What to pack for a back lift trip: the checklist

Documents

Passport (six months' validity), e-Visa if your nationality needs one, the written surgical plan and quote, your medication list and any relevant reports, recent blood tests if done at home, travel insurance details, hotel and transfer confirmations, emergency contacts. Photograph everything to a cloud folder.

Clothing that works with a vest and arm rules

Zip-front hoodies or cardigans, button-front shirts, loose trousers with elastic waists, slip-on shoes (you can't bend well with a vest on), a long loose robe for the hotel, soft cotton camisoles to wear under the vest. Dark colours for the first week. Nothing that pulls over the head.

The recovery kit patients forget

Two firm pillows or a wedge for supported sleeping; a long charging cable; a reusable water bottle; dry shampoo (hair-washing overhead is off for a while); unscented wipes; entertainment downloaded; a notebook for questions; earplugs and a sleep mask; a small pillow to hug when coughing.

What not to bring

Nicotine in any form — the risks article explains why; undeclared supplements (fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo thin blood — stopped two weeks before); heavy luggage you'll have to lift; tight tops for the flight; and plans for sightseeing in week one. The journey page shows what each day actually holds.