Packing for our trip to Mayo Clinic. What to bring?

Good walking shoes, coordinating clothing in layers, cross body bag large enough for papers and reading materials Do you have hotel reservations? We are here now and expect temperatures to be cooler this week so plan accordingly.

I agree with everything susan2018 wrote! I have always over-packed, by at least several days, that way I didn't worry so much in case I needed to stay longer. It is nice to take a couple things that are comforting to you; maybe a pillow or a blanket, or favorite slippers. Something that when you come back to the room you can put on, or to help you rest and relax.

@mira24 Yes. Comfy clothes to lounge in and extra in case your stay is extended! Remember masks and extra days medications.

I would pack extra, just in case.

After several trips to Mayo, we bought a small suit case on wheels. We use it to carry appointment guides, meds, tablets, chargers for phones and tablets, water bottles, notebook and pens to write down what the doctors tell you, etc.

Such a good question, @maryvallis512. I've added this discussion to the Visiting Mayo Clinic group as well. You may other discussions in the Visiting Mayo Clinic group to be useful as you prepare for your trip. See all discussions here:

- Visiting Mayo Clinic https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/traveling-to-mayo-clinic/

There are some discussions about how to prepare, visiting Mayo Clinic during COVID, tips for getting started with a new specialist and much more. I encourage you to browse the discussions there. In addition to all the suggestions made in this thread, I also recommend that you download the Mayo Clinic app to your smart phone. It can help keep things organized for appointments, answering questions and finding things. Learn more here: https://www.mayoclinic.org/apps/mayo-clinic

Hi @maryvallis512, I wanted to check in to see how you are doing? Do you have more information and a treatment plan now?

Hi! I’m prepping for my Rochester trip towards the end of February. I want to make a comprehensive list of everything I’ll need for the trip, so I can purchase anything I might specifically need. For reference, I’m seeing mostly Neurology while there.Is there anything that helped anyone that’s not on the main Mayo packing list? I’ll be there for almost 2 weeks.Thanks!

splashofhues @splashofhues

I reviewed the packing list and looks very helpful. Are you flying in or driving? Staying downtown at hotel connected via subway? Some of those questions determine how much winter clothes you need.

One suggestion, dress in layers, so can adjust to weather. So far this winter has been very mild, but who knows what Feb will bring.

For other people, here is link to Mayo suggested packing list:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/patient-visitor-guide/preparing-for-your-visit/your-packing-checklist
Laurie

@splashofhues Hello! That Mayo list is pretty accurate. I bring a cell charger with me and make sure I have a spare at my hotel. Be sure to have clothes that are easy on easy off for tests, and this includes shoes. If you wear compression socks, I would not recommend wearing them on a day that you have an ECG scheduled as they need access down to your ankles. I always make sure to bring more than enough of my current meds to get me through the planned stay. I bring my own water to my appointments to keep hydrated and for taking meds. (I bring water bottles from home as I drive) Some hotels offer water bottles free and some sell it and it is pricey. Ask if your hotel has laundry facilities as you could potentially not need as much clothing. When I was there for long stays, I brought my own laundry supplies. Some hotel shuttle services will drop you off at restaurants or shopping, and pick you up, ask ahead. Free shuttle services are great for pick up and drop off at the door, and no parking fees. Some hotels have free underground parking, and this is a bonus in winter. Most downtown hotels charge a hefty daily underground parking fee. Hope your stay goes smoothly!