Hospital Packing Tips for Your Surgery Day

If you’re preparing for bariatric surgery, you’re probably focusing on the big stuff like protein shakes, pre-op appointments, and your recovery plan. But don’t overlook the small details, like what to pack for the hospital.

You won’t need much, but a few smart additions to your hospital bag can make those first 24 to 48 hours more comfortable. The goal is to rest, recover, and reduce anything that makes you feel more anxious or uncomfortable. Here’s how to pack with that in mind.

Start With Comfort First

You’ll likely be groggy, a little sore, and trying to rest in a setting that isn’t exactly peaceful. A few lightweight items can help you settle in better:

Sleep mask: Lights stay on longer than you’d expect in hospitals, especially if you’re sharing a room.
Ear plugs: Helpful for hallway noise, IV pumps, or overnight vitals checks.
Lip balm: Hospital air is dry, and dehydration after surgery can make lips painfully cracked.
Sugar-free breath spray: You may not be able to use gum or mints, this is a fresh-feeling alternative.
Oral swabs: Especially flavored ones. Brushing may not be allowed right away, and swabs keep your mouth feeling clean.

Most of these take up almost no space, but they make a surprising difference in how you feel post-op.

**Clothing That Works with Your Body**

After surgery, comfort and function are all that matter. Pack loose, breathable clothing that won’t press on your stomach or require much effort to put on.

Go for:

Stretchy pajama pants or joggers with an elastic waistband
A soft zip-up hoodie (easier than pulling anything over your head)
Non-slip, slip-on shoes, think cushy slippers or slides
A pair of socks (grippy ones if you’ll be walking laps)

Pro tip: You likely won’t wear a hospital gown the whole time. Having your own layers can help you feel more like yourself.

Tech + Toiletries You’ll Actually Use

No need to bring a full beauty kit, but a few things will come in handy.

Extra-long phone charger: Hospital outlets are rarely in arm’s reach.
Dry shampoo or face wipes: You may not be up for a full shower, but freshening up can lift your mood.
Small pillow: Use it to support your neck or to hold against your abdomen if you need to cough, sneeze, or brace during the ride home.

Also helpful: a small tote or zip pouch to keep your essentials by the bed so you’re not reaching or digging through your bag.

Getting Home: Make the Ride Easier

That first car ride home is often overlooked, but it’s not always easy. You’ll want to be as comfortable and supported as possible.

Two quick tips:

Choose a car that’s easy to get in and out of. Low seats or high SUVs may feel awkward post-op.
Bring that small pillow. Placing it over your abdomen helps with bumps and protects against the seatbelt pressing too tightly.

Wear whatever you found most comfortable in the hospital, and don’t be afraid to take your time getting in and out of the car.

What You Don’t Need

It’s tempting to overpack, but best to keep it simple. Here’s what you can leave at home:

Jewelry (you’ll be asked to remove it before surgery)
Makeup or hair tools
Large bags or anything heavy
Books or work-related items you probably won’t feel like using

Focus only on what makes you feel calm, clean, and comfortable. That’s it.

Stock Your Kitchen Before Surgery

Once you’re home from the hospital, the real healing begins and having the right nutrition products on hand can make all the difference. Your body will need specific support to stay hydrated, nourished, and on track with your provider’s post-op plan.

Here’s what to have ready before surgery day:

Clear liquid options
In the first few days, you’ll likely be on a clear liquid diet. You’ll need protein, but it has to be easy on your healing stomach.

Clearly Protein is a great choice. It’s a clear, light, easy-to-digest protein drink that fits perfectly into the clear liquid stage.

Full liquid and blended meals
Once your provider moves you to full liquids, protein intake becomes even more important.

Keep High Protein Meal Replacements on hand. They’re designed for bariatric nutrition, and they can serve as a convenient, complete meal through this stage and beyond.

Build Your Supplement Foundation: Bariatric Specific Multivitamin and Calcium Citrate

Once your provider gives the go-ahead, you’ll begin taking daily supplements and it’s best to have them ready to go when you get home.

After surgery, your body can’t absorb nutrients the same way it used to. That’s why a bariatric-specific multivitamin and calcium citrate are essential for life, not just recovery. Here’s what to have on hand:

Bariatric Multivitamin (chewable for the first 3–6 months)
Choose the one that fits your surgery type or nutrient deficiency risk, for example:
Chewable Advanced Multi EA for RYGB, BPD-DS, or SADI-S
Chewable Ultra Solo with Iron for sleeve gastrectomy

These formulas provide the higher levels of nutrients like vitamins A, D, B12, and minerals like thiamin that your body needs after surgery.

Calcium Citrate
Not all calcium is created equal. After surgery, calcium citrate is the preferred form because your body produces less stomach acid.

Calcium Citrate Chewy Bites are easy to take, taste good, and help support bone, muscle, dental, and heart health.
• Take it at a different time than your multivitamin to avoid interference with iron absorption.

These two supplements are the core of your lifelong routine. For more detail on when to start and how to space your doses, check out our vitamin guide blog.

Support Hydration and Recovery

Keep a few low-sugar electrolyte packets nearby to help maintain fluid balance and energy, especially if plain water doesn’t sit well at first.

Setting yourself up with the right products ensures a smoother transition home and takes one more thing off your plate during recovery.

Here’s the Takeaway

Packing for your hospital stay doesn’t need to be stressful. The right items can help you rest easier, stay comfortable, and feel a little more at ease in an unfamiliar setting. Prioritize: