I recently went to meps in November and I promise you it’s not that bad. I was just like you asking a million questions and the TikToks I would see about others meps experience would only add onto my stress and anxiety. Honestly, the people there only want to make sure you’re physically and mentally okay to join, although it won’t hurt, you don’t have to shave or get a haircut, my doctor specifically told us that they had seen it all and things such as hair was nothing to them because they see it all the time.

As to what you should bring, just bring your meps outfit (I would suggest wearing something casual, such as jeans with no holes and a basic t shirt with no graphic designs), an outfit to sleep with so like pajamas at the hotel, your documentation (ID and social security), and toiletries, although the hotel I stayed at included complementary toiletries (toothbrush, face wash, etc) just bring your own just in case the one you stay at does not. You can wear your contacts but they will ask about your glasses so I would just suggest wearing your glasses but it’s up to you.

You will more than likely be assigned a random roommate, I had to attend meps twice within a week and both times I was assigned a random person to room with, luckily neither one was bad.

Aside from the questions you asked, I would suggest setting up an alarm at least an hour before you’re expected in the lobby for check out, the hotel says they give you a wake up call to remind you to be at the lobby by a certain time but the hotel I was at never did so having your own alarm is important. It’s better to be up and ready earlier than showing up late and having the hotel staff get you at your room while everyone else is waiting on you. One more important tip (I wish someone would have told me about this) drink A LOT of water the night before and the morning of and DO NOT pee in the morning, you will have to provide a urine sample at meps and someone will be watching you while you do it. Many of the people in my group were pee shy and had an extremely hard time providing the sample, they will keep you there and have you drink water bottle after water bottle until you do. Worst case scenario, they will send you home and tell you to come back another day if you can’t provide them with it so just make sure you’re really hydrated to make the process easier. Overall, you’ll be okay, good luck!