Packing list for a rehab stay
Approval letter, medical reports, sportswear and swimwear: the list for three weeks or more at a rehabilitation clinic or spa, between therapy and free time.
Rehab stay
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Combine it with a second list
A trip is often more than one list. Add a second one: matching sections are folded together and nothing appears twice.
The papers from your insurer and the clinic
When you arrive, the clinic asks for the paperwork first. Put together a folder: the approval letter from your pension or health insurer, the letter from the clinic, your health insurance card and ID card. Add medical reports, letters from your doctors, X-rays and your current medication plan, so the team there knows where you stand.
Bring your medication for the first few days, even if the clinic provides it later. An allergy card and your vaccination record help if a treatment comes up. If you are exempt from co-payments, the proof goes in the folder too. Whatever else the clinic asks for is usually in its invitation letter.
Clothes for exercise, therapy and free time
Unlike in hospital, you are on the move a lot in rehab. Exercise classes, strength training, water aerobics and walks are often on the schedule several times a day. So pack two or three sets of sportswear, trainers with light soles for the gym, a tracksuit and swimwear with pool sliders and a bathrobe.
For the time between appointments comfortable clothes are enough, plus sturdy shoes and a rain jacket for trips into the area. Slippers are nicer than trainers on long clinic corridors. A laundry bag keeps worn clothes apart, and travel laundry wash helps if you do not want to visit the laundry room every day.
Three weeks or more: making good use of free time
A rehab stay usually lasts at least three weeks, and a spa cure about as long. Between treatments there is time that can feel long. Books, magazines, a tablet with headphones, a pack of cards or a notebook help through quiet afternoons. A daypack and an umbrella make trips into the area more comfortable.
Many people also use the weeks to change habits. A notebook for the physiotherapy exercises helps you keep them up at home. Also write down what you want to ask in the final consultation, so nothing slips your mind.
What people forget for rehab
Often missing are a swimming cap, which some pools require, swimming goggles, a large towel for the exercise mat and a bottle for the day. If you use supports, insoles, a walking aid or a hearing aid, bring them with spare batteries, as the clinic usually does not provide them.
Because you are away for several weeks, the before leaving template is worth it for post, plants and heating at home. For chargers and tablet, combine electronics as well. Matching sections are folded together and nothing appears twice.
Frequently asked questions
What do I need to take to a rehab clinic?
Above all the paperwork: the approval letter from your pension or health insurer, the letter from the clinic, your health insurance card, medical reports and your medication plan. Add sportswear, swimwear and comfortable clothes for about a week, because you can do laundry there. Many clinics send their own list with the invitation. Compare it with this one, since the clinic knows best what it requires.
How is packing for rehab different from packing for hospital?
In hospital you usually stay a few days, often in bed, and mainly need pyjamas, toiletries and papers. In rehab you stay several weeks and are active: exercise classes, the pool, walks and free time. That is why this list includes sportswear, trainers and swimwear. For a hospital stay there is the separate hospital bag template.
How many clothes do I need for three weeks of rehab?
Clothes for one week are usually enough. Many rehabilitation and spa clinics have washing machines and dryers for guests, and some offer a laundry service as well. Ask beforehand what your clinic provides. Plan two sets of sportswear, because you often have therapy several times a day, and one outfit for a trip into town.
Do I have to pay anything towards a rehab stay?
Many rehab stays come with a daily co-payment, and how much and for how long depends on who pays for the stay and on your situation. If you are exempt from co-payments, bring proof of that. What exactly applies to you is in your approval letter, or your pension or health insurer can tell you. A little cash for the spa tax, drinks and trips is handy anyway.
How it works
“Start with this list” opens the template – once you have signed in with your email address.
Add more templates, such as “Before leaving” for the water, the heating and the plants. Nothing appears twice.
Create the list, tick it off, archive it after the trip – and pack it again next time.
Good to know
- Can I change the list?
- Yes. Your list is yours: add, rename, move and delete items. The template stays as it is.
- Does it cost anything?
- No. No subscription, no ads. All you need is an email address, no password.