Essential Documents (Carry-On Only)#
- Passport (valid 6+ months beyond travel dates)
- Visa documentation (if required)
- Flight confirmations (printed and digital)
- Hotel/recovery housing confirmation
- Surgeon contact information (office, emergency, WhatsApp if applicable)
- Surgical confirmation and deposit receipts
- Letters of support (originals)
- Medical clearance documentation
- Travel insurance policy and contact numbers
- Embassy contact information for your country
- Emergency contacts list
- Copy of prescriptions (generic names, not brand names)
- Credit cards and cash in local currency
Pro tip: Email scans of all documents to yourself for backup access.
Medical Supplies (Check-In Luggage)#
Wound Care#
- Sterile gauze (enough for duration + extra)
- Medical tape
- Sterile saline packets (for making solution)
- Gentle, fragrance-free soap
- Hand sanitizer
- Disposable gloves
Medications to Bring#
- Current prescriptions in original bottles with labels
- Stool softeners
- Anti-nausea medication (OTC)
- Pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen—for supplemental use)
- Any regular medications for duration + extra days
- Melatonin or sleep aid for jet lag
Note: Pain medications and antibiotics will typically be prescribed locally. Confirm with your surgeon what will be provided versus what you should bring.
Procedure-Specific#
Vaginoplasty:
- Dilators (surgeon may provide)
- Surgical lubricant (several tubes)
- Menstrual pads
Top Surgery:
- Compression garment (surgeon may provide)
Comfort Items#
Clothing#
- Loose, comfortable pants (4-5 pairs)—elastic waist, easy on/off
- Button-front shirts or robes (4-5)
- Soft underwear (7+ pairs)
- Slip-on shoes
- Lightweight jacket or cardigan
- Comfortable sleepwear
- One outfit for travel home (loose, comfortable)
Bedding/Comfort#
- Travel pillow (inflatable or compressible)
- Light blanket or large scarf (planes are cold)
- Eye mask
- Earplugs
- Disposable bed pads (flat-pack, 10-20)
Entertainment#
- Phone/tablet with downloaded content
- E-reader with books loaded
- Headphones
- Chargers for all devices
- Universal power adapter for destination country
- Portable battery pack
Toiletries#
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Gentle body wipes (for when showering is difficult)
- Lip balm
- Moisturizer
- Any personal care items you prefer from home
- Menstrual products (even post-vaginoplasty—spotting is common)
Recovery Housing Supplies#
If staying in a hotel or rental rather than a dedicated recovery facility:
- Thermometer
- Small flashlight
- Plastic bags (for wound care disposal, wet items)
- Snacks (familiar foods from home)
- Electrolyte packets
- Instant oatmeal or easy breakfast items
- Utensils if not provided
For Your Caregiver#
- Their passport and travel documents
- Their medications
- Caregiver Quick Reference (Appendix D)
- Small notebook and pen for tracking
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Entertainment for waiting periods
Technology#
- Phone with international plan or local SIM capability
- Translation app downloaded for offline use
- Maps downloaded for offline use
- Surgeon's contact saved (including WhatsApp if they use it)
- Local emergency numbers saved
- Ride-hailing apps for destination (Grab, local Uber equivalent)
Financial Preparation#
- Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
- Debit card (notify bank of travel)
- Cash in local currency (for small purchases, taxis, tips)
- Backup payment method
- Record of what's been paid vs. balance due
Pre-Departure Checklist#
1 Week Before#
- Confirm all flights and accommodations
- Confirm surgery date and arrival instructions with surgeon
- Exchange currency or confirm ATM access
- Notify bank and credit card companies of travel
- Download offline maps and translation apps
- Charge all devices
Day Before Flight#
- Verify passport and documents are packed in carry-on
- Confirm flight status
- Set multiple alarms
- Eat well, hydrate, rest
At the Airport#
- Keep all medical documents accessible for security if needed
- Stay hydrated during flight
- Move around to prevent blood clots on long flights
- Wear compression socks for flights over 4 hours
Country-Specific Notes#
Thailand#
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (hot climate)
- Modest clothing for temples if sightseeing pre-op
- Mosquito repellent
- Power adapter (Type A, B, C, F, or O)
Mexico#
- Spanish translation app
- Bottled water plan (don't drink tap water)
- Power adapter (Type A, B—same as US)
Germany#
- Power adapter (Type C, F)
- Warmer clothing depending on season
- German health insurance documentation if required
Spain#
- Power adapter (Type C, F)
- Spanish translation app
- Siesta schedule awareness (many places close midday)
UK#
- Power adapter (Type G)
- NHS documentation if applicable
- Umbrella (always)
Return Flight Preparation#
Confirm with Surgeon Before Flying#
- Medical clearance for flight
- Documentation of recent surgery (for mobility assistance, security)
- Any special instructions for flying post-op
- Emergency contact if complications arise mid-travel
Packing for Return#
- All medications organized for flight
- Compression garments worn or accessible
- Comfortable, loose clothing
- Pillow for positioning
- Documentation of surgery for customs if asked
- Post-op care instructions accessible
At the Airport#
- Request wheelchair assistance if needed (arrange in advance)
- Request pre-boarding for extra time
- Aisle seat recommended for mobility
- Get up and walk hourly if able (blood clot prevention)
Emergency Information Template#
Complete and keep accessible:
Scroll horizontally to view all columns.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Surgeon name | |
| Surgeon phone | |
| Surgeon WhatsApp | |
| Surgical facility | |
| Facility address | |
| Hotel/housing address | |
| Hotel phone | |
| Local emergency number | |
| Embassy phone | |
| Travel insurance phone | |
| Emergency contact at home |
Pack early. You will forget things if you pack the night before. Give yourself time to make multiple trips to the store if needed.