What can you take (or not take) into hospitals these days?

What can you take (or not take) into hospitals these days?

Here’s a clear, practical summary of what you can take into hospital with you these days in the UK.

✅ Items you can bring (as a patient)

Essentials

Your medications (in original packaging) — this includes prescribed drugs, inhalers, eye drops, creams etc. – staff need to know what you’re taking.

Admission documents (letters, consent forms, info from GP).

Clothing & comfort

Nightwear, comfortable day clothes, underwear, dressing gown, slippers/non-slip shoes.

Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, shaving items.

Towel/face cloth (some trusts ask you to bring these).

Personal aids

Glasses/contact lenses, hearing aids, dentures.

Mobility aids you use (walking stick, frame, wheelchair, crutches).

Entertainment & electronics

Mobile phone/tablet and charger (may be useful for calls, entertainment).

Books, magazines, puzzles, notepad/pen.

Other useful items

Items of religious or spiritual importance.

Small amount of money for newspapers, refreshments, telephone charges.

Tissues and wet wipes.

🚫 Items generally not to bring

Hospitals advise not bringing these:

• Flowers or plants
• Large amounts of cash, valuables or jewellery (you can hand them in for safekeeping but hospital won’t be responsible for loss).
• Alcohol or tobacco products
• Electrical equipment (TV/radio) — some trusts restrict this unless checked for safety.
• Food that needs refrigeration/preparing (infection control and safety).

Note: Some mental health or specific wards (e.g. psychiatric units) have stricter safety rules (e.g. sharp objects or recording devices may be banned) — always check the specific ward policy ahead of time.

🧠 Tips

• Label your belongings with your name — helps prevent loss or mix-ups.
• If in doubt, ask the hospital or ward staff what’s allowed — policies can vary slightly between hospitals.
• For long stays, make sure you’re comfortable but keep luggage small due to limited storage space.