone + charger
Book, Kindle, or headphones
Ozlo noise cancelling sleeping earphones (ultra-comfortable Sleepbuds designed for side-sleeping with noise-masking to help you rest better in hospital or at home during recovery): Shop Ozlo Sleepbuds on official UK site
Glasses, hearing aids, eye mask, earplugs
Other:
Small amount of cash/card

What NOT to Bring

Valuables or large bags

Additional Advice

Arrange transport and help for the first night home.
Discuss your specific needs (including any of the above compression, cooling, or footwear items) with your pre-assessment team or physio, as hospital protocols vary.
For longer journeys or ongoing swelling management, the compression options above can be particularly helpful.

This keeps the list practical while giving you direct UK manufacturer/official links for the suggested recovery aids.

Always double-check sizing, current pricing, availability, colour options, and suitability (especially grip on hospital floors) with your surgical team.

Wishing you a smooth surgery and strong recovery.

– Mr Mark Norton