The most important thing
Your passport. Without it, you cannot travel. Pack it first, double-check it the night before, and triple-check it on the way out the door. Everything else is replaceable.
1 Documents & ID
Pack these in your carry-on, never in checked luggage.
Passport (and a copy stored separately)Take a photo of the photo page, email it to yourself, and store a printed copy in a different bag.
Driver's license or other photo IDRequired for the airline at boarding.
Travel insurance card or policy numberIf you purchased complication or travel insurance through us, screenshot the policy summary.
Emergency contact listNames + phone numbers of two people, written on paper. Phones die.
Some U.S. cash ($50–$100)Tipping the driver, small purchases. Mexican pesos not required — everywhere we go takes cards or USD.
2 Medications & medical info
Bring everything in original bottles. Mexican customs and airlines both prefer this.
All your current prescription medicationsIn original labeled bottles. Bring at least a 10-day supply, more if you take maintenance meds.
Written list of all medications + dosagesEasier to hand to your surgical team than pulling out bottles.
CPAP machine + mask + hose (if you use one)Your surgical team needs this for safe anesthesia. Pack the wall adapter too.
Glucometer + test strips (if diabetic)
Inhaler (if you use one)
Compression socks for the flight homeReduces blood clot risk after surgery. Knee-high, mild compression (15–20 mmHg) is plenty.
3 Clothing
Loose, comfortable, easy to put on without bending. Tijuana weather is mild year-round — think layers.
2–3 sets of loose clothesDrawstring waists, sweatpants, oversized t-shirts. Avoid anything with a tight band across your abdomen.
Slip-on shoesBending over to tie laces is uncomfortable for the first week post-op.
Light jacket or zip-up hoodieHospital and rooms can run cool.
Underwear (5+ pairs)
Pajamas or loose sleep clothes
Comfortable bra (no underwire) for the trip home
4 Toiletries & personal care
The hospital provides basics. Bring what you actually use day-to-day.
Toothbrush + toothpaste
Deodorant
Lip balm (chapstick)Anesthesia and IV fluids dry out your lips. You will use this constantly post-op.
Hand sanitizer + tissues
Hair tie / brush / comb
Glasses + case (skip contacts during recovery)
Feminine hygiene products if needed
5 Tech & chargers
Mexico uses the same plug shape as the U.S. — no adapter required for U.S. travelers.
Phone + charging cable + wall adapterYour driver will text you on arrival. Pack the charger in carry-on, not checked.
Portable battery pack (optional but helpful)
Headphones / earbudsFor the flight and for your room. Hospital nights can be long.
A book, e-reader, or tabletWi-Fi is solid at our facility, but a downloaded book or show is a backup worth having.
6 Recovery comfort items
Small things that make the first 48 hours after surgery noticeably nicer.
Small pillow to hug on the flight homeHold it against your abdomen during turbulence and when you cough or sneeze.
Sugar-free gum or hard candyHelps with dry mouth from anesthesia. Skip after surgery once you start fluids.
Reusable water bottleSipping water constantly post-op is critical. Easier with your own bottle than tiny cups.
Eye mask + earplugs (optional)
A small notebook + penFor tracking how much water you drink, notes from your surgeon, questions for follow-up.
7 What NOT to bring
Save weight in your bag and trouble at the border.
Leave these at home
- Anything sharp or aerosol — razors, large scissors, full-size hairspray cans. TSA will confiscate.
- Valuables and expensive jewelry. The hospital is secure but anything you don't need, leave at home.
- Heavy snacks or large food items. You will be on a liquid diet immediately post-op — no use for them.
- Large suitcases. One medium checked bag + a carry-on is plenty for the typical 4–5 day stay.
- Recreational substances of any kind. Including marijuana, even in legal U.S. states. Mexican border laws are strict and unforgiving.
- Stress. Easier said than done — but truly, we have you. Trust the process and the team.