Ambulatory surgery of inguinal hernia is gaining in popularity. While in the USA, admitting patients for inguinal hernia surgery is an exception, fewer than 10% of all such operations in Germany are performed in a day-case surgical setting. One reason for the situation observed in Germany is still a lack of acceptance by the patients. A second reason is the general nature of our health system. Surgery of the inguinal hernia can adequately be done as a standardised ambulatory procedure. We prefer conventional repair under local anaesthesia. In qualified hands, vitally dangerous complications are minimal. Careful indication, standardisation of the procedure as well as good information for and guidance of the patients provide a basis for successful day-case surgery. Indications, limitations, and risks are presented and analysed from a clinical point of view.