I made a list as well, but reality is, things are different with everyone. Eventually I rolled with the punches and came out fine. However, there are two things that saved my life: Povidone-iodine & Antibiotics.
A must-have in my opinion. I went through the Povidone-iodine rather quick as I smeared it three times a day on the wound, including the dilators. This prevented further infection, as an infection has started when I came back home.
For dilation I use coconut oil. Better than lube, and doesn't hurt as much as KY does.
Oh, and a Netflix subscription was very welcome!